Post and Beam Homes feature vertical, load bearing round logs or square timbers which support the main framework of the home including upper beams and joists. As opposed to standard platform framing construction, the logs of post and beam homes are not connected together with metal fasteners. Instead, post and beam home construction uses tenons and mortises which are custom shaped at the joint locations to fit together and form a strong connection. The appeal of post and beam homes for consumers is the beautifully crafted, old world look that can be produced both inside and outside of the home. The strength and stability of post and beam homes has been proven simply by the sheer number of these magnificent structures that are over a century old and still standing today. Rather than hiding the structural framework as is done in many stick frame houses, Post and Beam Home Designs allow for an elegant interior display of the structural framework which can add rich beauty to the living environment. Many of the log characteristics are retained and used to accent the living space. Post and beam home construction allows for an interior with wide open expanses and tall ceilings, which is difficult to replicate using conventional home construction methods. Homeowners also have the option to find and purchase pre-designed Post and Beam Home Plans or to customize post and beam plans to include their own preferences in the final layout. Post and beam homes also offer one of the fastest forms of home construction available. The framing concept is simple. Every portion of the post and beam framework is preassembled at an outside location and then the pieces are transported to the site for assembly. Once on site, the home’s posts and beams can be connected together easily because the tenon and mortise joint connections have been pre-milled offsite. In addition to the solid connections provided by the tenon and mortise system, diagonal braces are usually added to give a post and beam house excellent lateral resistance to wind. The large logs and timbers used in post and beam homes give great strength and visual interest along with their load bearing capacity. With proper construction, a post and beam house can be very energy efficient. Insulation panel sections can be pre-designed and added to the building walls to form a seal that prevents cold air from penetrating the interior environment. Annual or semi-annual inspection of the roof is important to keep the elements out. Sealing of exterior wood surfaces at predetermined intervals, often two or three years, will ensure a long lasting service life for your post and beam home. Proper care for a post and beam house will allow the structure to have an indefinite life span.
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