A centuries-old traditional construction method, timber framing uses heavy wood timbers as well as mortise and tenon joinery to create stable structures. A timber frame carries its loads within the wood framework, eliminating the need for interior structure and enabling open floor plans with soaring volumes. Despite today’s availability of standard dimensional lumber, timber framing remains a popular choice for beauty and craftsmanship. Surprisingly, timber framing has also seen a popularity increase for its contributions to high-performance buildings and energy efficiency, particularly when used in combination with Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs).
SIPs are manufactured and marketed by a number of companies, including Murus, Premier, Acme, Insulspan, and Foard, among others. Advance discussion and coordination between general contractor and timber framer can identify the panel system most appropriate for a specific construction project.