Timber frame blog, timber frame and post and beam homes, floor plans: by Davis Frame

Modern Timber Home Living in Tennessee

2012-01-25T13:20:00.000-05:00

Back in August, we featured a story on our client Wade Max's journey to building his timber frame home in Tennessee. The Max's started the construction for their new timber frame in late February 2011 and moved into their new home in December. There were weather delays along the way, but that didn't stop the couple from completing their home by the end of the year!

The Max's home features 2,712 square feet and one floor living with a second floor loft that overlooks the first floor. The first floor features a large open concept space with the great room, kitchen and dining room open to one another. To the right of the great room is a game room and den, as well as the luxurious master bedroom suite equipped with a full bathroom, spacious walk-in closet and laundry area. Patio doors off of the dining room lead to a large deck and is the perfect place to enjoy a view of the pond nearby.

The Max's chose to furnish and decorate their new timber frame with modern decor. Timber frames lend themselves to all architectural and decor styles. With the home's open concept layout, modern living was easily achieved. Check out the photos below!

This timber frame kitchen features modern cabinetry and lighting. A walk-in pantry is also located off of the kitchen and is perfect for storing extra pots, pans and dry food. The modern bar stools add a chic style to this kitchen. Check out these similar steel wire bar stools on Amazon!

The open concept layout among the kitchen, dining room and great room allows the homeowners to easily entertain a crowd.

This timber frame great room features stylish furniture with simple lines. Cabinets and built in glass shelves were created for the media space. A contemporary gas fireplace will keep the space warm on chilly evenings.

Are you looking to decorate your new timber frame home with modern decor? Below are a few furniture and decor websites to check out!

If you are interested in building a new home, call us at 1-800-636-0993 to receive a free copy of our 52 page brochure.

More Updates on Cape Cod Timber Frame Home

2012-01-18T14:10:00.000-05:00

Cape Cod Timber Frame Home

We recently received more finished photos of one of our clients timber frame homes on Cape Cod! We are excited to share the latest updated photos. This new Cape Cod vacation home is located on the river and is just a short drive away from a few of the local beaches. The timber frame home was designed to maximize the riverfront view and features an upper level deck. Check out the latest photos below:

Custom kitchen under construction

The timber frame great room features seaside decor, perfect for Cape Cod living.

This guest bedroom also features a ships ladder that leads to a sleeping loft above. This is a great setup for a family with children who are visiting overnight.

Rear view of waterfront timber frame home

If you are looking to build a timber frame home in Eastern Massachusetts, including the Cape and Islands, contact Bay Colony Timber Frame by calling 508-259-7137!

2012 Northeast Home Show Schedule Including Boston and Philadelphia

2012-01-11T12:38:00.001-05:00

Here at Davis Timber Frame Company, we have an exciting and busy line up of home shows scheduled this winter and spring.

We will be attending two Ideal Living Expo Home Shows. These shows are catered to attract those who wish to build their dream retirement home. There will be seminars on hot new home trends and tips to sell your existing home. For those who wish to retire in the South, there will be real estate consultants who specialize in helping you locate a property in the South. Be sure to stop by our booth at the Ideal Living Expo to learn how a timber frame home can provide you with a beautiful and energy efficient low maintenance retirement home.

The New England Home Show is at the end February and is New Engand's largest and longest running home show! You will be able to meet with architects, builders, remodelers, kitchen cabinet companies, furniture companies and everything in between to help you remodel your existing home or prep you to build your dream home.

Also, make sure to attend the upcoming Log and Timber Frame Home Show in March and April in Pennsylvania and Maryland.

We hope you will be able to join at one of the following home shows:

Ideal Living Expo
Whippany, New Jersey

Dates/Show Hours:
Saturday, January 21, 2012
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sunday, January 22, 2012
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Location:
Hanover Marriott
1401 Rte. 10 East
Whippany, NJ 07981

Click here for directions!
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Ideal Living Expo
Greenwich, Connecticut

Dates/Show Hours:
Saturday, February 11, 2012
10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sunday, February 12, 2012
11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Location:
Hyatt Regency Greenwich
1800 East Putnam Ave.
Old Greenwich, CT 06870

Click here for directions!
__________________________________________________
The New England Home Show
Boston, Massachusetts

Dates/Show Hours:
Thursday, February 23, 2012
12 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Friday, February 24, 2012
12 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday, February 25, 2012
10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday, February 26, 2012
10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Location:
Seaport World Trade Center
200 Seaport Blvd.
Boston, MA 02210

Booth #: 407

Visit our website to see the rest of our upcoming home show schedule in the Northeast or call us today at 1-800-636-0993!

Davis Timber Frame Celebrates 25th Anniversary

2012-01-05T12:16:00.002-05:00

Cape Cod Davis Timber Frame Home

This January we are celebrating our 25th year in business! Over the years we have worked with hundreds of clients to design and craft their dream home.

If you are not familiar with Davis Timber Frame, our company was founded by timber framer Jeff Davis and custom home builder Rick Bascom back in 1987. The two realized they shared a common dream and that was to build quality and energy efficient timber frame homes. Rick, Jeff and a small crew began handcrafting timber frames in a barn on Rick's family farm in Brownsville, Vermont.

Over the years, our reputation grew and so did the demand for our timber frame homes. To accommodate the growing demand, in 1997 we built a 22,000 square foot design and manufacturing facility in Claremont, New Hampshire. Over the past decade, we have built a 2,500 sf timber frame model home as well as another manufacturing facility to manufacture our panelized home system, Energy Smart Insulated Panel System.

Learning, growing and adapting over time has meant incorporating the latest technological advances in design and production, integrating more efficient building systems into our home design, and embracing new materials and technologies. As part of our drive to deliver the highest quality possible in all aspects of design, we continually re-evaluate construction "best practices" and provide on-going education to staff to ensure that we are creating not only beautiful structures, but smarter, healthier and more efficient buildings.

Take a look back in time and check out some photos from over the years.

Jeff in the early days hammering a peg into the timber.

The crew raising a panel into place.

Our Claremont,New Hampshire Headquarters

Timber Frame model home in New Hampshire.

Rick and Jeff

Visit our 25th Anniversary Timber Frame Photo Gallery to see our portfolio featuring a sampling of timber frame homes that we have crafted over the years. To learn more about our timber frame packages, call us today at 1-800-636-0993.

New Timber Frame Home in Mount Snow Vermont

2011-12-28T14:16:00.000-05:00

Modified Forest View Timber Frame Home near Mount Snow in Vermont

Our timber frame floor plan, the Forest View, is a perfect style home for those interested in building in the mountains. Our original Forest View timber frame home was built near a popular ski mountain in Vermont. We currently have a modified version of the Forest View under construction in the Mount Snow region of Vermont. Although similar to the original plan, there are a few modifications: the home is a hybrid timber frame, meaning that the main living areas of the home feature timber framing, while the wings of the home are conventionally framed; the home features a two car garage instead of a three car garage; and the second floor hosts three bedrooms and there will be no guest bedrooms above the garage as the original Forest View plan shows.

Check out the modified plans below:

Modified Forest View first floor plan, click plan to enlarge.

The first floor features and open and spacious layout, perfect for entertaining guests at the mountain. Upon entering the spacious entry, straight ahead is the timber frame great room. To the left of the great room is the luxurious master bedroom suite. To the right is the open concept kitchen and dining room. A walk-in pantry is also off of the kitchen allowing for plenty of food storage. To the right of the kitchen is the mud room, office and screened in porch.

Modified Forest View second floor plan, click plan to enlarge.

The second floor hosts three spacious guest bedrooms and two full bathrooms. There will also be a finished basement with a guest bedroom, full bathroom and recreational room. There is plenty of room for family and friends!

Here are the latest construction photos below:

Check out photos of the original finished Forest View timber frame home. If you would like to speak with one of our project coordinators about your upcoming home project, call us at 1-800-636-0993.

Update on Southern Vermont Timber Frame Project

2011-12-22T13:56:00.000-05:00

This Davis Frame timber frame home is a hybrid timber frame with the main areas of the home featuring timber framing and the remainder of the home will be conventionally built. Building a hybrid timber frame is a great way to save money while still achieving the timber frame look you want.

The timber frame home will feature 3,482 SF with 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. The master bedroom suite is located on the first floor and the 2 guest bedrooms and bathroom will be located on the second floor.

Check out our latest construction photos for this southern Vermont Davis Timber Frame home below!

The kitchen cabinets are installed; the countertop and flooring are next to be installed

The timber frame great room being worked on

The timber frame loft features a king post truss

One of the second floor guest bedrooms

To get started on your timber frame project, call us today at 1-800-636-0993!

Read One Couple's Journey on Building Their New Caribbean Home

2011-12-22T12:39:00.000-05:00

Caribbean timber frame home under construction

Prior to Hurricane Ivan (September 11, 2004), Phil and Nancy lived in a four bedroom house on the Caribbean Island of Grand Cayman that they were happy with; however during Hurricane Ivan, the roof came off and the house's metal frame twisted. Phil and Nancy were immediately homeless after the storm, but not property-less; they moved into a 3 room cottage where they have been living for the past 7 years.

After some time passed by, they decided to look for a new house, but after spending time researching many homes on the island, they couldn't find a home that suited them, so they decided to build. But the question was, what were they going to build?

Phil and Nancy hired an architect friend to design their new home and came up with a 3 story design that passed through planning. But prior to submitting to the Island's Building Control Unit (BCU), they sat down with a Quantity Surveyor and he showed them that they were standing on a financial precipice, so they backed off. More time passed by and eventually the couple decided to come up with an alternative design. Nancy spent time researching small house plans on the Internet and one of the first plans that popped up was Davis Frame's Japanese Tea House. Nancy thought, "Oh, that's nice," and continued her research.

Original Japanese Tea House rendering

Phil and Nancy drew, printed and adjusted many self-designed floor plans. They wanted to get their thoughts and ideas in order before again involving an architect to design their home. The first time they began the design process, they were not sure what they were looking for, but this time they had a pretty good idea. Phil and Nancy spent many nights tweaking many of the plans they found online. They would sit down and discuss the plans they tweaked, put the plans away, and look at them a couple of weeks later. Sometimes after revisiting they would tweak again and other times they would start all over. Finally, they chose the Japanese Tea House and decided this was the plan they wanted to work with..........

To read the rest of the story,visit our website! If you are interested in learning more about our timber frames or this Caribbean timber frame home, call 1-800-636-0993!

A Timber Frame Home for the Holidays

2011-12-20T15:18:00.000-05:00

A few years ago, we decorated our timber frame model home for the holidays! A few of us got together and hung the lights outside, decorated the tree and furnished the remainder of the home with holiday decor. We also had it professionally photographed and we've included the photos in this blog post.

The Davis Frame timber frame model home features 2,500 square feet, 2 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms and an open and spacious first floor. Upon entering our model home, a bedroom is located to the left and the open concept great room and dining room are to the right. To the left of the dining room is the kitchen and a full bathroom.

Timber frame stairs lead to the second floor master bedroom and bathroom. A loft opens to below and is the perfect place to enjoy a cup of cocoa and capture a view of the beautiful hammer beam truss.

The model also features a full finished walk-out basement and has plenty of room to add more bedrooms.

The cathedral-ceiling great room features a wall of windows allowing for plenty of natural light. A hammer beam truss graces the timber frame great room and can also be enjoyed from the second floor loft.

Custom white cabinets is a nice contrast to the Douglas fir timbers.

The timber framed master bedroom features a soaring ceiling.

The master bathroom is located off the master bedroom and creates the perfect spa like feel.

Our timber frame model home in New Hampshire is available for tours! If you are interested in touring our facilities call us at 1-800-636-0993 to schedule a visit.

Classic Homestead Timber Frame Plan Modified

2011-12-16T15:02:00.002-05:00

Our Classic Homestead 1 floor plan is one of our most popular timber frame floor plans under 2,000 square feet. We've taken our original Homestead floor plan and modified it to increase the second floor bedrooms. Many Davis Frame clients have built a variation of this home and the biggest change we saw our clients make was increasing the guest bedroom sizes. The 26'X40' dimensions remain the same, however the loft size has decreased in order to increase the bedroom sizes. We hope you like our new standard Classic Homestead floor plan!

This timber frame is 1,800 sf and features large and open living in a modest space. The kitchen opens dramatically to the cathedral-ceiling great room and dining room, giving this plan an open and spacious feel. The first floor also includes the master bedroom suite.

The second floor now hosts two good sized bedrooms, a full bathroom and a loft area that looks out over the first floor great room and dining room. This is the perfect floor plan for a small family!

If you are interested in learning more about our timber frame packages, contact us today by calling 1-800-636-0993!

Catskills New York Timber Frame Home

2011-12-14T11:20:00.001-05:00

We recently shipped a timber frame home package to the Catskills region of New York! This new vacation home is being built on a wooded lot that overlooks a pond below. The Catskills is the perfect place to build a weekend getaway, especially for those that are outdoor enthusiasts!

Our clients started with our Classic Homestead 1 floor plan and modified it to fit their needs. The modified floor plan will feature 1,912 square feet and will also include a screened in porch and an attached timber frame porte cochere.

Upon entering the home, the open concept timber frame great room and dining room will be located to the left and a den/office to the right. To the right of the dining room will be the kitchen, walk-in pantry, mudroom and bathroom.

The second floor will host the spacious master bedroom and bathroom. The second floor will also feature a loft that overlooks the first floor great room and dining room, allowing for a stunning view of the timbers and the great room wall of windows.

Check out some of the timber frame raising photos below!

We will be following the progress of this Catskills Timber Frame Home over the winter, so be sure to check back for updated photos. If you have any questions about this project or about our timber frame homes, call 1-800-636-0993 to speak with one of our project coordinators today!

Water Color Greeting Cards

2011-12-09T10:11:00.000-05:00

We are proud to showcase a special banner on our blog for the month of December! This holiday banner was created using two timber frame water color paintings, hand painted by Sheree Vogt.

Sheree is a talented artist and hand paints using water color; she often turns her paintings into greeting cards. Her website features water color holiday greeting cards and many other designs that can be used for a birthday, thank you or as a thinking of you card. Check out her water color greeting cards today!

The Fells Holiday House Tour in Sunapee New Hampshire

2011-12-07T11:30:00.000-05:00

Front view of timber frame home in Sunapee, NH

Looking for something to do this coming weekend? Attend the Fells Holiday Open House Tour in Sunapee, New Hampshire! Tour six of Sunapee's most beautiful homes all decked out for the holidays. Some of the homes are on the lake and others have a view of Sunapee Mountain. We are pleased to share that one of our client's timber frame homes was chosen to be part of the tour.

Tickets are $20 in advance and can be picked up at MJ Harrington's in Newport, Rosewood Barn and General Store in Sunapee, New London Information Booth and at the Fells House in Newbury. Tickets are also available on both event days for $25. Ticket holders will receive a program and a map of the tour route. Headquarters opens at 9:45am for ticket sales and maps on both days. House Tour Headquarters is located at LSPA (Knowlton House), 63 Main Street, Sunapee Harbor.

To learn more about our featured home on the tour, check out the description below.

This timber frame home features 3,500 square feet and was designed to entertain friends and family at the lake. Upon entering the home, the kitchen, dining room, office and screened in porch are located on the left and a luxurious master bedroom suite is located to the right of the entrance. Straight ahead is a large 30x26 cathedral-ceiling great room. The second floor features two spacious guest bedrooms and a shared bathroom. The second floor also opens up to the great room and is the perfect place to enjoy the timber framing as well as the beautiful view of Lake Sunapee.

A two car garage is also featured on the property and features guest quarters above, including two bedrooms and a bathroom.

Cathedral Ceiling timber frame great room

Rear view of the home

Don't miss the chance to see this spectacular Davis Timber Frame Home! Visit the Fells website for more information.

If you would like more information about our timber frame homes, please call 1-800-636-0993 today!

Update on Cape Cod Timber Frame Home

2011-12-02T11:49:00.001-05:00

We just received updated photos of one of our client's timber frame homes on Cape Cod! This new custom home is truly a beauty and captures a beautiful view of a nearby pond. The new home features 3,551 square feet with plenty of space to entertain guests.

The first floor features an open concept timber frame great room, dining room and kitchen. To the left of the great room is the library/media room. A solarium and screened in porch is also located on the first floor.

The second floor hosts the master bedroom suite as well as 3 guest bedrooms and 2 additional full bathrooms. A widows walk will be accessible from the second floor screened-in porch and is a great place to enjoy waterfront views.

Check out some of the finished interior photos below.

Second floor bedroom

The loft overlooks the first floor and captures a beautiful view of the timbers

The skylights in the master bedroom lets in lots of natural light. A balcony is also accessible from the master and is a great place to enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning.

The master bathroom

Are you looking to build a new timber frame home in Eastern Massachusetts or Cape Cod? Contact our local representative, Bay Colony Timber Frame today by calling 508-259-7137!

Flexible Timber Frame Floor Plans

2011-11-23T10:21:00.000-05:00

Classic Homestead Timber Frame Home

At Davis Timber Frame, we offer a variety of pre-designed timber frame plans on our website. Often our clients like to start out with one of our standard designs and modify it to fit their wants and needs. All of our plans offer flexibility and no one plan has been built exactly alike. So whether you choose one of our pre-designed floor plans or work with us on a custom design, we will make sure your new timber frame home is truly your own.

Below is an example of how our plans are flexible. The first photo shows our original Classic Homestead 1 timber frame plan. The next three photos show how the first floor has been modified. Not every standard floor plan you see will meet your needs and timber framing allows flexibility due to its nature of creating open spaces. We can easily move rooms around within the dimensions or we can add to the dimensions if you need additional space.

Check out our modified Classic Homestead plans below! Enlarge the photo to see the details on what has changed from the original plan.

Original Classic Homestead 1 first floor plan

Alternate first floor 1

Alternate first floor 2

Alternate first floor 3

Call us today to learn more about our flexible timber frame plans! 1-800-636-0993

Caribbean Timber Frame Home Under Construction

2011-11-16T16:00:00.000-05:00

We are very excited to share photos of our latest project, a timber frame home in the Caribbean! Jeff Davis, President of Davis Frame Company is down in the Cayman Islands this week assisting the crew with the timber frame raising.

This new home will consist of 3 timber frame pods. The center pod will feature the main living space including the living room, dining room and kitchen. The pod to the right will host the luxurious master bedroom suite and the pod to the left will feature 2 guest bedroom suites. Each pod will feature a deck and in the center of the property will be a pool facing the ocean. Can you saw WOW?

First timber frame post raised into place.

All the timber frame posts on pod 1 are secured.

Timber frame truss raised on pod 1.

The spectacular ocean front view a walk away from this new Caribbean home.

Check back for more updates on this Caribbean timber frame home! We look forward to sharing the progress with you over the next few months. To learn more about our timber frame homes, call us today at 1-800-636-0993!

Finished Prefab Home in Massachusetts

2011-11-09T14:14:00.004-05:00

At Davis Timber Frame, we not only manufacture timber frame homes, but also panelized homes too! We developed our eSIPS panelized home line to create a new energy efficient alternative way to build a new home. Conventional construction methods not only take more time to build, but also are usually less efficient.

Our eSIPS Homes have become quite popular and we recently hosted a photo shoot at one of our homes in Massachusetts. This modern prefab home was built using our eSIPS panelized wall and roof system, premium Eagle Windows and cedar siding. The home features 3,200 sf with 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms and attached 3 car garage.

The first floor features an open plan with the kitchen, dining room and living open to one another. This open concept setup is also bright and airy making this a perfect area to entertain guests. The media room and office is located to left of the kitchen. The second floor hosts 4 bedrooms, each with their own bathroom. Adding adjoining bathrooms to bedrooms other than the master bedroom has become a huge trend.

Gather design ideas for your new home project and check out the photos below!

Modern kitchen

The kitchen opens up into the dining room

This modern bathroom suites the remainder of the home's decor style

The rear of the home features lots of windows and allows for plenty of natural light

Our eSIPS panelized homes are a great alternative to conventional construction and provide an energy efficient structure that you will enjoy for many years to come. Visit our website to learn more about our timber frame and panelized homes or call 1-800-636-0993 today!

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-11-04T11:40:00.000-04:00

Alaska Timber Frame Raising

We often receive the questions, "Where do you ship your timber frames?" and "How do we work together when we are states apart?" These are both very good questions and concerns!

We ship our timber frame packages nationwide and have done so for years. Although our headquarters is located in New Hampshire, with today's technology, we can work with you remotely just as well as work with our clients in person. We use an online meeting tool called Go To Meeting and use the program all the time to meet with our clients virtually. This program enables us to go over your home design in detail as well as discuss your timber frame package material choices. We have worked with clients who have built on the west coast, Alaska, Florida and even the Caribbean.

How do we ship your timber frame? Every timber frame package is loaded onto a flatbed truck and delivered directly to your site and built by your builder of choice. For our Caribbean timber frame project, we loaded the timbers into a shipping container and it was shipped by boat to the Cayman Islands.

Timbers loaded onto flatbed truck

We also have several Independent Representatives around the country, including reps on the east coast, mid-atlantic and west coast. To see if there is a rep near you, visit our website! If we don't have a rep in your area, one of our in-house project coordinators will assist you with your project. To talk to one of our project coordinators, call 1-800-636-0993 today!

Timber Frame Living in Vermont

2011-11-03T13:08:00.000-04:00

The Hillside Haven

Our featured timber frame home today is called the Hillside Haven. This timber frame home was built in a small Vermont village back in 1995. The homeowners of this timber frame are originally from New England, but moved to Arizona in the 1980's. After their children settled in New England, the couple decided to build a vacation home where they would live during the summer and the holidays.

The Hillside Haven is just under 3,000 square feet and offers a floor plan with a nice open flow. Upon entering the home the cathedral ceiling timber frame great room is straight ahead. To the right of the great room is an open concept kitchen and dining area. To the left of the great room is a spacious master bedroom suite. The second floor hosts two guest bedrooms and a full bathroom. Did I mention the spectacular views this home has? The timber frame home looks over a small Vermont village. The great room and master bedroom capture the beautiful Vermont scenery.

Cathedral ceiling timber frame great room

The open concept kitchen and dining room look out over a village in Vermont

The timber frame den is the perfect place to curl up and enjoy a book

Visit our website to learn more about our timber frames or call 1-800-636-0993 to speak with one of our project coordinators!

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-10-28T11:13:00.002-04:00

King Post Truss

Is there a price difference between the various style timber frame bent and truss systems?

Yes, the prices vary from the timber frame bent and truss options. Some frame styles are more elaborate and detailed, while other styles feature a more simple design. The two most common timber frame systems used today to build timber frames are either common rafter frames or common purlin frames.

Listed below are the different timber frame systems we offer from the most expensive to the least expensive.

Hammer Beam Truss

Queen Post Truss

King Post Truss

Principal Purlin Common Rafter

Collar Tie Common Rafter

Ridge Beam Common Rafter

Visit our website to learn more about the different timber frame bent and truss options. To request more information about Davis Frame Company, call 1-800-636-0993!

Modern Colonial Home Featuring Post and Beam Construction

2011-10-26T12:07:00.000-04:00

Very popular in the American colonies from 1690 to 1830, the distinctive features of a colonial style home include the squared, symmetrical shape, and straight aligned windows on the first and second floor. Over the years, we have designed and crafted post and beam style colonial homes for several clients. Most of our colonial home plans have been updated to accommodate modern day living by featuring open floor plans. The colonial post and beam home we are featuring today is a custom designed version of a traditional colonial home. This beautiful home was built 16 years ago in New Jersey and has continued to be a favorite Davis Timber Frame Home over the years.

This post and beam living room features 8 foot ceilings and is a cozy place to enjoy a fire.

The kitchen and dining room open up into the cathedral ceiling timber frame great room.

A view of the great room timber frame hammer beam truss

A view of the post and beam colonial

Interested in learning more about our post and beam homes? Call us today at 1-800-636-0993!

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-10-21T12:05:00.001-04:00

South facing timber frame home

"I want to build an energy efficient home, is a timber frame home energy efficient?

At Davis Frame Company, we pride ourselves on creating timber frame homes that are not only beautiful but also energy efficient. The first step to creating an energy efficient timber frame home starts during the design process. Our design team incorporate passive solar design techniques into every home we design. Some of the most important elements to consider is to decide on window placement and focus on southern exposure to maximize natural light. Also, your landscape is also an important element in creating a home that focuses on retaining heat as well as incorporating elements to keep your new home cool during the warmer months. Read our blog post on passive solar design!

In our weather tight shell package, we offer Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs). SIPs are one of the most energy efficient forms of insulation available on the market today. We offer a couple different SIP options, both featuring high r-values in the wall and roof panels. SIPs create such a tight shell and often an air exchange system is needed in the home. SIPs naturally keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. We also provide energy efficient window and door options in our package. Windows can be a huge source for heat loss and we only offer quality and efficient window options in our packages. We can also recommend other products that will increase your new timber frame home's efficiency (geothermal heating, solar, etc...)

To learn more about our timber frame homes, call us today at 1-800-636-0993!

Timber Frame Home Show in Massachusetts

2011-10-19T12:49:00.000-04:00

W. Springfield Home Show in 2010

Join us at the Log and Timber Frame Home Show in West Springfield, Massachusetts November 4-6th! Attending a home show is a great way to gather ideas and meet with different companies about your new plans to build a timber frame home. Make sure to stop by Davis Frame Company's both to pickup a brochure and talk to our representatives!

Show Details:

Friday, November 4, 2011

11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday, November 5, 2011

10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday, November 6, 2011

10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Booth #: 404

Location:

Eastern States Exposition

The Young Building

1305 Memorial Ave (Rte. 147)

West Springfield, MA 01089

To find out more about our upcoming events, visit our timber frame events page or call us at 1-800-636-0993!

Fall Decorated Timber Frame Homes

2011-10-14T14:34:00.000-04:00

There is nothing like decorating a timber frame home for the different seasons! Whether its decorating with mums and pumpkins or holiday decorations, timber frames offer warmth and beauty. Below are photos of a few Davis Timber Frame homes decorated for fall.

This timber frame dining room is perfect for entertaining guests, especially with the view of the fireplace.

This timber frame kitchen features an eat-in area and a fireplace. It's old world charm is warm and inviting.

This Vermont vacation retreat is a perfect place to enjoy the foliage.

This timber frame cabin is ready for the colder months.

There is nothing like a fire in the fireplace on a chilly fall day.

To find out more about our timber frame homes, call us at 1-800-636-0993. Check out more of our timber frame photos!

Planning Your Timber Frame Kitchen

2011-10-13T14:45:00.002-04:00

For most of our clients, the kitchen in their new timber frame home is one of their main focuses during the home design process. During the design phase, you will want to think about how you envision your new kitchen. Below are some important elements to consider for your timber frame kitchen.

1. Are you looking for a large gourmet kitchen for cooking and entertaining? Or are you looking for a modest and functional kitchen for every day cooking?

2. Where do you want to place the kitchen in your new home's floor plan? Are there views you want to take advantage of?

3. Do you want your kitchen to be open to the other main living areas of the home (great room and dining room) or do you want the kitchen to be separate?

4. Do you want to incorporate timbers into your kitchen design or keep it the design conventional?

5. Will the kitchen feature an eat-in area?

6. Are you looking to add an island for additional counter space and seating?

7. Do you want to add a walk-in pantry for extra storage?

All of the above are questions you may want to ask yourself. Most of us who choose to build a new home, only build once and its important to factor in all the different elements.

This timber frame kitchen features an open concept kitchen and dining room. The great room is also open to this space, making this the perfect setup for holiday entertaining. A center island increases storage space and is perfect for a food prep area.

An island is added to this kitchen design to increase the counter and storage space. The kitchen is separated from the great room and dining room, however, it does feature an eat-in area not shown.

The hilltop timber frame kitchen features a cathedral ceiling and is fully timber framed. The kitchen was also designed to face the south to maximize natural light. This kitchen is also separate from the other main living areas of the home, however, the large doorways

Are you looking to build a new timber frame home or addition and would like more information? Call us today at 1-800-636-0993 and we will send you a free brochure!

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-10-07T11:05:00.000-04:00

Timber frame great room with sheetrocked ceiling

I like the timber frame look but my wife thinks there is "too much wood," how do we compromise? Can I create a timber frame home that has less wood?

We receive this question from time to time and it's a great question. There are definitely ways to design and build a timber frame home with less wood. To achieve a less woody look, often our client's will not use the pine T&G on the ceiling (most of our homes feature T&G), but will opt for a sheet rock ceiling instead. Also, keep the design simple and choose a timber frame system that has less timbers. You can design your timber frame over the top with timbers or you can design it to accent the home without being overwhelming. Our design team can design your home any way you want it and we can recommend a timber frame system that works with your design preferences.

Another suggestion is to consider a hybrid timber frame home. A hybrid system usually features timber framing only in the main living areas of the home and the remainder of the home is conventionally built. A hybrid timber frame is a great compromise for couples who can't decide on whether to build a timber frame home or conventional home.

Lower ceiling timber frame kitchen with a sheet rock ceiling

Call 1-800-636-0993 today to speak to one of our project coordinators about your upcoming project!

Pennsylvania Timber Frame Home Photos

2011-10-06T15:57:00.000-04:00

We just received the photos from our September photo shoot in Pennsylvania and the home is a beauty! This custom timber frame home features 2,827 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms. The first floor is open and spacious, a perfect setup for hosting large gatherings.

Upon entering the home, the atrium is located straight ahead and the open concept timber frame dining room, kitchen and great room are to the right. To the right of the timber frame great room is the mudroom, laundry room, half bathroom and the attached two car garage. To the left of the atrium is the luxurious master bedroom suite. A timber frame farmer's porch is located off of the master bedroom suite and is the perfect place to wind down.

The second floor features two guest bedroom suites, each equipped with their own bathroom. A study and open loft is also located on the second floor.

A view of the timber frame atrium and great room

Open concept kitchen and dining room

Guest timber frame bedroom

Rear view of timber frame home

Visit our website to check out all the photos of this timber frame home! If you're interested in receiving information about our timber frame homes, call us today at 1-800-636-0993.

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-09-30T11:03:00.000-04:00

Doug and Leanne Smith, Pacific Northwest Davis Timber Frame representatives

Why work with a Davis Frame Independent Representative?

At Davis Frame Company, we have several Independent Representatives around the country. One of the primary benefits of working with one of our timber frame Independent Representatives is that you will have local representation. Our reps will meet with you at your building site to do a site evaluation. During this visit, they will help you determine how you will want to position your new home to take advantage of natural light and views. Your local representative will be able to provide you with budget information, a project timeline and assist you with any technical questions you may have about timber frames. They will also work with you during the design process of your new home as well as help you choose the materials for your timber frame package. Our reps work closely with our design staff at our New Hampshire headquarters as well as with our Sales Manager Peter. If we do not have a representative in your area, one of our project coordinators will assist you with your project.

Visit our Find Your Local Rep page today to see if we have a representative that services your area. Call us today at 1-800-636-0993 to learn more about our products and services!

Timber Frame Open House in Vermont

2011-09-28T13:58:00.000-04:00

Join Davis Frame Company for our 3rd annual OkTIMBERfest open house in East Wallingford, Vermont on Saturday, October 15th! East Wallingford is located in the heart of Vermont's ski country, it's close to both Okemo Mountain and Killington Mountain.

This timber frame home, almost complete, was designed with entertaining in mind and features an open and spacious first floor plan. Also located on the first floor is the master bedroom suite. The second floor hosts two guest bedrooms and a bathroom. The finished walkout basement will include a large family room, recreating area, mini bar and wine cellar as well as an additional guest bedroom. This timber frame home is perfect to entertain overnight guests after spending the day on the slopes!

Location: East Wallingford, Vermont

Date: Saturday, October 15, 2010

Time: 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Enjoy a scenic drive through New England and enjoy the fall foliage. Check out out recommendations below for fun stops along the way to the open house.

From I91:

Heading north on I91, take exit 6, follow Route 5 and stop at the Vermont Country Store, a popular destination spot on your way to the open house. The Vermont Country Store sells old fashion candy, local Vermont cheeses, Vermont Maple Syrup and many unique items you can't find anywhere else. They now have a lunch stand at the store run by the Heritage Bakery in Chester. The open house is 40 minutes from the Vermont Country Store. If you're interested in learning more about this scenic route to East Wallingford, call us at 1-800-636-0993 today!

From I89:

Take exit 1 (Quechee/Woodstock) on I89. Along the way to East Wallingford is Simon Pearce and the Long Trail Brewing Company. Simon Pearce sells beautiful hand blown glass pieces and features a quaint restaurant to have lunch at their Quechee location. Stop by the Long Trail Factory to sample the fall seasonal beers. Quechee is an hour from the open house event. Call us and we will send you directions to the open house from I89 to Route 4 which leads you to East Wallingford.

Don't miss out on seeing this spectacular Vermont Timber Frame Home! Call 1-800-636-0993 today to register.

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-09-23T10:41:00.001-04:00

Davis Frame co-owner Rick Bascom assisting with a frame raising

Do I need to hire a builder with timber frame experience?

Often our clients ask us if they need to choose a builder who is familiar with timber frame construction. The answer is no; however, if your builder does not have timber frame and SIPs experience, we recommend hiring a technical advisor to assist with the raising. Timber framing is a specialty construction and should be overseen by a builder who is experienced in erecting a timber frame. We also use Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) in our timber frame packages and not all builders are familiar with SIPs construction.

At Davis Frame Company, we offer technical advisor services. We can also recommend timber frame erectors in your area. If you choose this option, an experienced team of timber frame erectors or an advisor will assist with the timber frame and SIPs installation and your builder will be responsible for the remainder construction of your home. The process is the same after the timber frame and SIPs portion is built.

If you are interested in learning more about our timber frame homes and services, call us today at 1-800-636-0993!

Insulated Enclosures for Your New Timber Frame Home

2011-09-21T14:38:00.001-04:00

Timber frame and SIPs home

At Davis Frame Company, we offer a couple different options for insulation in our weather tight shell packages. We primarily use Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) with our timber frame homes, however, we do manufacture our own panelized home system, eSIPS that can be used with timber frame homes or as a standalone prefab ome.

We will go over the two different types of structural panel systems. Both offer a high performance system that will lower your heating and cooling bills. Both systems are shipped in wall and roof panel sections and can cut your building time in half.

Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) are one of the most convenient and energy efficient forms of insulation available to the building market today. SIPs are considered to be high-performance with generous r-values for the wall and roof panels. Typical SIPs systems consist of a solid foam core "sandwiched" between two pieces of oriented strand board (OSB). SIPs can be used as a standalone system and they also are widely used in the timber frame industry.

SIPs panels being used on a timber frame home

Our sister company, Energy Smart Panels, eSIPS, offers a similar product to Structural Insulated Panels with a few exceptions: eSIPS leaves the inside of the wall open or "exposed" so that mechanicals can easily be installed; second, the foam infill features a soy-based insulation; third, we do not use OSB, but rather 2x6 and 2x10 dimensional framing lumber. Our spray foam insulation of choice integrates renewable ingredients to use petroleum in the foam. eSIPS is a great stand alone panelized home system and also works well with timber frame homes.

eSIPS panelized system

If you're interested in learning more about our insulation options in our timber frame home packages, contact us today by calling 1-800-636-0993!

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-09-16T14:14:00.000-04:00

How Do I Find the Right House Plan?

From our Spring 2006 Newsletter

Finding the right timber frame plan isn't easy--but we have some suggestions on how to narrow down your search. First, if you're going to be financing your home, talk to a timber-frame friendly banker to find out how much home you can afford to build. Second, consider your living needs and family lifestyle. Are you newly married? How many children do you plan to have? Will there be room for your family to grow? Make the most of an open plan, and think about how you would add on to the house. Also, consider a finished basement for additional space. Don't forget visitors! Will you need space for frequent overnight guests or elderly parents? How much entertaining do you plan to do?

If you're planning a retirement home, a ranch style might fit well with your needs. Plan for plenty of entertaining space, as well as extra sleeping quarters for visiting children and grandchildren. Next, compare your existing home to your dream home. Look at room sizes and how you use them. Do they need to be bigger, or do they have wasted space? Will you need a home office with a private bathroom and separate entrance? Measure out the furniture you plan to have in the room, together with the overall room dimensions to see if everything fits.

Don't forget to think about privacy. How much will you need, and where do you need it? Most timber frame plans have open floor plans, so look at the location of the bedrooms, especially the master bedroom. If you are an early-to-bed-early-to-rise person and have overnight guests, is the bedroom far enough away from the activity? Also, consider how much privacy you need from neighbors. An L or U shaped floor plan might be right for you.

The design doesn't stop at the walls. Consider your outdoor living space, including garages, pools, landscaping, gardens, decks, patios, and porches for entertaining and enjoying the outdoors.

Take a look at the timber frame homes on our websites and give us a call or email with any questions, we can help you! 1-800-636-0993

New Timber Frame Home Under Construction in Vermont

2011-09-14T14:40:00.002-04:00

Our latest timber frame project is in Orange County Vermont. Rick Bascom, co-owner of Davis Frame Company assisted the client's builder with the timber frame raising last week. This new timber frame home will feature 2,420 square feet, 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Upon entering the home, the great room will be located straight ahead and the dining room and kitchen will be to the right. To the right of the main living area is a first floor laundry room and small area for an office. A screened in porch will be accessible through dining room. The spacious master bedroom suite will be located to the left of the great room. The second floor will host 2 guest bedrooms and a shared a bathroom. The new home will also feature an attached two car garage, a must to survive Vermont winters!

Timber frame assembly

Drilling holes for the oak pegs. The timbers are secured by traditional mortise and tenon joinery

First timber frame bent raised into place

Douglas fir timber frame

The main part of the frame is raised into place

We will have more pictures to share as the project progresses. To keep track of this project, visit the jobsite gallery on our website. To speak with a project coordinator about your upcoming project, call us today at 1-800-636-0993!

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-09-09T15:42:00.001-04:00

Classic Farmhouse

I want to build a timber frame home, how can I keep the costs down?

The most cost effective way to build a Davis Timber Frame home is to consider one of our pre-designed Classic Barn Home plans. All of our Classic Barn plans are flexible and modifying one of the plans to fit your needs will likely still be more cost effective than designing a timber frame home from scratch. A compact design that has less exterior wall and roof area, and a plan that has fewer breaks in the exterior building plane (i.e. dormers, valleys, gables, bump outs, etc.) is more efficient in the use of materials and labor is less expensive to build. The bottom line is keep the design simple if your budget is limited.

Also, when choosing a timber frame system, ask your project coordinator what the cost differences are between the different bent and truss options. For example, a common rafter system will be more economical than opting for a bent system. If you do choose a bent system, Queens or King Post trusses are less expensive than the more elaborate designs, such as a Hammer Beam truss.

Common rafter frame

Finally, hybrid construction could be used to stay within budget. Consider timber framing for the more public areas of your home and use Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) with conventional framing for the bedroom and bathroom wings. Using conventional framing in the wings is a great way to save money.

Our combined experience in many types of construction allows our design team to develop creative solutions for specific design ideas to help stay within budget.

Call 1-800-636-0993 today to speak to one of our project coordinators about your upcoming project!

The Importance of Vented Roofs

2011-09-07T15:17:00.002-04:00

Example of a vented roof on a timber frame/SIPs home

We have a great archive of helpful articles from our past newsletters. One topic we thought we would share on our blog is about vented roofs and what our recommendation is for our timber frame homes.

A New/Old Standard-Vented Roofs
From Fall 2006 newsletter

One element of construction has always been important for a healthy, happy and high performing home-- "cold" or "vented" roofs. A vented roof system is an air space (cavity) between the roofing material and roof insulation, specifically between the roofing material and the exterior skin of the roof panel.

Davis Frame Company's standard vented roof system is 1x3 strapping applied to the roof panels at 16" on center in alignment with the roof slope, and then a layer of 7/16" OSB roof sheathing applied to the top of the strapping as the roofing material nail base. This venting system must be accompanied with an eave vent and roof ridge vent to allow air flow through the cavity. This will remove any moisture that could cause deterioration of the roof panels or roofing materials. Airflow is the key to having a "cold" roof and a properly working vented roof system.

What kind of benefits can you expect from a vented roof system? The possibility of ice damming, which can cause roof leaks and shingle lifting will be dramatically reduced. Water leakage through the panel, which can cause interior ceiling water stains and mold, is prevented, providing a healthy home for your family. If you are building in an area that receives cold weather and a lot of snow, a vented roof is a must! Also, increased performance of the roof reduces the heating and cooling needs, which means cost savings for you.

An increased life expectancy of roof panels and roofing materials, and an enhanced performance of both items can be expected with a vented roof system. Both asphalt roofing suppliers and Structural Insulated Panel (SIPs) companies recommend a vented roof system in any application of their products--in fact, most shingle suppliers will not warrant their product without a vented roof.

Standing seam roof systems benefit from the vented roof as well. The panel manufacturers recommend this system on top of their roof products, allowing any moisture that condensates below the standing seam and/or moisture evaporating out of the home to be removed out through the vented cavity.

When constructing a new home that you expect will last your lifetime it is important that details like a vented roof system, or "cold roof" are incorporated. To maintain a warranty on your new home products, be familiar with their application and/or installation in order to guarantee they will perform to their potential. Remember a good "cold roof" can keep your new home happy, healthy and performing at its best.

If you're interested in learning more about our timber frame packages, contact us today by calling 1-800-636-0993!

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-09-02T10:20:00.000-04:00

Timber frame great room

What is the difference between timber frame and post and beam?

Most people use the terms "timber frame" and "post and beam" interchangeably. There are some similarities; however, there are a few major differences that you will want to consider when starting to interview companies. Both timber frame structures and post and beam structures leave timbers exposed on the inside of the building. Unless there are timbers on the exterior, such as an entry porch, from the outside both types look like any conventional home.

Timber framing, however, differs from post and beam construction in two major ways: 1) timber framing does not rely on any bolts, clamps, or exposed metal plates to join timber posts (vertical members) and beams (horizontal members). Instead, timbers are joined together using mortise and tenon joinery and then fastened with hardwood pegs; at Davis Frame Company, we use oak pegs. The weight of the structure is transferred through the vertical members and transferred to the foundation. 2) With timber frame construction, the horizontal timbers are mortised into the vertical posts, and the posts run from the first floor to the roof. When the timbers dry, they shrink but a timber frame will not settle. Because a post and beam frame is stacked on top of the horizontal timbers, the frame may settle a noticeable amount, causing cracks or separation in the finished home. Another difference is that timber frame bents walls are assembled on the deck and raised into place by a crane, whereas posts and beams are assembled and fastened together one at a time.

Timber frame raising

Timber frame with mortise and tenon joinery

Both systems are safe, beautiful and will last for years; it really depends on your personal preference as to which kind of timber home you will build.

At Davis Frame Company, we use traditional timber framing techniques combined with modern technology to build beautiful and energy efficient timber frame homes. To learn more about our timber frame packages, contact us today by calling 1-800-636-0993!

***Question answered in our fall 2006 newsletter

Oregon Timber Frame Open House

2011-08-30T13:54:00.000-04:00

Join Doug and Leanne Smith, Independent Representatives for Davis Frame Company in the Pacific Northwest for an open house this fall! The Smith's timber frame home and carriage house are both completely off-grid. Their home was recently voted "Timber Frame Home of the Year," by the Timber Frame Business Council.

The solar timber frame home features 2,850 square feet with 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. A guest timber frame carriage house is also located on their 27 acre property. The Smith's know a lot about what it means to live green, you won't want to miss this open house event!

Date: Saturday, October 1st

Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Location: 67775 Cloverdale Rd.

Sisters, Oregon

For more information on this open house event, contact the Smith's today by calling 541-977-8285!

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-08-26T11:25:00.001-04:00

What Does Davis Frame Recommend for a Heating System?

We highly recommend radiant heat and most of our clients choose radiant heat for their new timber frame homes. Radiant heat is the most popular central heating system on the market today.

So what is radiant heat? Heating tubes or panels, which can be installed in any type of floor system, are heated by either water pipes, electric elements, or air channels embedded in the channel. Water pipes are most popular, as they are very versatile and can be heated with virtually any utility, including natural gas, oil, propane, wood, solar or electricity. Air is warmed gently so hot air doesn't rise and stay at the ceiling. Unlike convective heating systems (forced hot air and baseboard), which may have significant temperature variations between the floor and ceiling, radiant heat varies only 2-4 degrees F.

Radiant heat not only increases comfort but also helps lower utility bills. Thermostat settings are kept lower while you stay cozy, multiple zones can be set up to regulate unused rooms, and the use of thermal mass for off-peak storage can all reduce energy bills.

An added benefit is improved air quality. Allergy sufferers notice a big difference with radiant heat, no big blasts of hot air stir up dust and dirt in the home. The result is a cleaner and healthier air.

Clean, healthy, comfortable, energy-efficient, safe and cost competitive, radiant heat is the way to go when you are building a new timber frame home or any style home. There are a variety of different radiant heat brands, just do your research and make sure you find a good installer! If you would like to know the radiant heat companies our clients have used, give us a call today at 1-800-636-0993. Build your new home beautifully and energy efficient.

This Mascoma Lake timber frame home has radiant heat throughout the home

Fall Timber Frame Home Shows

2011-08-25T15:55:00.001-04:00

Davis Frame will be attending two of The Log and Timber Frame Home Shows this fall. We hope you will be able to visit our booth at one of these upcoming events. Check out the show details below:

The Log and Timber Frame Home Show-West Springfield, Massachusetts

Dates/Show Hours

Friday, November 4, 2011
11 am - 6 pm

Saturday, November 5, 2011
10 am - 6 pm

Sunday, November 6, 2011
10 am - 4 pm

Booth #: 404

Location:
Eastern States Exposition-The Young Building
1305 Memorial Ave. (Rte. 147)
West Springfield, MA 01089

Click here for directions......

______________________________________________

The Log and Timber Frame Home Show-Secaucus, New Jersey

Dates/Show Hours
Friday, November 11, 2011
1 pm - 7 pm

Saturday, November 5, 2011
10 am - 6 pm

Sunday, November 6, 2011
10 am - 4 pm

Booth #: 518

Location:
Meadowlands Exposition center
355 Plaza Drive
Secaucus, NJ 07094

Click here for directions......

Check out some of our events page to learn more about our upcoming falls events, including timber frame open houses!

Alaska Timber Frame Home Under Construction

2011-08-24T10:57:00.002-04:00

Our latest project is a timber frame home in Alaska! Independent Representatives, Doug and Leanne Smith worked with our client in Alaska on their new timber frame home project near Kenai Lake. The Davis Frame timber frame is set on a lot that captures a beautiful view of the nearby lake and mountains.

This 3,615 square foot timber frame home was custom designed by a local Alaska Design Company, Alaska Plan Service. The home was designed to maximize the views of the mountain and lake nearby. To capture the views from the great room, the floor plan is reversed with the main living area on the second floor and the bedrooms on the first floor. The first floor of the home will host a large master suite, guest bedroom and bathroom as well as the laundry room. The second floor features a large great room that opens into the kitchen and dining area. Off of the kitchen is a large pantry. A half bathroom is also located on the second floor. There is also a lower level that will host a shop for the homeowner, as well as an office, craft room and storage.

Visit our jobsite photos for more photos of this timber frame raising in Alaska!

Call us today at 1-800-636-0993 to learn more about our timber frame homes!

Fall Timber Frame Open House in Vermont

2011-08-23T15:38:00.000-04:00

We are proud to announce the location of our annual OkTIMBERfest event! Our fall timber frame open house event will be in Wallingford, Vermont. Wallingford, Vermont is located in the heart of Vermont's ski country; it's only 15 minutes from Okemo Mountain and 30 minutes from Killington. Join us and tour this recently built timber frame home and enjoy fall inspired refreshments!

Our featured timber frame home is called the Vermonter and has 5,591 sf and was designed to entertain friends and family. The first floor features a spacious and open floor plan with a first floor luxurious master bedroom suite. The second floor hosts two guest bedrooms, a shared bath and an open loft that overlooks the great room. A finished basement is also included in the plan and this space will feature a large entertaining space, mini bar, wine cellar and an additional guest bedroom and bathroom. This home is truly spectacular and is a must see! Check out the construction photos for this new timber frame home in Vermont.

Enjoy a scenic drive through New England and enjoy the foliage. To register and receive directions for this open house event, give us a call at 1-800-636-0993!

The original "Vermonter" built in 2000

Solar Home in Oregon Wins Timber Frame Home of the Year!

2011-08-22T13:24:00.001-04:00

Davis Frame is proud to announce that one of our timber frame home's won the title "Timber Frame Home of the Year" by the Timber Frame Business Council! Independent Representative's Doug and Leanne Smith's Platinum Earth Advantage certified solar timber frame home in Oregon won the title and the home couldn't be more deserving. The Smith's home is not only beautiful, but is also off-grid and very energy efficient.

The Smith's timber frame home is 2,850 square feet and features a spacious and open floor plan with 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Also on their 27 acre property is a guest timber frame carriage house that is also off-grid. The Smith's know a lot about what it means to live green!

Below are the energy efficient and green features of the timber frame home:

The home features Oregon-grown Douglas Fir timbers with old-world mortise/tenon joinery

Passive solar heating & cooling achieved by careful home & window placement & high R value walls & ceilings
Structural Insulated Panel Walls (R26) & ceiling (R-40) & floors (R-38 ) by using under-floor insulation eliminate need for air conditioning & minimize heating requirements;
Totally off-grid via 27 photovoltaic solar panels for electricity, domestic hot water and in-floor heating
Use of recycled/reclaimed building materials, i.e., reclaimed barn wood cabinets, barn wood ceilings and flooring; cork flooring, recycled metal counter tops & sconces
Energy smart appliances and lighting to minimize electrical power demand
Durable materials, i.e., travertine floors, recycled metal & granite counter tops & exterior stone skirt & concrete decks
Built-in wet/dry cleaning system for a cleaner, healthier home.
Gerard recycled metal roof with natural clay tile look
Insulated concrete/styrofoam walls
Water well & Cistern support low-water-use systems for plumbing & natural//xeriscape landscaping.

Are you looking to build a timber frame home? Call us today at 1-800-636-0993! If you are planning on building in the Pacific Northwest, give Doug and Leanne a call at 541-977-8285.

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-08-19T10:49:00.000-04:00

Where Do You Ship Your Homes?

Davis Frame Company is a national designer and manufacturer of timber frame homes. We work with clients throughout the U.S.A and have shipped timber frames in New England, Pennsylvania, Florida, Colorado, Oregon and Alaska. Currently we are working on an international project and will be shipping a timber frame package this fall to the Cayman Islands. We also have Independent Representatives that cover many regions of the U.S.A. If we do not have a rep in your area, you can work with one of our in-house project coordinators. With our online meeting tool, we are virtually able to work with clients from all over. Our timber frame packages are fabricated in our shop, then loaded onto flat bed trucks and your timber frame package is delivered directly to your jobsite.

Check out some of timber frame homes across the country:

Solar timber frame home in Oregon

Custom timber frame home in Washington

The Mountainside timber frame home in Colorado

Timber frame home on Myrtle Beach in South Carolina

Florida timber frame home

If you're interested in learning more about Davis Timber Frame Homes, call us today at 1-800-636-0993!

Eastern Massachusetts and Cape Cod Timber Frame Homes

2011-08-17T11:24:00.000-04:00

Bay Colony Timber Frame represents Davis Timber Frame Homes in Eastern Massachusetts, including the north and south shores, cape cod and the islands. Bay Colony Timber Frame is the combination of Steve Petty, Jason Hammer and Sam Sherman.

The Bay Colony Timber Frame team will work with you to make sure you create the timber frame you have always dreamed of. The first step will be to meet with you at your building site to provide a full site evaluation. This will help determine how your new home should be positioned to maximize views and natural lighting. Next, Bay Colony will work with you on the design of your new timber frame home or addition and assist you on choosing materials for your new home package. The Bay Colony Team has over 75 years of combined experience in home design, construction, land evaluation and permitting.

About Steve:

Steve Petty has been in the building industry since the 1970's. After years of being an associate of Jeff Davis, Steve became Davis Frame Company's Independent Representative for Eastern Massachusetts and Cape Cod and has worked on over 40 projects over the past 15 years. Steve's is also a talented designer and works with his clients on hand sketches. His client's appreciate his professionalism, enthusiasm and patience.

About Jason:

Jason Hammer met Steve Petty a few years ago while working as a builder on a couple of Steve's Davis Frame projects. Jason owns Caddis Construction, a residential construction company in Gloucester, Massachusetts. He is passionate about building and works closely with his clients to ensure they receive the results they desire, from the foundation to the finish work.

About Sam:

Sam, owner of Sam Sherman Associates on Martha's Vineyard has over 30 years of experience in home design and construction. Sam and Steve have worked together on several Davis Frame projects over the years and Bay Colony Timber Frame is happy to have Sam assist Davis Frame client's on Martha's Vineyard.

To learn more about our timber frame homes, give us a call today at 1-800-636-0993!

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-08-12T12:00:00.000-04:00

Timber frame home with SIPs

What are Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs)? Why are they often used with Timber Framing?

Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS) are one of the most convenient and energy efficient forms of insulation available to the building market. This type of panel system is considered to be high-performance with generous R-values for the wall and roof panels. Typical panel systems usually consist of a solid foam core "sandwiched" between two pieces of oriented strand board (OSB). Panels are either 4 feet or 8 feet wide; lengths vary from 8 feet to 24 feet. (Photo: Murus EPS panel).

At Davis Timber Frame, we choose to use Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) with our timber frame homes for a few different reasons.

• The combination of timber framing and SIPs offers superior strength and durability.

• Building with timber bents and SIPs allows you to build your exterior shell in no time, much faster than conventional construction.
• Limited construction waste
• SIPs provides a "tight" structure, so tight that often an air exchange system is needed.
• SIPs provide a more sound proof home, draft free and will save you on your monthly energy bills.
• SIPs are manufactured without wall studs which eliminates thermal bridging and provides SIPs with high r-values.

If you are interested in learning more about our timber frame and SIPs packages, call us today at 1-800-636-0993!

Berkshires and Catskills Timber Frame Homes

2011-08-10T13:38:00.002-04:00

The Loholdt's new timber frame home in the Berkshires on their family farm

We are excited to introduce our new timber frame Independent Representatives for the Berkshires and Catskills, Springhill Frame and Land Company! Managed by Jeff and Carrie Loholdt, Springhill Frames will represent Davis Timber Frames in Western Massachusetts and the Catskills in New York as well as Litchfield County Connecticut.

The Loholdt's became acquainted with Davis Frame first as clients. They are currently in the process of finishing their new Davis Timber Frame Home on their family farm in the Berkshires.Their experience building a new timber frame home makes them a highly qualified resource for anyone looking to build their own custom timber frame home.

Timber frame raising last year

Jeff and Carrie offer an extensive background in land development and real estate. Both are licensed real estate professionals and they can assist you in finding the perfect site for your new home. They also have strong relationships with some of the country's leading developers in Upstate New York, Raleigh-Durham & Chapel Hill, North Carolina as well as Coastal Georgia.

If you are looking to build a timber frame home or addition in the Berkshires or Catskills, contact Springhill Frames today by calling 877-202-7335.

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-08-05T10:34:00.000-04:00

One question we receive often is, "I noticed on your website that the timber frame homes are mostly large and completely timber framed. Can I build a small timber frame home or a home that has some conventional construction?"

This is a great question! There are no limitations in the size of the home design unless you have restrictions from your community or town. Back a few years ago, many of our timber frame homes were large and over 3,000 square feet, however, with the economy and the cost of living going up, we have seen a trend in small timber frame homes. We are designing timber frame homes of all sizes and recently worked with a client to build a 480 square foot cabin. One of our most popular floor plans, the Classic Homestead 1 plan is only 1,764 square feet, small enough to be efficient but features an open floor plan that feels spacious. We are currently working with 3 clients who are using the Classic Homestead 1 floor plan for their new home!

Also, you do not have to build a fully timber framed home. In fact, many of our clients choose the hybrid timber frame option which typically features timber framing in the main living areas of the home such as the great room, dining room and kitchen, while the remainder of the home is conventionally framed. This option can save you money and still give you the timber frame look.

Visit our Search Timber Frame Plans By Square Feet page to see the different size predesigned timber frame plans we have to offer. If you do not see anything that meets your needs, contact us today and we can discuss our custom design services. Call 1-800-636-0993!

A Client's Journey to Building His Timber Frame Home

2011-08-03T12:49:00.004-04:00

One Davis Frame client was happy to share his journey on building a new timber frame home! Wade Max was the general contractor for his project and was there every step of the construction process. Weather delays and challenges occured, but in the end, Wade couldn't be happier with the end result, a beautiful timber frame he will call home.

Read Wade's story below:

After 5 years of planning, we finally decided to start construction on our new timber frame home. After researching timber frame companies, we chose to work with Davis Frame Company. We worked with Davis Frame from the beginning on the design and there were multiple revisions and tweaks to fit the cost into our budget. Davis Frame was very gracious to work with us through this process and we finalized the contract with Peter, the Sales Manager. Peter was helpful and responsive through the process.

We started the construction process for our new home in late February of 2011 and nine weeks and 100 yards of concrete later, we were ready to take delivery of the timber frame package. Through Davis Frame, we hired a private timber frame contractor, Dick Bird to oversee our crew (myself and a father/son team), to assist with the timber frame raising.

The timber frame raising was set to start right as we were experiencing tornado warnings in Tennessee, so there was a slight delay. The problem didn't only start with the weather delay, but the delivery truck couldn't make the turn into the driveway. After making a mad dash through the driveway entrance, the truck became stuck in the mud (probably from the 4" of rain from the night before). We used the Lull to try to move the tractor trailer a little further to unload. We soon found out that the truck wouldn't be able to make the next turn. After overheating the engine of the Lull (not meant to be a tow truck), we decided to start unloading the timber frame package in the mud. After letting the Lull rest and replacing the battery, the unloading went smoothly..........

Read more about Wade's timber frame journey here!

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-07-29T13:59:00.000-04:00

Should I Consider Being my Own General Contractor?

From time to time, we work with clients who consider taking on the task of being their own general contractor. Being your own general contractor can be a big responsibility to undertake. Before you take on such a project, you must analyze whether you have the skills, time and knowledge to manage your new timber frame home or panelized home from start to finish. Below are some tips in case you are considering being your own GC for your timber frame project:

Time Management

It is important to analyze your available time to dedicate to your timber frame or panelized home project. General contracting requires many hours during the day for gathering bids and materials. You may also need to take time early on in the day or early evening to connect with your subcontractors as they are usually not readily available during the day. Plan on spending at least 9-12 months or more to manage the construction of your new custom home.

Organization and Schedules

When you are your own GC, you must be organized. If you do not schedule your subcontractors properly, this could cause delays for the other subcontractors you hire and delay your timber frame project in general. So if you plan on being your own GC, remember to moderate your subcontractor’s work progress in order to ensure that you’re on schedule for your next contractor.

Knowledge about residential construction process

It is important that you know about all the elements that it takes to build a new home. Some of the elements include knowing your state’s building regulations, permit process and also hiring the subcontractors for your project. Being a general contractor, you will be in charge of finding subcontractors that will meet your budget expectations, building time and expectations in quality of work.

Also by being your own general contractor, you may not have all the subcontractor contacts you may need to complete your project. Without hiring a residential GC that is familiar with other building professionals in the area, this could cause more time for your project, frustration and could cost you money as well. Many building professionals work together and usually your local GC can help you get competitive bids and choose contractors that meet all your needs.

Overall, it is important to analyze all of the above as the residential building process can be time consumptive and costly. Residential construction takes a lot of time and organization. If you are not familiar with the general construction process, being your own GC may not be right for you. Many times hiring a general contractor works out for the best as they will help manage your timber frame project to ensure that the building process meets all your needs and concerns; especially in terms of time and may actually be able to save you money on your new home.

Are you interested in learning more about Davis Frame timber frames? Contact us today by calling 1-800-636-0993!

Timber Frame Addition in New Jersey

2011-07-28T10:49:00.006-04:00

Davis Frame Independent Representatives, Timber Frames Unlimited hosted a frame raising a couple weeks ago in New Jersey. Jeff Davis, co-owner of Davis Frame, traveled down to to help the crew raise the timber frame. The 20'x36' addition will be used as a large great room and social gathering space to entertain family and friends. The absence of second floor framing allows the space to feature a cathedral ceiling and an unobstructed view of the dynamic timber frame joinery and craftsmanship.

With many styles of timber framing techniques available, our designers coupled with the owners preferences, created a "bent system" utilizing three King Post Trusses on the interior and a Queen Post Truss at either end to allow for window placement. After the timber frame bents were raised, MMR dry wall was installed on the exterior of the timbers followed by a wall and roof enclosure of energy efficient Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) by Murus Panels.

Visit our website to learn more about the different type of timber frame bent systems available!

Check of the frame raising photos below:

Timber frame assembly complete

First king post truss being raised into place

Second king post truss raised into place

Last bent raised into place, timber frame raising is almost complete

SIPs installation

Check out our construction photo slideshow for this new timber frame addition in New Jersey. If you are interested in building a timber frame home or addition, give us a call today by calling 1-800-636-0993!

Timber Framing is a Great Alternative to a Log Home

2011-07-20T11:15:00.001-04:00

Timber frame home on Lake Ontario, NY

We have had a lot of interest lately from people who just discovered timber frame homes after researching log homes. Timber frames are often confused with log homes and many think they are the same type of home. The only similarity is that they both offer exposed wood. Log homes are built of logs stacked horizontally, allowing the logs to be seen from the exterior as well as the interior. You can visit a log home and know immediately that it is one, but a timber frame is not recognizable until you enter the home and see the beautiful exposed beams. A timber frame home looks like any other home from the outside. Visit our website to see our timber frame photo gallery.

Often people choose timber framing over a log home because timber frames feature "less wood." You can add as little or as much wood to a timber frame home, but a log home is completely made up of wood on the outside and in. Timber framing can also be incorporated into any style home whether you want to build a traditional, contemporary or rustic home.

Below are the main reasons why people choose a timber frame home over a log home:

Design flexibility
Low maintenance
Less wood
Energy efficient
Adaptable to any architectural style
Timber frames look like any other home from the exterior

If you are interested in learning more about Davis Timber Frame Homes, give us a call today at 1-800-636-0993!

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-07-15T09:07:00.000-04:00

The Forest View, designed by Davis Frame Co.

Do I Need an Architect to Design My Timber Frame Home?

This is a question we often get asked. We offer complete in-house timber frame design services to modify one of our pre-designed Classic Barn Homes or design a custom home that suits your lifestyle, land and budget. Our design staff has a wide range of knowledge including hands-on carpentry experience, timber framing experience and a designer with an engineering background.

Our design staff includes President Jeff Davis, who has worked in the timber frame industry for over three decades and has designed and/or overseen the design of hundreds of timber frame homes, commercial buildings and barns.

Some towns, counties and cities require plans to be stamped by a licensed engineer or an architect. (Through our association with several engineering firms, we can meet that requirement). If you are already working with an architect, we can work seamlessly with them.

Our design services will provide you with a full set of plans. However, our design services to not include some services architects offer, mechanical plans for wiring, plumbing and HVAC. Those plans can be done with your GC and subcontractors using the set of plans we provide with our design services, while fine-tuning of the electrical and lighting placement can be achieved during a walk through after the interior walls are framed.

If you have any questions about our design services and timber frame packages, call us today at 1-800-636-0993!

Article from our past newsletter

Build a Timber Frame Pool House

2011-07-13T15:51:00.000-04:00

Over the years, we have worked on many different custom timber frame projects, from pergolas to pavilions and even a couple timber frame pool houses.

More people are adding specialty rooms and outbuildings to their existing properties. One way to add to your current home is a timber frame pool house. In New England, we only get to swim for a short season.Why not build a indoor timber frame pool house to enjoy all year round?

For inspiration, check out a couple of pool houses we have worked on over the years.

Timber frame pool house in Connecticut

Timber frame pool house on Cape Cod

If you have a special project in mind, give us a call today at 1-800-636-0993!

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-07-08T13:58:00.004-04:00

What Type of Insulation Does Davis Frame Offer?

At Davis Frame, we primarily use Murus Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) in our exterior shell packages. We offer two different types of SIPs, Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) and Polyurethane.

Both panel types are made with structurally rated skins, oriented strand board (OSB) with a foam core sandwiched between the two skins. The main difference between the two is price and r-values. Polyurethane SIPs panels offer higher r-values and do cost more than EPS panels. Polyurethane SIPs offer a few advantages: strength, thermal performance and Class 1 fire resistance. EPS panels are competitively priced and offer generous r-value options. Both types of Murus panels work well with timber frame homes and will provide you with a long lasting and energy efficient home!

We also offer a panelized wall and roof panel system, Energy Smart Panels (eSIPS)! eSIPS is a division of Davis Frame and was developed as an alternative to stick-frame construction and Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs). The system can be used with timber frame or used as a stand-alone panelized home. eSIPS is made with 2x6 dimensional lumber for the wall and 2x10 or 2x12 lumber for the roof. BioBased spray foam insulation is then applied and one portion of the panel is left exposed.

For more information about our timber frame packages, call us today by calling 1-800-636-0993!

Upcoming Project: Caribbean Timber Frame Home

2011-06-30T13:47:00.005-04:00

Our Japanese Tea House model inspired our clients from the Cayman Islands

We are currently working with a client who is building a Davis Timber Frame Home in the Cayman Islands. This is our first timber frame home in the Caribbean and we couldn't be more excited! Timber framing is a great building choice for areas where hurricanes are common due to a timber frame structures durability. We have worked with a few clients over the years to design and build timber frame homes to withstand hurricane winds.

Last year our clients called us after seeing our Japanese Tea House model on our website. They were inspired by the tea house and wanted to create a similar design to build 3 timber frame pods. The clients worked with a local architecture firm, Kariba Architecture to develop the 3 pods. Our design team designed the frame drawings. See the frame isometrics below:

The timber frame home will consist of 3- 22'X35' timber frame pods. All 3 pods will feature Douglas fir timbers, tongue and groove pine boards on the ceiling and Eagle Windows.

The center pod will host the main living areas including the great room, dining room and kitchen. To the left of the center pod will be the luxurious master bedroom suite. The suite will also include a sitting area and laundry room. To the right of the center living space will be the guest pod. The guest pod will host two guest bedroom suites, both equipped with their own bathrooms.

Each pod will have a deck and the large center deck off of the main living area will lead to a pool and hot tub. The property also features a beautiful view of the ocean and has a path leading to the ocean. This timber frame home is going to be the perfect place to entertain guests and enjoy island living!

The project will be shipping out later this summer and we will update you on this new Caribbean timber frame home once its under construction! To learn more about our timber frames, call us today by calling 1-800-636-0993.

Visit the Cayman Islands online to learn more about this beautiful island!

Beachfront timber frame home on Myrtle Beach

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-06-24T11:51:00.001-04:00

What roofing options does Davis Frame provide in the exterior shell package?

We offer IKO Laminated Architectural Shingles, the Cambridge series, due its durability, beauty and 50 year limited lifetime warranty. Architectural shingles provide a more durable and long lasting product than traditional asphalt roofing shingles. The shingles are double layered and use a heavy fiberglass mat to provide extra durability and is weather resistant. The shingles are also manufactured in larger pieces and create a more uniform look.

Visit our website to learn more about our exterior shell timber frame packages or give us a call today by calling 1-800-636-0993!

Timber Frame Sugar House in Vermont

2011-06-22T14:39:00.012-04:00

Original sugar house from years ago

Last year we worked on a special timber frame project in Vermont. Dave Dutton, owner of Dutton Construction in Chittenden, Vermont presented us with the project. His client had an old sugar house on her family property that was falling down and beyond repair. Since the sugar house had family history and it couldn't be restored, she decided to build a new timber frame sugar house similar to the original one. Reclaimed boards from the original sugar house were salvaged and installed on the ceiling of the new timber frame. The salvaged boards feature children's chalk drawings from the original structure.

We provided the rough sawn hemlock timber frame package. Rough sawn hemlock timbers were used to achieve a rustic look and the board and batten siding for the sugar house was left natural to weather; eventually the sugar house will appear as though its always been on the property with its weathered look.

The sugar house is just a short distance away from the client's primary home and they plan to use their new timber frame to relax and enjoy Vermont living.

Sugar house falling over

New replicated sugar house

Interior of timber frame sugar house

Several years ago, we created a couple sugar house floor plans, visit our website today for more details!

If you have an old barn or structure that you are looking to tear down and replace with a new timber frame contact us today by calling 1-800-636-0993! We can work with you on a design similar to the original and help you build a new structure that is timeless.

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-06-17T13:59:00.002-04:00

What are the siding options for Davis Frame's weather tight shell packages?

Here at Davis Frame, we offer two different siding options in our weather tight packages. We offer CertainTeed FiberCement siding and Western Cedar siding.

Western Cedar siding is a popular choice for siding a timber frame home. Many tradesmen are familiar with the installation and find it to be easy to install. Cedar siding comes in many different finishes and holds and is resistant to decay, moisture and insect damage. The Western Cedar siding comes with a 15 year warranty on the finish with solid stain. There is a more maintenance required than FiberCement siding, however, many homeowner's choose cedar for its enhanced exterior appearance and durability.

CertainTeed FiberCement siding is the other siding option we offer for our timber frame homes. It's a great option for those who want a beautiful look with less maintenance. CertainTeed siding also provides a 50 year warranty for the board itself and a 15 year warranty for the paint when factory pre-finished.

People often ask if we supply vinyl siding and the answer is no. If you are looking for vinyl siding you can purchase it from your local lumber store. CertainTeed is also a great alternative to vinyl siding and requires less maintenance compared to some of the wood siding options on the market.

If you would like to speak to a project coordinator about our timber frame packages, call us today at 1-800-636-0993! Visit our website for more information on our timber frame homes.

Timber Frame Cabin Under Construction

2011-06-15T15:49:00.029-04:00

Timber frame raising

Here at Davis Timber Frame, we are excited to blog about our latest project in Northern New Hampshire. This new timber frame cabin features 480 square feet and is a perfect size for a weekend getaway in the woods. The first floor features an open layout with a living room, kitchen, full bathroom and a sleeping loft above.

The homeowner also built a one car garage with a shop. On the main floor of the garage, there is also a shed extension that features a drive through area for recreational vehicles. How much cooler does it get for a snowmobiler? The second floor of the garage features a large living space and full bathroom, perfect for overnight guests.

We provided the weather tight shell package and the cabin kit included: Eastern White Pine timbers, Structural Insulated Panels (SIPS), T&G decking, Integrity Windows, solid pine doors and live edge cedar siding. To achieve a rustic look, the timbers were hand hewned.

This cabin was built with energy efficiency in mind to withstand New England's below freezing temperatures. Along with the energy efficient materials in the weather tight shell package, the home owner also added a highly efficient wood stove and it will be used to heat the home and do the cooking. A composting toilet was also added to the full bathroom, designed to use less water and energy. With all the energy smart materials used, we know this cabin will do just fine during the winter months!

Timber frame raised into place

SIPS roof panel being raised

Roof panel installation

Interior view of the Eastern White Pine timbers. Pine T&G decking is used on the ceiling.

A conventionally built garage was built on the property.

Keep checking our blog for more updates on this cabin in New Hampshire. If you would like more info on our cabin kits, call us today at 1-800-636-0993!

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-06-10T12:45:00.000-04:00

Can I add a timber frame addition to my existing home?

Yes! Timber framing is very adaptable and can blend with many different style architectures and construction methods. At Davis Timber Frame, we receive many inquiries from people who want to add a timber frame addition to their conventionally built home.

The most common timber frame addition are great room additions. We have also worked with clients to build a master bedroom suite addition and even large additions to add a new wing for the main living area of the home. Whatever the size, whether it be a new timber frame room or wing, we can work with you to design an addition that flows with the floor plan of your current home.

Check out our gallery of timber frame additions! Call us today at 1-800-636-0993 to receive a free copy of our brochure.

New Martha's Vineyard Timber Frame Home Photos

2011-06-08T13:27:00.003-04:00

We recently received finished photos of a charming timber frame cottage we designed and manufactured for a new vacation home on Martha's Vineyard. Steve Petty, Cape Cod timber frame representative for Davis Frame, worked with the homeowners to develop hand sketches and then the Davis Frame design team turned Steve's sketches into electronic drawings to collaborate with our computer-controlled machinery.

Living room

The first floor features an open layout with the living room, kitchen and dining area open to one another. Patio doors in the living room and dining room lead out to the farmers porch to extend summer entertaining. Off of the living room is a study. Instead of having a cathedral ceiling on the main floor, the homeowners chose to do 8' 6" ceilings to allow the space to be more intimate.

The second floor hosts three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Kitchen and dining room

The study off of the living room

Guest bedroom

A timber frame farmers porch is perfect for summer evenings

If you're looking to build a new timber frame home or vacation home on Cape Cod, the Islands or anywhere in Eastern Massachusetts, call our local representative Steve Petty today by calling 508-259-7137.

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-06-03T12:33:00.003-04:00

Here at Davis Timber Frame, we can offer you a full exterior package for your new timber frame home! Part of our package includes energy efficient doors and windows. We have a couple different window companies that we work with. You can choose from Eagle Windows, an Andersen company or Integrity Windows by Marvin. Both window companies offer energy efficient windows and doors that are Energy Star compliant.

Eagle Windows offers premium aluminum clad exterior and wood interior windows. Eagle also provides endless design options, in terms of sizes and colors! You can completely customize your windows and doors and choose from over 50 exterior colors and different wood species for the interior of the window.

Timber frame under construction. Custom Eagle Windows were used. The exterior of the window is a custom charcoal gray and Douglas fir was used for the interior window to match the Douglas fir timbers in the home.

Integrity Windows by Marvin offers ultrex clad exterior and pine interior windows. Integrity is a quality window at an affordable price. There is however, limited design options and sizes available with Integrity versus Eagle Windows.

This finished timber frame farmhouse features Integrity windows. The pine window complements the pine timbers used in the home.

To learn more about Davis Frame Company's exterior shell packages, visit our FAQ's page or call us at 1-800-636-0993!

Update on North Shore Massachusetts Timber Frame Home

2011-06-02T14:51:00.001-04:00

Barn home in Massachusetts

We just got back from visiting one of our timber frame homes under construction on the North Shore of Massachusetts! The home is coming out beautifully and the homeowners are very happy. The new barn home features Douglas fir timbers and our Energy Smart Insulated Panel System, (eSIPS) for the structural wall and roof panels.

The timber frame home's exterior shell is almost finished and the crew is wrapping up on the installation of the white cedar siding. The next step will be to install the sheet rock and work on finishing the interior of the home. We hope to have more photos of the construction progress this summer! For now, check out the latest photos below:

A view of the interior timber frame and T&G pine ceiling.

A view of the exposed panelized wall system, eSIPS that was used for the shell of the home.

The home features a wrap around timber frame porch that extends from the front to the side of the home.

Are you interested in building a barn style home or design a home from scratch? Call us today at 1-800-636-0993 and speak with a project coordinator about your upcoming home project. We can work with you to design and build a timber frame home, eSIPS prefab panelized home or a a combination of both!

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-05-26T10:00:00.000-04:00

Timber frame golf club restaurant

Does Davis Frame Work on Commercial Timber Frame Projects?

Here at Davis Timber Frame, we have worked on several light commercial projects over the years. We have designed and built a timber frame bank, golf club, pet store, aviation center, restaurant and timber frame general store.

If you have plans to build a timber frame commercial building or you are looking for timber frame accent pieces or glulams for your commercial structure, give us a call today at 1-800-636-0993 to speak with one of our project coordinators!

Timber frame aviation center

Beachfront Timber Frame Home in South Carolina

2011-05-24T14:57:00.001-04:00

Back in 2003, we worked on a spectacular beachfront timber frame home in South Carolina. Ed and Lexy, the homeowners, spent years researching how they were going to build their new home. In the late 1980's, their beachfront home was destroyed by Hurricane Hugo and they wanted to find a construction method that would make their home resistant to hurricanes. The couple came to the harsh reality that there is no construction method that is completely hurricane proof. However, it is possible to minimize how much a hurricane can impact a house said their engineer Ken.

According to Ken, there were only two ways to build a home with an open floor plan that could withstand a category 4 or 5 storm. He suggested to the homeowners to look into timber frame or steel. Ed and Lexy did not like the idea of steel, but loved the idea of a timber frame home. The couple decided to use Davis Frame Company to manufacturer the timber frame. Dense Select Structural Douglas fir timbers were used for the frame because this grade fir adds 30% in bending stress which allows the timber skeleton to resist the force of high winds. Traditional mortise and tenon joinery is typically used for Davis timber frame homes, but we used reinforced metal joinery to increase storm resistance. We were able to design the home to hide the metal joinery so that it wouldn't distract from the beauty of the wood.

The homeowners were very happy with the outcome and are still enjoying their beachfront timber frame home in South Carolina. Waking up every day with the view of the beach is a dream come true.

Timber frame stairs lead to the loft that overlooks the main floor

The kitchen opens into the great room and dining area; this is a perfect entertaining space!

The master bedroom captures beautiful views of the sunrise and sunset. What a great place to wake up!

A view of the timber frame great room from the loft.

Rear view of this Oceanside timber frame home.

We have worked with several clients on their oceanfront timber frame homes to ensure they are built to be durable and use materials that stand up to hurricane force winds. Learn more about our timber frame homes today by calling 1-800-636-0993 today!

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-05-20T15:45:00.001-04:00

Example of Douglas fir timbers

What Grade Douglas Fir timbers does Davis Frame Offer?

At Davis Timber Frame, we only use free of heart center timbers for a couple reasons. FOHC timbers offer the highest quality Douglas fir timbers available and will create less checking. Douglas fir FOHC timbers are usually the most popular choice with our clients due to the minimal checking; however a few of our clients like the checking aspect of some of the other timber species available that offer a more rustic look.

Douglas fir timbers also offers a beautiful vertical wood grain and strength and durability.

If you would like to find out more information about our timber frame homes, give us a call today at 1-800-636-0993!

New Timber Frame Home Under Construction in Tennessee

2011-05-19T14:51:00.001-04:00

Front elevation for timber frame home

We are currently working on a new timber frame home in Tennessee! This new custom Davis Timber Frame home will feature one floor living and a loft. The main floor will host a large 21'X18' great room with a game room to the left and an open concept dining room and kitchen to the right. Off of the kitchen, there will be a spacious pantry, every cook’s dream. To the left of the kitchen, there will be a half bath, den and spacious master bedroom suite. Timber frame stairs in the great room will lead to an open loft, the perfect place to relax and enjoy timber home living.

Construction was delayed due to the tornado warnings in Tennessee this spring, but now this new timber frame home is well on its way to being constructed! The crew is working on finishing up the exterior shell. We will have more pictures to share soon; keep checking back for updates on this new timber frame in Tennessee!

Timber frame bent being raised by a crane

Timber frame features 5 custom timber frame bents

Timber frame raising complete, next SIPs installation

Are you looking to build a new timber frame home? We ship our timber frame packages nationwide. Call us today to speak with one of our project coordinators about your upcoming home project.

Update on Catskills New York Timber Frame Home

2011-05-11T10:28:00.002-04:00

Alan and Donna recently built their new Davis Frame Catskills New York timber frame vacation home! While the new timber frame house is not complete, some of the furniture is in and the happy couple will finish the interior in the coming months. They are now elbow deep with landscaping (having just planted 30 Norway spruce seedlings) and shall enjoy outdoor country living this summer! This country retreat in a beautiful pastoral setting is sure to be loved for years to come.

Timber frame dining room

Timber frame great room

View of the timber frame great room from the loft; A wall of windows lets lots of natural light in.

Timber accents were added to the porch. An outdoor fireplace was also added. This will be the perfect place to enjoy a summer evening.

To learn more about Davis Frame Company and our timber frame packages, call us today at 1-800-636-0993 or visit our website!

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-05-06T14:20:00.002-04:00

Traditional design with timber framing

One of the most common questions we receive from our clients is "Can I incorporate timber frame in an existing floor plan design?"

The answer is yes! Timber framing is very adaptable to different architectural styles. We have worked with clients on traditional designs, modern and contemporary designs and mountain home designs. Many of our clients bring us a design for a conventional home and we can usually incorporate timber framing into the design; however, we are careful not to reproduce any copyrighted plans from other companies, and work with you to use your plan as a starting point to develop a custom timber frame home that is uniquely yours.

If you have any questions or want to speak to a project coordinator, give us a call today 1-800-636-0993!

Vacation Home in Wine Country Oregon

2011-05-04T12:35:00.002-04:00

This barn style timber frame home nestled in Wine Country, Oregon has become one of my favorite Davis Frame homes. I have already blogged about this beautiful barn home twice, but I just can't get enough of it!

If you're a wine enthusiast like I am, you can appreciate why the homeowners chose to build their vacation home in wine country. Not only does this new timber frame home offer views of a vineyard below, but it is also located on the Oregon wine trail. The photos below show how beautiful a timber frame home can be at night with the right lighting. Read our previous blog post on lighting a timber frame home.

Future timber frame great room; to light this room, track lighting and wall sconces were used.

Track lights enhance the beauty of the Douglas fir timbers. The cupola with provide lots of natural light during the day.

Timber frame kitchen

The loft is a great place to enjoy the beauty of the timbers and is a great place to be during the daylight hours to enjoy the stunning views of the rolling hills.

Often people think of Northern California when it comes to wineries, but Oregon is just as beautiful and the best kept secret for wine. Check out Oregon Wine Country's website to learn more.

If you are looking to build a new home in the Pacific Northwest, our reps Doug and Leanne are located in Oregon and can help you with your dream home. We will post more updated photos of this barn home as soon as we receive them!

For more information on our timber frame packages call us today at 1-800-636-0993!

Lighting a Timber Frame Home

2011-04-27T13:31:00.000-04:00

Timber frame home on Cape Cod

Lighting is an important element to consider during the design process for your new timber frame home. At Davis Frame Company, most of our clients timber frame homes feature cathedral ceiling great rooms with a wall of windows and planning for good lighting in a cathedral ceiling great room is important. Many of our clients feature large chandeliers in their timber frame great rooms. They not only provide good light, but are also beautiful and compliments the timber framing.

Track lighting is also often used to light a timber frame great room. This type of lighting is often combined with a chandelier, as the chandelier alone may not provide enough lighting. The track lights are usually installed on the timber beams or ceiling. Wall sconces are also becoming extremely popular as an accent lighting option for timber frame homes.

This lit up timber frame great room features track lighting and wall sconces.

With our client's timber frame great rooms typically featuring a soaring ceiling, often our clients like to design their lighting to enhance the timber framing at night. Track lighting helps provide ample light in the room as well as shine light on the timbers so the room can be enjoyed at night. When lighted properly, the timbers beautifully shine through the great room wall of windows making this a stunning view from the outside.

This timber frame home is located on the beach and the beautiful view can be enjoyed while having a bonfire on the beach.

Visit Hubbardton Forge Lighting to look at their lighting options! This lighting company is very popular choice with our clients.

If you are looking for more information on our timber frame homes, contact us by calling 1-800-636-0993!

How to Add Timber Frame Accents to Your Home

2011-04-21T11:45:00.035-04:00

Vermont home features timber frame brackets on the exterior

Here at Davis Timber Frame, we provide our customers with many timber frame options from full timber frame packages to timber frame accents including timber frame porches, timber frame trusses and timber frame wooden brackets for their homes. Most of our packages are full and hybrid timber frame packages, however, we work with many homeowners who want to add a touch of timber framing to their new or existing home.

Below are ways you can add timber framing:

Timber Frame Truss Accents

Last year, we worked with two different clients in a ski area in Vermont who were building conventional homes. Both clients decided to add timber frame truss accents to their great rooms as well as timber frame brackets to the exterior to achieve a mountain home look. Adding timber frame truss accents to a conventional home adds warmth, charm and can give the home a the the timber frame ambiance without having to add timber framing to every room.

Timber Frame Porches

The timber frame entry porch features two accent timber frame trusses

Adding a timber frame porch to your home is a great way to achieve a unique look. Many of our clients add an entry porch or wrap around timber frame porch for a wowing impression. I personally love a wrap around porch; it is a great place to enjoy the outdoors!

Timber Frame knee braces create a beautiful wrap around porch

Timber Frame Wood Brackets

Timber frame wooden brackets are typically added underneath the roof overhangs of your home. Whether you are building a timber frame or conventional home, adding wooden brackets will give your home a unique look!

Timber frame bracket

For more information on our timber frame packages including timber frame accents, call us today at 1-800-636-0993!

Popular Timber Frame Bent and Truss Options for Your New Home

2011-04-14T15:01:00.006-04:00

Example of principal purlin frame

We offer many different style timber frame truss and bent systems here at Davis Timber Frame. We offer two basic types of frames, common purlin frames and common rafter frames. Common purlin frames offer a series of purlins all bearing on the principal rafters of a bent. Common purlin frames are also erected one bent at a time at uniform intervals. Common rafter frame roof rafters span from the eave walls to a ridge beam, principal purlin or the opposing rafter. Common rafter frames are erected in wall sections. Both the common rafter frame and common purlin frame offer a variety of different style bents and trusses to choose from.

One of our most popular style frames is the common rafter principal purlin frame. One reason why the principal purlin frame is so popular here at Davis Timber Frame is because all of our Classic Barn Home floor plans feature a common rafter principal purlin system. Principal purlin frames are simple and beautiful and are often the perfect choice for those that desire a simple timber frame design.

A couple other popular style frame choices are Queen Post and King Post truss and bent frames. Many of our clients use a combination of bent and truss frames for their timber frame home but for the main areas of the home (great room, dining room and kitchen), timber frame truss frames are used to keep the space open and airy.

This great room uses King Post Trusses to keep the space open.

Example of Queen Post Bent Frame. The Queen Post goes down to the floor for more structural support. Bent systems are typically used on the perimeter of the home, while truss systems are used to allow a space to be open with no posts.

To learn more about the different style timber frame options (hammer beam truss, scissor trusses and more) we offer at Davis Timber Frame, visit our web page all about Timber Frame Bent and Truss Systems! Contact us today by calling 1-800-636-0993.

New Timber Frame Open House Location Added

2011-04-08T10:16:00.000-04:00

We are happy to announce a new spring timber frame open house location has been added! Join us in Sunapee, New Hampshire and tour this beautiful custom hybrid timber frame home. The great room, dining room and kitchen features Douglas fir scissor truss timbers. The remainder of the home was conventionally built using our Energy Smart Insulated Panel wall and roof system (eSIPS).

Date: Saturday, April 30th

Time: 1:00pm-4:00pm

Location: Sunapee, New Hampshire

To receive directions to this timber frame open house, please call us today at 1-800-636-0993!

Couple Builds Their Dream Timber Frame Vacation Home in Vermont

2011-04-01T15:31:00.001-04:00

Chuck and Maureen decided to build a timber frame vacation home after falling in love with their daughter and son-in-law's Davis Timber Frame home in Vermont. When they embarked on their own journey to build a timber frame home they decided to build on their daughter's 11 acre property. The Vermont property has become a "family compound"; and it is the perfect place to celebrate the holidays with their family. The couple started with our original homestead floor plan and modified it to suit their wants and needs. The Classic Homestead 1 has become one of our most popular timber frame floor plans.

The Classic Homestead 1 is 26'X40' with 1,764 square feet of living space. The timber frame model offers a compact and attractive floor plan. The first floor is spacious and the kitchen opens into the cathedral-ceiling timber frame great room and dining room. The master bedroom suite is also located on the first floor and features a large walk-in closet and full en-suite bath.

The second floor features two bedrooms and a full bathroom. This floor plan is flexible and can be modified. For example, some of our clients have taken the two bedrooms on the second floor and designed it to be one.

Read Chuck and Maureen's story on building their timber frame vacation home.

If you are interested in our timber frame homes or would like a quote for the Classic Homestead 1, give us a call today at 1-800-636-0993.

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-03-30T12:46:00.001-04:00

How long does it take from start of design until delivery of my timber frame from Davis Frame?

This process can take as little as three months or as long as nine months depending on the complexity of the design and the number of changes required in the process of refining it. When the design is complete, it generally takes eight weeks to cut and deliver your timber frame.

Another similar question we often receive is how long does it take to erect the timber frame and install the SIPs panels? On average, it takes about three weeks; however, the size and complexity of the building, site constraints, and weather conditions can affect the amount of time it will take. The remainder of the construction process for a timber frame is the same as any conventional home and usually takes 9 to 12 months.

If you have a question about the timber frame building process or about our timber frame homes, feel free to leave a comment with your question or call us today at 1-800-636-0993!

New Photos of Timber Frame Home in Oregon

2011-03-24T11:13:00.000-04:00

Jeff Davis, President of Davis Timber Frame just got back from Oregon and took some new photos of our timber frame project in Wine Country Oregon! This new beautiful barn style vacation home will be the perfect place for the homeowners to relax and enjoy their surroundings. Below the home's property is a vineyard and with the view of the vineyard and the rolling hills, it just doesn't get any better.

Timber frame great room captures a beautiful view

Timber frame kitchen

A view of the timber framing

A view of the cupola

Side view of the Oregon timber frame home that captures the beautiful views of the rolling hills

If you are interested in building a timber frame home or barn style home in Oregon, Northern California or Washington, contact our representatives Doug and Leanne Smith of Central Oregon Timber Frame!

Are you building in a different region other than the Pacific Northwest? If so, give our main office a call today by calling 1-800-636-0993.We ship our timber frame packages nationwide!

Timber Frame Raising in New Jersey

2011-03-17T09:36:00.000-04:00

Rendering for the new timber frame home in New Jersey

Davis Frame Independent Representatives, Timber Frames Unlimited recently hosted a timber frame raising in Southern New Jersey. As you can see, it was a beautiful day for a frame raising! Seeing a timber frame during the construction process is one of the best ways to see the beauty and the details of a timber frame---in it's "bare bones."

This new timber frame home will feature 2,954 SF of living space. The first floor will host a large open space that will include the great room, dining room and kitchen. A powder room will be located off to the right of the kitchen. This area of the home will also connect the house to the two car garage. The master bedroom and guest bedroom will be located on the second floor, along with a shared full bathroom. Above the two car garage will be a large studio, a perfect space to use as a media room or office!

The homeowners added two cupolas to their timber frame design, one on top of the roof of the house and one on the garage. Many of our clients add cupolas to achieve a barn home look and also to allow natural light in. The natural light from the cupolas can be enjoyed in the master bedroom and the studio space above the garage.

The homeowner watching the crew with the timber frame assembly

Timber frame bent being raised into place

Check out the rest of the timber frame raising photos!

Call us today at 1-800-636-0993 if you have any questions about our timber frame homes.

The Future of New Home Design

2011-03-11T10:03:00.004-05:00

According to the National Home Builders Association (NAHB), they foresee some changes in how people design and build their new homes! No more McMansions, but rather smaller and more energy efficient homes. NAHB recently surveyed over 3,000 building professionals to help predict the new home for 2015. Many of the trends are exactly what we have been seeing over the past few years with many of our clients homes.

New homes are about to get smaller and more energy efficient (greener)! Bigger isn't always better, it is all in how you design your home to maximize space. Formal spaces are going away (formal dining rooms, living rooms) as well as unnecessary spaces (extra bedrooms and bathrooms). Living rooms and formal dining rooms are expected to merge into an open floor plan. For years, many Davis Timber Frame clients have eliminated living rooms and formal dining rooms. Most of our timber frame homes are designed with an open concept that includes the great room, dining area and kitchen; we have been designing and building our homes like this for years!

Open concept timber frame great room and kitchen

To learn more about the new house of 2015, check out the National Home Builders Association's survey results.

If you are ready to get started on your new home project, call us today at 1-800-636-0993 and speak to one of our project coordinators!

Oregon Timber Frame Home Featured in Local Newspaper

2011-03-09T15:52:00.000-05:00

Davis Frame Independent Representatives, Doug and Leanne Smith of Central Oregon Timber Frames were recently featured in the Bend Bulletin, a local publication in central Oregon.

The off-grid timber frame home features 2,850 square feet with three bedrooms and three bathrooms. Passive solar design techniques were used to design this home so that the home maximizes natural lights. The Smith's also incorporated 27 photovoltaic panels on their roof. The timber frame home's electricity comes solely from the solar panels. The hard work has paid off for the Smith's, their home is rated Platinum Earth Advantage and living off-grid has significantly reduced their monthly energy bills.

Read the article today on this amazing off-grid timber frame home!

To see photos of the Smith's timber frame, visit the Pacific Crest photo gallery.

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-03-03T11:53:00.003-05:00

Often our clients ask us, what services does Davis Frame offer? Who will build my Davis Timber Frame Home?

Davis Frame Services

Here at Davis Timber Frame, we not only manufacturer the timber frame system that will become your beautiful home, but we also have an in-house design team and we can help you design your new home. We offer complete design services and can work with you to create a home design from scratch. With our full design services we will provide you with floor plans and elevations, cross-sections, details and a foundation plan.

We also offer many pre-designed floor plans and can work with you to modify one of our pre-designed timber frame plans. If you have already developed plans with an architect or designer, send us your plans we can provide you a quote for your timber frame home package.

Who will build my home?

Davis Frame Company can provide you with one of our technical advisers who will work with your general contractor to help assemble the timber frame and SIPs panels. We can also recommend independent frame and panel installation crews in various locations in the US. Your general contractor or subcontractor will build the rest of the home.

If you would like to get started on your timber frame home project, call us today at 1-800-636-0993 or visit http://www.davisframe.com/!

Timber Frame Question of the Week

2011-02-25T11:44:00.002-05:00

Here at Davis Timber Frame, we receive many questions about our home building products, design services and technical building questions. Every week we will post a commonly asked question. We will answer basic questions as well as more detailed technical questions. Don't forget to check back weekly!

The first question we will answer is one that a lot of our new inquiries ask, "What distinguishes Davis Frame Company from other timber frame companies?"

1. Our timber frame design and production facilities are in one location. This is important in achieving the communication necessary between the design and cutting phase of building a timber frame home.

2. Davis Frame Company combines state of the art technology with the detail of hand craftsmanship to create the curved braces, joinery details, and chamfering which have become distinctive features of Davis Frame. Our frames are individually crafted, not mass produced. For our Douglas fir timber frames, we only use "dense select" grade, free of heart center (FOHC), except for timbers larger than 10"x12". Timbers are well protected during delivery with lumber wrap and are also fully tarped on flat bed trucks.

3. Our company is small enough to work with clients on an individual basis, but large enough to take on just about any project. President Jeff Davis is involved in all of our projects

4. Davis Frame Company can ship our timber frame homes anywhere you want them delivered! We can work with clients with the use of modern communication including a virtual online meeting tool.

5. We are a one stop shop for your new home's exterior shell! We offer:

The timber frame
Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs)
eSIPS panelized wall and roof system
Pre-cut dimensional material
Second floor deck system
Energy efficient doors and windows
Fiber cement and cedar siding
Trim

Roofing

To learn more about our timber frame homes, call us today at 1-800-636-0993!

Spring Timber Frame Open House Tour

2011-02-17T16:03:00.001-05:00

Davis Frame is happy to announce the date of our spring nationwide timber frame open house tour! We will be opening a few homes across the nation on Saturday, April 30th from 1pm-4pm. A couple of our open house locations have been confirmed.

Our representatives Doug and Leanne Smith will be hosting an open house in Sisters, Oregon. Davis Frame Southern Maine and Coastal New Hampshire representatives Dave and Jackie Dewey will be hosting an open house in Cape Neddick, Maine. We will be announcing more locations soon!

Check out our timber frame events page for updates.

To speak to a project coordinator, give us a call today at 1-800-636-0993.