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Timber frame construction remains a beautiful, though unfortunately an uncommon method of constructing a residence or commercial building. But because it remains an uncommon method of construction, the timber frame construction design is not familiar to many contractors, including many structural engineers. Not just any contractor will be qualified to handle a timber frame project.
Not all engineers, even structural engineers have the requisite training, education or experience to design or oversee the construction of a timber frame building. The stress loads of timber frames are different than those of steel or typical wood frame construction. Because timber frame construction is generally performed without hardware, the design and placement of wooden joints require a certain amount of expertise. Timber frame joints must be designed correctly to avoid shifting, settling or even catastrophic structural failure.
Indeed, the absence of steel plating and bolts from timber frame make the structural load dynamics different than post and beam construction. Timber frame construction details remain a unique method of construction. As with other construction methods, factors such as topography, temperature extremes, wind velocity and ground structure will have an effect on the timber frame structure. The timber frame engineer is employed because of a better understanding on how different designs will respond to these factors, and develop the best design for the particular circumstances.
The training and experience required for timber frame construction is recognized in the construction field. The Council of American Structural Engineers denotes a timber frame engineer as a specialty structural engineer (SSE).
It is a common practice for the timber frame contractor to engage a timber frame engineer for design and supervision of construction. Many times, the design responsibility is left to the timber frame designer, and in many cases, this is a more cost effective approach, leaving the basic design to the experience of the timber frame designer.
Depending on other components of the timber frame house kits, the timber frame engineer may be the only engineer needed for construction. At the least, the timber frame engineer will lessen the duties of the structural engineer of record, resulting in a lower engineering fee.
Employing a timber frame structural engineer is the employment of a specialist for a unique project. Because the project is inherently unique, prudence and good timber frame construction practices dictate employing a specialist.