Building a home in Indiana? You’ve got choices. Lots of them.
Brick, vinyl siding, stick-built framing, post-frame barndominiums… and the list goes on. But if you’re looking for something timeless, strong, and beautiful, few things compare to this:
Timber frame construction.
In this article, you’ll discover why more and more Indiana homeowners are turning to timber frame house building techniques. That, and why you might consider doing the same with an experienced Indiana home builder.
So let’s go. It’s a quick skim, and by the end, we think you’ll be loving the idea of a new timber frame home.
What is Timber Frame Construction?
Timber frame construction is one of the oldest building methods in the world. Instead of relying on 2x4s to frame a structure, timber framing relies on massive beams—often 6x6 or larger—that are carefully cut and fit together using mortise and tenon joinery (see below).
The result is a home that’s both incredibly strong and timelessly appealing—showcasing the natural wooden beams as a part of the home’s interior aesthetic.
What is Mortise and Tenon Joinery?
Mortise and tenon joinery is the traditional method of connecting large timbers by drilling a hole (the mortise) into one beam and fitting the other with a leg (tenon) that slides in and secures the beams in place.
The mortise and tenon joinery method has been used reliably for thousands of years—and it’s no secret why. The result is a structure that’s strong, flexible, and beautiful, with support beams that aren’t hidden behind drywall or showing unattractive exposed hardware.
How Has Modern Technology Improved Timber Framing?
Traditionally, mortise and tenon joints were cut and carved by hand—a time-consuming and expensive process. Today, CNC machines can cut timbers with precision down to the millimeter—resulting in faster build times, more accurate fits, and fewer errors.
So while your Indiana home builder may be leaning on a centuries-old design concept, the actual production is as state of the art as it gets.
Why Are More Indiana Homeowners Investing in Timber Framing?
Here are a few things that set a timber frame house apart from a traditional stick-built home:
- Exposed Wood Beams: The number one reason homeowners love timber framing is for the exposed interior beams—a look that’s both rugged and beautiful
- Open Floor Plans: Since timber posts are so strong, fewer load-bearing walls are needed to support the home—resulting in clear, airy living spaces
- Durability: Thanks to the thickness of timber frames—and the durability of solid wood—timber frame homes can easily last generations
How to Choose Between Timber Framing and Traditional Construction Practices
Here are the pros and cons of timber framing vs traditional stick-built framing—something we believe makes the choice easy for most home owners.
- Timber Framing Pros
- Exposed interior support beams
- Open layouts with fewer walls
- Exceptional longevity
- A unique look that sets your home apart
- Timber Framing Cons
- Higher upfront costs than stick framing
- Longer planning and design phases
- Requires specialized craftsmen
- Traditional Stick-Built Pros
- Faster construction times
- Lower upfront costs
- Easier to find materials and labor
- Traditional Stick-Built Cons
- Less character than timber framing
- Shorter lifespan as compared to heavy timber
In short, if you value speed and budget, stick-built framing is for you. But if you’re more interested in beauty, strength, and legacy, timber framing is hard to beat.
What’s the Difference Between Post-Frame Construction and Timber Framing?
Due to the similarities in the way these structures can look—and the fact that many post-frame buildings sport timber frame accents—some people think of post-framing and timber-framing interchangeably. However, there are key differences.
Post-frame buildings (pole barns) use large posts or beams set into the ground to support non load-bearing walls (think wide-open, functional spaces used in many new barndominiums and agricultural or commercial storage settings).
Timber framing, on the other hand, is about old-fashioned, precisely joined skeletal structure that supports the entire building—making these homes more solid, durable, and beautiful.
Is a Timber Frame House Right for You?
If you’re considering building a home in Indiana that stands out and stays strong for generations, a timber frame house might be just what you’re looking for. These rustic-yet-modern homes fit right in with Indiana’s gorgeous landscape—and one-of-a-kind craftsmanship never goes out of style.
That said, not all home builders in Indiana—while many are certainly skilled in traditional practices—have the experience needed to bring a timber frame home to life. So if you’re considering a new timber frame house, start your search with New Horizon Builders. Here’s why.
We believe your new horizons are just around the corner—and by working with our skilled, family-centered craftsman, you’ll love your timber frame home—fully backed by a 10-year-workmanship warranty—for decades to come.
So don’t put your new beginnings off any longer. Get started today with a free estimate on your dream home.
