What Is Included in a Timber Frame Kit?
One of the most common questions we receive is, "What exactly is included in a timber frame kit?" The answer depends on the supplier and the specific package being offered. Some companies provide only the structural timber frame, while others offer additional materials and services. At Team Timber, our packages are designed to provide the core components needed for a timber frame structure while allowing flexibility for customers, builders, and architects to complete the project according to their preferences.
Understanding Timber Frame Kits
The term "timber frame kit" can mean different things depending on the company. Before comparing prices between suppliers, it is important to understand exactly what is included.
Some kits include only the timber frame itself. Others may include roof systems, engineering, hardware, or additional building materials. This is why two seemingly similar projects can have significantly different pricing.
A timber frame kit should be viewed as the structural skeleton of the building and the components required to assemble it.
What Is Typically Included?
CNC Cut Timber Frame
The primary component of any timber frame kit is the timber frame itself.
This includes all structural posts, beams, braces, trusses, rafters, and other framing members required for the design. The timbers are precision CNC cut to ensure accurate joinery and efficient assembly.
Depending on the project and customer preferences, timber species may include:
- Eastern White Pine
- Douglas Fir
- Western Red Cedar
- Alaskan Yellow Cedar
Each timber is precision cut to accommodate the required joinery and hardwood pegs used during assembly.
Timber Frame Hardware
Most timber frame projects require a combination of traditional timber framing components and modern structural hardware.
Depending on the design, this may include:
- Hardwood pegs
- Structural screws
- Concealed fasteners
- Steel plates
- Post bases
- Connection brackets
The specific hardware required will vary based on the design, engineering requirements, and intended use of the structure.
Roof Decking
Many timber frame kits include tongue and groove roof decking installed directly over the rafters.
Popular options include:
- Spruce Decking
- Eastern White Pine Decking
- Douglas Fir Decking
Roof decking provides the finished wood ceiling visible from inside the structure while also serving as the base for the roofing system above.
Construction Plans
Construction plans provide the information needed to understand how the timber frame is assembled.
These plans show the structural layout, timber sizes, joinery locations, and overall design of the frame. During installation, they serve as the primary reference for builders assembling the structure.
Engineering
For projects requiring engineered drawings, the construction plans are reviewed and stamped by a licensed engineer based on the project location and applicable building requirements.
Engineering helps ensure the structure meets local code requirements and environmental loading conditions such as snow and wind loads.
What Is Often Optional?
Many customers assume a timber frame kit includes every component needed to complete a building. In most cases, that is not how the industry works.
Items that are often optional or supplied separately may include:
- Windows and doors
- Roofing materials
- Foundation systems
- Electrical systems
- Plumbing systems
- HVAC systems
- Interior finishes
- Exterior finishes
- Insulation
These items are typically selected by the homeowner, builder, or architect based on project goals and budget.
Additional Package Options
Depending on the project, additional materials may also be incorporated into a package.
Examples include:
- Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs)
- Wood siding
- Decorative timber accents
- Custom steel fabrication
- Specialty timber species
- Sanding and staining services
These options allow customers to tailor the package to their specific project requirements.
Choosing the Right Timber Frame Package
When comparing timber frame companies, it is important to look beyond the bottom-line price and understand what is actually included.
A lower-priced package may include only the structural frame, while a higher-priced package may include roof decking, hardware, engineering, and other valuable components.
Understanding exactly what is included helps ensure accurate comparisons and helps avoid unexpected costs later in the project.
Final Thoughts
Every timber frame project is unique, and the contents of a timber frame kit can vary significantly from one supplier to another. Understanding what is included and what is not included is one of the most important steps when planning a project.
If you are considering a timber frame home, cabin, barn, garage, or pavilion, feel free to reach out to Team Timber. We would be happy to discuss your project, explain available options, and help determine the package that best fits your goals.