VTF - Frequently Asked Questions
- What’s the difference between timber frame and post and beam construction?
- Does Vermont Timber Frames do complete turnkey construction?
- I live far away from Vermont, but I still want a Vermont Timber Frame. Is it possible?
- What are my options as far as the style of my timber frame is concerned?
- What home plan options does VTF provide?
- Do you handle only large projects?
- How affordable are you compared to other companies?
- How long will it take to raise the frame and install the panels?
- What species of timber can I use?
- Why do you use traditional joinery?
- Will the timbers check?
- I plan on being my own general contractor. Is VTF a good fit for me?
VTF FAQ Answers
1.What’s the difference between timber frame and post and beam construction?
Timber framing is a specific type of post & beam construction in which timbers are connected with traditional mortise & tenon joinery and secured with hardwood pegs.
2. Does Vermont Timber Frames do complete turnkey construction?
No. VTF will serve basically as a subcontractor to a general contractor or to an owner/builder. We focus on what we do best - VTF is generally responsible for the timber frame (design, fabrication, and erection), and the structural insulated panels (supply and installation). We also can supply Loewen windows and doors.
3. I live far away from Vermont, but I still want a Vermont Timber Frame. Is it possible?
While we're based in the New England area, we create timber frames for customers all over the country. We've raised our timber frames in New Orleans, Spokane, Alaska, even Dublin, Ireland, just to name a few sites outside the Northeast. Since most of the work takes place in our shop, we can fully respond to your requirements and dreams well within the boundaries of your budget.
4. What are my options as far as the style of my timber frame is concerned?
Timber frame construction is very adaptable. While many folks associate timber framing with rustic aesthetics, it is suitable for just about any architectural style.
5. What home plan options does VTF provide?
Please visit our Design Center for the three different design approaches VTF offers our clients.
6. Do you handle only large projects?
No matter the size or scope of the project we are prepared to offer solutions that make sense aesthetically and per the budget. Our clients are allowed to pick and choose which elements of ours help achieve what they wish to accomplish. Many of our projects include isolated areas of timber framing or trusses & timber elements for certain rooms in the home rather than a complete timber frame.
7. How affordable are you compared to other companies?
As a company, Vermont Timber Frames believes in running as lean a machine as possible. We do not have a model home, which can be extremely expensive to maintain. We do not have a vast marketing budget as we have found the majority of our business comes via word of mouth. These factors, combined with our advanced design & timber-cutting technology have helped to make us one of the most efficient companies in our industry. We have found ourselves to be more cost-effective than many companies that may not share our reputation for quality.
8. How long will it take to raise the frame and install the panels?
A 2500 SF timber frame averages about two weeks. The size and complexity of the building - as well as the site conditions and constraints - will affect the time it will take. Regardless, timber frame/SIP structures can be weather-tight much quicker than conventional construction.
9. What species of timber can I use?
Douglas fir, red & white oak, and Eastern white pine are most often selected by our clients. We also offer options such as Southern yellow pine; Western red, Alaskan yellow & Port Orford cedar; and Redwood to name a few. Accent pieces can come from cherry, etc. We also do several projects each year in microwave kiln-dried timbers (for certain applications) and reclaimed, recycled, or salvaged timbers. We work closely with our clients to determine which species makes the most sense for their particular project.
10. Why do you use traditional joinery?
Traditional joinery yields the most beautiful finished product while ensuring that that beauty will stand for generations. This type of construction has been used for more than a thousand years and there are countless ancient timber frame structures that still stand today. Click here to see what sets VTF apart even from other companies that use ‘traditional joinery.
11. Will the timbers check?
Occasionally a slight grain separation, known as a “check”, will appear on the surface of a timber. This is a naturally occurring feature that can occur when timbers contain wood that has been cut from the center of the tree (heartwood). Checking can also occur if timber is allowed to dry too quickly. Checking does not compromise the integrity of the timber or the structure.
Some of our clients think checking adds character to their frame, especially if their home has a rustic style. However, many would like to minimize it as much as possible. For these clients we would typically specify ‘free-of-heart center’ timbers [when using a softwood species such as fir]. This eliminates the center of the tree from the timber, releasing the stress that causes checking. We also apply a wax-based sealant to the end of every timber to slow the release of moisture.
12. I plan on being my own general contractor. Is VTF a good fit for me?
Many owner/builders have found us to be an ideal fit for their timber frame projects. Since we do not force our clients to commit to a ‘package deal’, they can pick and choose which elements of ours make the most sense for the project. They don’t have to worry about having a margin tacked onto items they could get directly. Also, the fact that we use our own crews to raise the frame and install the panels ensures a proper and efficient process and eliminates the hassle of finding a crew and coordinating the raising. This frees up the owner/builder to take care of other on-site items. We will also provide any and all details necessary to make the rest of the building process tie into the timber frame as seamlessly as possible.
Client Testimonial
"Tom Harrison and Paul Martin were great. Our home is a nice lifestyle change for us, and Tom and Paul were very flexible and accommodating. Everything went so well. Our experience with VTF was nothing short of excellent."
- Bill & MaryBeth Toms
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