Timberframe

Timber framing is a method of building in which a structural frame of heavy timber posts and beams carries most of the load. The frame is typically joined by mortise-and-tenon connections that are secured with wooden pegs. The spaces between members are filled with an infill such as wattle-and-daub, brick nogging, or modern plaster or insulated panels. In many buildings the timber frame is left exposed on one or both faces for aesthetic value; in others it is hidden behind traditional plaster or siding.

Historically, timber framing was common in medieval and early modern Europe and in colonial North America. It is especially associated with Fachwerk houses in Germany, cruck frames in Britain, and similar traditions across northern Europe. Construction patterns, joint terminology, and infill styles vary regionally, but the basic principle—visible timber skeleton with decoupled infill—remains consistent. Modern craft often uses prefabricated timbers cut by CNC machines and joined with traditional methods or modern fasteners, while preserving the timber-frame look.

The advantages of timber framing include durability, repairability, and a timeless aesthetic, plus potential thermal mass when combined with suitable infill. Drawbacks can include higher labor costs, need for skilled carpentry, and careful moisture management to prevent decay. Modern practice frequently pairs traditional joinery with contemporary insulation, vapor control, and sustainable timber sourcing.