PfostenRiegelSystemen

PfostenRiegelSystemen, commonly translated as post and rail systems, are a structural building technique primarily used in timber framing for constructing walls, facades, and roofs. This method involves the use of vertical posts (Pfosten) and horizontal beams or rails (Riegel) to create a framework. The posts typically serve as the primary vertical supports, while the rails connect these posts, providing stability and forming the structural grid.

The infill material, which forms the actual wall or facade surface, is then placed within the bays created by the post and rail structure. Historically, this infill could be anything from wattle and daub to bricks, stone, or more recently, glass panels. This modularity allows for a great deal of flexibility in design and the use of various materials for aesthetic and functional purposes.

PfostenRiegelSystemen are known for their strength and rigidity, offering excellent load-bearing capacity. The system's adaptability makes it suitable for a wide range of architectural styles, from traditional vernacular buildings to modern contemporary structures. In contemporary applications, the "Pfosten" and "Riegel" can be made from steel or aluminum, and the infill is often glass, creating curtain wall systems or transparent facades. This system allows for large unsupported spans, facilitating expansive glazing and open interior spaces. The inherent structural integrity and aesthetic potential contribute to its continued relevance in construction.