Ständerwerk

Ständerwerk refers to a type of timber framing construction. It is a structural system where vertical posts, known as "Ständer," are supported by horizontal beams, called "Riegel." These components are typically made of wood and are joined together using various methods, including mortise and tenon joints, dowels, or metal fasteners. The spaces between the vertical posts are often filled with insulation, cladding, or infill panels.

This construction method has a long history and is prevalent in many traditional buildings, particularly in Central Europe. It allows for the creation of strong and stable walls and can be adapted to a wide range of architectural styles. Ständerwerk is known for its flexibility in design and its ability to incorporate large openings for windows and doors.

Modern applications of Ständerwerk often involve engineered wood products for increased strength and efficiency. The system can be used for both load-bearing walls and non-load-bearing partitions. It is recognized for its sustainability, as wood is a renewable resource, and for its potential to contribute to good thermal performance when properly insulated. The underlying principle is the creation of a skeletal framework that provides the primary support for a building.