The benefit of post and beam house designs


Supporting structures are functional and can be used to add a little bit of charm to your interior.
Wooden beams can create a more rustic feel while other styles of beams add something extra to the interior architecture to your residence.

Using beams as part of architecture, construction and design is not a new concept and dates back to the thirteenth century.

Woodsy looking beams can create a completely different living space and can create a whole new look to a restored property.

When shopping for a house, a real estate agent typically describes an older building as having exposed beams or several old timbers present.

This gives a potential buyer the idea that the home is older but also gives the impression of character and coziness.

Structurally, timber frames are very common and have been used in small cottages, large mansions, mills and numerous other types of buildings.

They were commonly used in England around the thirteenth century and were used to frame barns, guildhalls, mill halls and other agricultural based buildings.

These beams make a substantially structurally sound building. Plus, the timber beam support adds character and beautiful detailing to the interior of any home or building.

The use of timber beams are commonly used where other building materials are not as easy to find or are not as affordable. One of these types of supplies is freestone and often residents in other areas use the wooden beams instead. One intricate part of a wooden beam is the intricate design.

If a structural beam on the interior of a building was carved with detail, it was considered a status symbol. Tall narrow panels, called close studding, is another way to construct buildings using this same type of architectural and structural design.

In some areas in England where wool trade had declined, it also impacted the use of timber frame architecture, as ironic as it should seem that the two industries should influence one another. The square paneling is often found in the Midlands region. In addition to the different types of structuring, there are other details.

For example, when a wooden beam is squared off at the end where the beam will enter the wall, it is called chamfer stops. This helps date the building and is also a distinctive structural design in various regions throughout the country.

Ash and elm are common in this design but oak is the most preferred type of wood. What makes a building like this structurally sound is the cross braces and joints that are strong and sturdy are its ability to bear weight.

Usually these beams are wedged, tied an nailed together. Many times these were held together with dirt, straw and even animal dung.

The cracks were then filled with plaster, a finish and usually a lime wash. While living in an older home is very appealing, there can be common problems with the structure and support of foundation and the architecture over all.

Timber extensions can help add space for a more modern living lifestyle. Each home over a period of time has its own character. As a different set of people live in a home over time, it can gradually change appearance.

You can add more to this “chapter” in the history book of your home by complementing aspects in your home that are already present.

Using wooden beams in the structure not only adds a more comfortable feel but in some ways gives it a taste of modernism.
Copyright © 2012 Modern Home Design Ideas by Honoriag.