Post and beam construction is becoming a more popular method of building. It is an attractive method which uses exposed timber framing.

Post and beam construction is a system of timber beams and posts which create a “frame” for the building. This was very common for old barns in the north, and is becoming more popular for homes and buildings. In most post and beam structures the walls are non-bearing which gives more freedom in the use of finishes. However, the walls are still usually needed as shear walls to help stabilize the structure. This can be avoided if some form of lateral bracing is provided, usually in the form of kickers or knee braces.

Many people confuse post and beam construction with Timber framing. Both methods utilize heavy timbers, usually a minimum of 6x members, and provide an architectural look not found in stick built construction. The main difference between the 2 methods is in the joints. Timber framing uses wood pegs, a form of tongue and grove, to join the members. Post and beam construction uses mechanical fasteners to join members, generally in the form of metal plates with thru bolts.