Timber Frame/ Post & Beam

Commonly known as Timber Frame, Post & Beam and Mortise & Tenon Construction, Timber Frame homes are a popular alternative to log homes. These homes allow for some more "mountain contemporary" design elements compared to log construction.

Timber Frame homes combine the beauty of wood with the functionality of drywall interior walls. Timber Frame and Post & Beam Construction are similar to Log Homes in that a "timber package" is milled at a remote location then assembled on your job site. Typically, this Timber Frame is the "skeleton" of the home. These homes provide a timeless beauty not typical in a stick frame construction.

Some companies build with traditional framing and insulation outside the exposed posts and beams. We prefer the SIPs (Structurally Insulated Panels) panel option. These very energy efficient SIPS wall and roof panels ensure an Energy Efficient comfortable home. The Panels arrive pre-cut to exacting specifications, and act as both the structural wall and the home insulation. This construction style saves time and labor on the home site. Many homes the exterior walls and roof system may be set with a 3 man crew and a crane in a matter of days vs. months it would take to frame, sheet and insulate a conventional stick frame wall and roof system.

All windows and doors are installed after the wall set. You may choose any exterior siding profile you wish with this home style and it may be sourced from the Timber supplier or with your local General Contractor. Andersen windows and patio doors are included with the Timber package.

The common element of a Timber Frame or Post & Beam home are high ceilings, open floor plans, and extensive windows to capture views and natural light. Traditional timber framing is the method of creating structures using heavy squared-off and carefully fitted and joined timbers with joints secured by large wooden pegs

Today there is increased precision by using a combination of hand crafting and German Engineering machinery in the manufacture process. Wood in a Post & Beam structure can be square or round lumber in a variety of specie. This choice will be determined by both budget and visual impression desired. There are many benefits ti SIPs wall and roof system construction.

1. Excellent Thermal Performance High-altitude environments experience: • Large day–night temperature swings • Long, cold seasons • Intense solar radiation SIPs provide: • High R-values with minimal thermal bridging • Continuous insulation, reducing heat loss • Better comfort with significantly less energy used for heating

This makes them ideal for mountain climates. 2. Air-Tight Construction At altitude, wind exposure is typically stronger and more constant. SIPs naturally create: • Very tight building envelopes • Fewer drafts • Better control of indoor temperature and humidity A tight envelope also reduces heating system load, which matters since combustion appliances perform differently in thin air. 3. Faster Construction in Hard-to-Build Areas High-altitude sites often have: • Short building seasons • Difficult-to-access locations • Scarce or expensive labor SIPs help by: • Reducing framing and insulation steps • Allowing assembly in days instead of weeks • Minimizing need for specialized tools This makes it easier to complete a project before snow or storms move in. 4. Strong Structural Performance SIPs perform well under: • Snow loads (common at high elevations) • High winds • Seismic activity in some mountainous regions Their composite structure—OSB skins + rigid foam—creates a panel that functions like an I-beam, giving excellent strength-to-weight ratio. 5. Improved Indoor Air Quality High-altitude homes tend to stay closed up due to cold temperatures. SIPs’ tight envelope pairs well with: • Controlled ventilation systems (HRVs/ERVs) • Reduction of drafts and outdoor dust • Better moisture management The result is healthier indoor air in a climate where natural ventilation is limited.⸻ 6. Reduced Energy Demand in Remote Areas Many high-altitude homes rely on: • Propane • Electrical heating SIPs dramatically reduce heating consumption, helping: • Downsize HVAC equipment • Improve the viability of solar-based systems • Lower operating costs 7. Better Moisture Control in Snow-Prone Climates SIPs provide: • Minimal thermal bridging → fewer cold spots where condensation can form • Continuous insulation → warmer interior surfaces • Reduced risk of ice dams This is especially important at high elevations where snow melts and refreezes constantly. 8. Precision Manufacturing for Difficult Weather Panels are factory-made, so: • They’re not exposed to the weather during construction • Dimensional accuracy is better • Less on-site waste accumulates (important on constrained mountain lots)