|
B
ENEFITS
|
T
imber framing uses joinery; dimensioned timbers and knee braces are pegged together to create "bents", which are assembled to form a self supporting skeleton of a structure. The function of the walls is to enclose the structure, not to bear loads. One of the most commonly known forms of joinery is the mortise and tenon, however, many other types of connections can be used. Determining which type of joinery is suitable depends on several variables including compression, traction and flexion, and how the connection will react to these factors. The result is a distinctive interior with superior strength and stability. One of the most flexible construction techniques available, timber framing allows infinite building and design applications. Timber frame homes are a suitable choice in any setting - from urban environments to the countryside. Timber frame allows you to use any exterior treatment or material - brick, wood, masonry or stone. Timber frame fits right in; anywhere.
Appreciated for its esthetic qualities, timber frame construction is sturdy and well engineered. Homes built centuries ago are still in use today. Selecting timber frame construction is a wise choice - for centuries. A solid investment.
Self Supporting Qualities
The load of a self supporting timber frame construction is dispensed through the posts of the bents. As the walls are not the supporting element, this allows adaptability in the placement of walls, windows, and overall design.
Wide, open spans are an additional feature possible with timber framing. Design choices are expanded because there is the possibility to leave non-load bearing wall spaces open, allowing for the feeling of privacy, security and ambiance, while being "connected" to other rooms, or those in other rooms. The option of adding or removing walls at anytime is also available. Every taste can be accommodated with this flexibility - an important factor in the design stage.
Proof of the strength of timber frame construction is evidenced in the age of the craft and the ongoing existence of structures which were built centuries ago. Timber frame buildings were erected long before the invention and use of many modern construction materials we benefit from today. These modern day materials, in fact, compliment this age old craft. For example, stress skin panels are commonly used today in North American timber frame construction as a very efficient means of insulation and interior finishing. The panels provide superior heating and cooling benefits, and offer additional strength to the structure.
The self-supporting qualities and integral strength of timber frame engineering make it a perfect choice for new construction or an addition. It can be used almost anywhere with a vast variety of existing structures. This flexibility also enables the addition of timber framed rooms as the budget permits.
Coupling Traditional Timber Frame Homes by Marc Guilhemjouan's distinctive knowledge and skill of this centuries old craft with the benefits of modern building products provides an exceptional result - homes which are built to last.
Design Applications
Design applications of timber frame are infinite, providing opportunities for creativity, uniqueness and individual taste. Some examples are:
open spans
increased choice in placement of doors, windows and interior walls
high ceilings
lofts
appealing interior/exterior esthetics
use of a wide variety of interior/exterior finishing materials
sturdy and well engineered
long lasting
suitable choice in any setting (rural or urban
ability to move interior walls (frame, not the walls, maintains load of structure)
Timber framed projects can be simple or complex, as desired or needed, depending on factors such as taste, and site access, etc. Engaging the services of a qualified designer/builder who has training and knowledge in the field provides significant benefits. With the involvement of a professional, there is a compliment of a client's vision for their project, and the ability to draw on the professional's expertise. Creating a project with an expert who understands the structural composition of a timber frame can aid in incorporating best methods at all stages: concept, design and construction.
The design applications of the French Scribe system are virtually limitless and allow the use of regular or irregular beams, which can be an advantage over computer generated design. Traditional Timber Frame Homes by Marc Guilhemjouan designs are created using a centuries old system which finds the geometric plane of each timber; design and construction can include complex roof slopes, hips & valleys, round towers, etc., using regular or irregular timbers. This system is unlike computer aided design, which, while accurate, does not take into account the form and natural imperfections of each beam, which can cause carpentry difficulties when translating the information to the reality of working with the timbers.
Durability / Recycling
French Scribe timber framing is strong and durable. Proof is found in the monuments still existing in Europe today which were build centuries ago. Timber frames allow for less replacement construction, thus allowing for forest re-growth over time. Less replacement construction also requires less landfill use. The French Scribe System makes use of new or recycled timbers, and regular or irregular beams. This means less loss of raw materials during construction - a benefit to our forests.
Where there is a desire to achieve a weathered, aged esthetic from recycled timbers, the French Scribe method of timber framing offers pleasing results by retaining the rustic qualities of wood. Because this method can be used with both planed or irregular beams, there is no need to re-plane recovered wood, then hand-hew it to achieve the desired effect. The beams can be recycled and used in new construction intact, without disturbing the weathered finish which has been authentically created through time. Eliminating the planing and hewing processes also results in lower labour costs.
Fire Resistance
When lighting a fire, common sense tells us to start the process with kindling, not logs. The same principle applies to fires within a structure. For example, two-by-four construction can act like kindling in the event of a fire. Timber frames have superior fire resistance properties because of the size of the beams used in their construction.
Smaller beams are at a second disadvantage if exposed to fire - they loose their strength rapidly as the fibers break-down (assuming the entire small piece of wood has survived). Metal poses another problem - the high heat of a fire dilates metal causing it to warp, and this material also loses its strength.
Timber framed construction has a definite advantage. The carbon formed on the exterior of a large piece of wood during a fire assists in halting the spread of fire to the interior of the beam. Additionally, as fire moves from the outer edge of a beam in an inward direction, large timbers retain strength because the core fibers have a greater chance of remaining intact. The strength of these interior fibers is not altered. Evidence of this can be found in the age-old French methods of reclaiming scorched beams by hewing the burn area
Energy Efficient
Modern stress skin panels are an ideal choice for use in timber frame construction. They are installed on the exterior of a timber frame, creating an "insulation blanket" which is extremely energy efficient. This structural envelope reduces air leaks and provides savings both in heating and cooling the structure. Benefits of this material include vast reduction of cold/hot spots, superior strength, straight and flat wall finishes; and the ability to apply a variety of interior finishes, excellent acoustics, reduced labour installation costs, and high R-value.
Efficiency Equals Savings
An important consideration to note in the efficiency of any type of construction is accessibility to the project site. Generally, timber frame plans and bents are prepared in a workshop. This process can include all the cutting and fitting of the joinery, prior to bents ever leaving the workshop. Because it can be possible to fabricate the timber frame off site, and this work is, therefore, not restricted due to weather conditions, savings are realized. Raw materials are delivered and stored in the workshop. Savings in delivery costs of raw materials to sites which are difficult to access or are remote can quickly be achieved when this step is eliminated. Timber frame bents may be delivered to the site ready for the anticipated raising day.
|
