Northwest Timber Frames
FAQ

How much does it cost?

Generally speaking, timber frame construction is roughly 10-20 percent more than conventional construction, running from approximately $150 per square foot on up, for a turn key operation. Other factors that influence cost are the types of wood used and the complexity of the frame design.

Can NWTF design my home?

Yes! NWTF can serve as an in-house consultant for the more confident client or the do-it-yourselfer who has a pretty good idea of what they want and how the building process works. We can also create a three-dimensional computer model of your home that can then be used to create shop drawings as well as full architectural plans. The model is also the basis for determining how much labor and what materials, either from a supplier or the clients own lumber, will be needed to complete the project. At this point NWTF can create an estimated cost and a project budget can be formulated.


What is the best type of wood to use?

There are several species of wood that are excellent for use in timber frame construction. However, here in the Northwest we normally use Douglas Fir, which is readily available and comes in a variety of different grades. Other species can be used, depending upon desired cost and appearance (oak, pine or cedar for example). Another possibility would be recycled material, which has the advantage of extremely limited shrinkage as a result of drying that has already occurred over time.

What kind of joinery do you use to hold the frame together?

Northwest Timber frame tries to stay as true as possible to traditional mortise and tenon joints tightened with oak pegs. However some times engineering calls for additional bolts or plates for safety and code adherence.

Can NWTF build my entire house?

Certainly. Having been in the general contracting business since 1991, NWTF can take you from bare land to the finished product. Or anywhere in between.

Can I serve as my own general contractor?

Absolutely. We have worked with many owner/builders. If you are a first timer at serving as your own general contractor, you might want to hire someone to guide you through some of the tricky parts of the project.

How is a timber frame enclosed?

Once the frame is raised, there are a variety of enclosure systems that can be used to complete the construction of the walls. Our designers at Northwest Timer Frame can be of great assistance in helping you decide which system works best for your particular situation.

The most popular method in the industry are Structural Insulated Panels (SIP), which can be installed to provide not only the exterior walls but sometimes the roof/ceiling system also. SIPs are made of Expanded Polystyrene (ESP) sandwiched by two sheets of plywood-like material called oriented strand board (OSB). SIPs are widely used because of their speed of assembly (they can be custom precut at the factory) and their energy efficiency. Once the panels or other wall enclosure systems are complete and in place, the roof and siding can be added to make the house weather tight and the interior work can begin.

Other options include conventional framing methods using standard batts or blown in cellulose insulation, as well as natural insulating materials such as clay, wood chips or straw.

What about the electrical and plumbing?

In the case of traditional wall framing nothing changes in a timber frame home. If you opt to use the SIPs panels, they come from the factory with channels cut in them for the wiring. Plumbing normally is run in the interior walls. Great care is taken in the design process to ensure that allmechanical systems will work properly.

Can I see one of your completed projects?

NWTF would be more than happy to let you see first hand some of our completed projects here on Whidbey Island.

How do we get started?

You can call (360) 341-1354 or email Jeff at Jeff@nwtimberframes.com to ask more questions or to schedule a time to tour some finished homes.