5 Things to Know When Building a Timber Frame Home
You’ve decided to build your dream home in Pittsburgh, and you’re preparing to embark on the exciting journey of hand-picking every detail, from the location to the design. As you begin, one of the first and most important decisions you’ll make is the choice of building materials.
While there are many options to consider, timber frame homes are a popular pick for good reason. The environmental benefits, wood frame speed, design versatility, and aesthetic appeal of timber construction make it an ideal choice for your new home.
What is Timber Framing?
Timber framing is a specialized style of building construction in which large. solid wood beams frame the structure, secured with wooden brackets or joinery. The timber frame technique is a well-established, centuries-old method of construction, providing the strength and dependability to last a lifetime.
The timber frame’s support structure is not only functional, but also acts as a beautiful design element. A custom timber frame home builder can be designed in any style, from traditional to modern, with endless floorplan choices. At Costa Homebuilders, we work hand-in-hand with you to personalize your timber frame home, ensuring it fits your vision perfectly.
5 Benefits of Timber Frame Homes
While the benefits of timber frames are extensive, consider these top five advantages as you make your decision.
1. Wood is a Natural and Renewable Resource
Wood is a naturally-growing resource, and the only truly renewable building material. Sustainable timber sourcing standards ensure that as trees are harvested, new trees are planted in their place.
Timber frame production is also an excellent way to produce energy. There is almost no waste, as the by-products like wood fibers and residues can be recycled and used as fuel.
2. Timber Frame Homes are Environmentally Friendly
Timber frame homes are not only beautiful and durable – they’re environmentally friendly, too. In the comparison of wood vs. steel, concrete, and cement, studies show wood is better for the environment, as the alternatives are responsible for a significant percentage of global CO2 emissions.
Timber frame homes are also highly energy-efficient. The structure creates a snug thermal envelope, preventing warm air from escaping the home. Our Costa Homebuilders custom homes can be finished with the most energy-efficient structural insulating panels available – sealing the home from the elements, trapping heat inside, and reducing energy costs.
3. Option for Hybrid Timber Frame Homes
All of the home or part of the home can be built with timber. Timbers can be used both for decorative and structural purposes and can be combined with conventional construction. You can enjoy the use of timber for main rooms like the entry way of the home or the kitchen, creating a splash of character for the more visited parts of the home.
4. Timber Framing is Exceptionally Versatile
Timber framing allows you to design your dream home with unparalleled freedom and versatility. At Costa Homebuilders, each home is different and completely customizable, from the trusses and frame to the design style. Because timber framed homes do not require interior walls to support the structure, you have endless options in choosing your ideal floorplan.
Design a modern, open-concept home filled with light, or create a traditional, classic look highlighted by timber with a rustic aesthetic – with such versatile construction, the choice is yours.
5. Natural Wood is Aesthetically Appealing
There’s no denying the visual appeal of timber frame homes. The exposed wood aesthetic engages the senses – its surface embodies an opulent strength, while the captivating hues and depth of grain enchant the viewer. The natural element of wood creates a warm, rich, and welcoming ambiance. The home’s frame is a masterpiece in itself, meant to be seen and admired for its beauty, power, and craftsmanship.
Choosing a Timber Frame Home Builder
When selecting a timber frame home builder, it’s important to choose an experienced timber specialist who’s passionate about working with wood. At Costa Homebuilders, we’ve mastered the art of building strong, unique homes using our New Life Custom Home Building Process.
Our tried-and-true process ensures your new home reflects your vision, while dramatically reducing the stress and frustration many feel throughout their home-building journey.
Let Costa Homebuilders Create Your Timber Frame Dream Home
The benefits of timber frame homes are clear, and with these five tips in mind, the decision should be easy. At Costa Homebuilders, we understand that picking the right builder to accompany you on your journey is critical. We pride ourselves on four generations of quality homebuilding, and our experienced team is dedicated to providing the best possible building experience from start to finish. Contact our Pittsburgh building team today to get started on your dream home.
