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Structural Engineering for Timber Frame Homes

Scope Matters

Depending on the scope of your project it may require structural engineering. Wild Horse Timberworks does not provide structural engineering services but we can help you find an engineer who is experienced in timber frame projects.

A simple project involving timber elements may not require engineering at all. A project involving structural supports will undoubtedly require engineering. National and local building codes will apply.

Location Location Location

Each specific locale has its own regional requirements for the structural Engineer to consider when analyzing a set of proposed plans. Factors will include snow load, maximum wind and seismic considerations.

Materials

In addition to the environmental factors, your licensed Engineer will consider the structural characteristics of the plans. They will analzye the forces acting on frame members including: compression, tension, vertical shear, bending moment and horizontal shear. They will also consider the strength characteristics of the specific type of wood being used in the timber frame and the joinery that has been specified.

Structural Engineering and the Project Schedule

The structural Engineer must analyze the timber frame after the frame design has been completed, the joinery specified and the material type has been chosen. Final decisions on joinery and timber sizing may be affected by the Engineering analysis. Because of this, Wild Horse Timberworks and the structure Engineer will work closely during the analysis. In the unlikely instance that timber sizes have to be changed to accomodate load, we will consult with you and your Architect.

Engineering a Timber Frame is a Specialized Discipline

We strongly recommend using an engineer that specializes in timber frame because wooden joinery is an area that requires particular expertise. Your Architect or designer may have an engineer that they are very comfortable working with and this Engineer can complete the majority of the engineering required for your project. However, we strongly recommend that a specialist engineer the timber frame portion of your project. This is an important way to reduce re-work and unnecessary costs to you.

Of course, we'll help orchestrate this process as part of our standard project management services.