Timber frames have been built for centuries, the Bible refers to timbers and joinery. However, when it became easy to turn timbers into boards and nail them together instead of using labor intensive joinery, timber frames were no longer a common way to build.
The fact that timber frames are more structurally sound and last centuries instead of decades wasn’t an issue. It should be. Timbers are minimally processed and often wood is used that would instead go to the chipper mill and become some sort of “wood product” that requires much processing.
So for timber framers, every day is Earth Day. Most are committed to building more sustainable, energy efficient buildings. Many consciously work to lessen their personal carbon footprint and to “live lightly on the land”.
We encourage you to take steps, whether small or large, to reserve resources. Change a lightbulb, turn off a light, plant a tree, use cloth grocery bags, shop locally…the list is endless and many things are easier to do than the way you might be doing it.
And, if you are considering a new home, consider a timber frame enclosed with energy efficient panels.
Tags: energy efficiency, green building, healthy homes, sustainability, timber frame homes
