Large Timber Structures in North Texas

Generally a member at least five inches on its smallest nominal dimension, though the more useful distinction is structural. Heavy timber carries load through a few very large members joined directly to each other, usually with mortise and tenon joinery pegged with hardwood, rather than through many small members tied together with metal plates. In a timber frame the structure is the finish, so the joinery is visible and has to be cut accordingly.

Neither is inherently stronger — both are engineered to carry their loads. What heavy timber gives you is redundancy in the member itself and exceptional longevity, which is why timber-framed barns from the 1800s are still standing across North Texas. It also gives you long clear spans without posts interrupting the middle of the space.

Those are checks, and in most cases they are cosmetic rather than structural. Timber shrinks as it releases moisture and relieves that stress by opening along the grain. It is expected, it is part of how a timber frame looks, and it does not compromise the member. Specifying free-of-heart-center stock reduces it noticeably, and we will explain the trade-off before you choose.

Both, depending on what the structure needs. Traditional mortise and tenon with hardwood pegs is the right answer where the joinery is meant to be seen and the geometry allows it. Concealed steel knife plates are the right answer where the span, the load or the connection angle makes a wood joint the weak point. We will tell you which one your structure calls for and why.

Often, yes. Long spans, tall posts and open structures that take wind load usually require stamped engineering before a permit is issued. Requirements vary by city and by structure. We identify this at the visit rather than after you have signed something.

Longer than conventional framing, and most of it happens before we are on your property. Layout and cutting is the bulk of the work; the raise itself is often a day or two. Expect the overall timeline to be driven by engineering, permitting and timber lead times rather than by site work.

Exposed timber wants a penetrating oil finish with real UV inhibitors, not a film finish that will peel. Our sun is punishing on exposed wood and the re-coat interval here is shorter than the can suggests. We leave you a schedule specific to the species and the exposure on your structure.

Usually. Attached structures need the connection detail worked out carefully, because the new frame and the existing house will move differently and the roof line has to tie in without creating a water problem. This is the part we look hardest at on the first visit.