Northern Bay Timber Frames

Each timber frame is as individual as its owners.There are variables to cost of course, which are mainly decided in its design. Others are decided by options such as choosing an oiled frame, arched braces, or chamfered beams.

Most of the cost is in the labor. Timber work is much more exacting than conventional construction. Only by practicing methodical layout and careful tool work can a quality frame be made.

The cost of materials is between 30% and 40% of the total price of a post and beam structure and about 20% of a timber frame structure.

A timber frame is a structure comprised of all wood with wooden fasteners are pegs. All connections or joints are crafted with mortise and tenons or a variety of other joinery

Our post and beam frames are the same as a timber frame in design. We keep the pegged mortise and tenon joinery in the primary structural points of the frame, such as where a tie-beam(the main carrying beam that supports the floor system and holds a bent in tension) connects to a post. For secondary members such as braces, floor joists, or roof purlins we "house" the joint in the adjacent member but omit the mortise and tenon or other traditional joint. These are replaced by specialty timber bolts that are recessed and covered by a wooden peg. No fasteners are seen in the frame. In fact most people do not see a difference at all.

You will know the difference, of course, so if you have always dreamed of living in a traditional timber frame by all means go for it. Otherwise you may enjoy the 20%-30% savings to cost that a post and beam can bring.

The length of time varies by project. It takes two to four weeks to acquire the timbers after ordering and three to ten weeks to cut the timbers of a small to average sized home. Add to this the time for frame design and planning.

Other factors include how soon your project is beginning and what projects are already on line in our shop. We never shift projects but can bring in additional help if you need an order quickly. Whatever your project demands we will work with you to meet your time goals.

Initial estimates are for the structure only. Timber frame, post and beam, or both as indicated in the estimate request form. This includes all appropriate fasteners. Timbers are of Eastern White Pine unless specified otherwise.

-Sanding and oiling of timbers

This is a recommended option if you do not like the natural checking and aging patina of timbers. The wood will still move , but checking will be minimized and the wood will maintain its natural color. We use a bio safe non chemical treatment comprised of citrus and beeswax.

-Chamfered timbers

Chamfering the wood takes off the hard edges of the timbers which occasionally splinter. A 45 degree chamfer is applied to each edge of exposed timber and stopped in a "lamb's tongue"

-Hardwood braces

Offsetting pine with a darker colored brace will bring added contrast to a frame. Especially if wood paneling is called for on the walls.

-Arched braces

Arched braces soften the hard lines of the frame and are quite attractive besides.

Raisings are site specific. We have done raisings with cranes, boom trucks, aerial lifts, as well as by hand. They can take one long day or up to a week and range in cost between $2000 and $8000 for larger projects with most falling in betwwen.

We will consider enclosing or finishing a home or outbuilding within one hour travel distance of Penobscot, ME

Frame drawings carry a charge $300 which is refundable toward the purchase of the frame. Frame Redraws are done for a flat rate of $50.

We will deliver anywhere shipping arrangements can be made.

10%(minus $300 drawing fee if applicable) of total frame cost is due to reserve a position in production for the following year. An additional 40% is due before timbers are ordered.

With smaller projects taking less than one month, the remaining 50% is due when frame is complete and before delivery. With projects over one month 25% is due at the midpoint with the remainder at project completion and before delivery.

Freight costs are always changing. Single load shipping usually runs about $2 per mile. Entering 04476 to your construction site address into mapquest.com driving directions will give you an idea of the mileage involved.