Wood Timber Framing

Paul says: "Let's talk about round wood timber framing joinery. Two important components: number 1: green wood is easy to carve up, but green wood will shrink a little after it is put in. As much as 3% in the length and 7% in the girth.  Although a lot of experts in working with green timbers say that after decades of working with green wood they haven't seen any shrinkage that makes any difference - so they don't really think of it.  But I just can't get the shrinkage out of my head.  Sometimes I use the shrinkage to my advantage, but most of the time I like to prepare for the shrinkage.

number 2: round wood is 2 and a half times stronger than the equivalent in dimensional lumber.  

With each structure we build, we get better and better at round wood timber framing.  Thanks, in part, to experts viewing this information and experts coming and seeing our projects.  To discuss the joinery in this build, please visit Berm Shed Movie

To see the even better joinery of the roundwood timber framing project the following year, see  Wofati Greenhouse

When I see the huge roundwood structures and the machinery used to create them, my mind goes blank with terror. I could never do THAT. But this roundwood picnic table made at the PTJ, without any nails is a nice simple project that makes me feel like roundwood timber is doable. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mKrimi0qj-s

I started a roundwood timber build a year ago. Its a lot of work but we have the frame done. I just posted this video on the plinth stone foundation.  

Thought you guys might enjoy it.

-Danny

That's a great video, Danny. I have always pictured scribing a post that is full-length, as long as the wall is tall. But clearly it is easier to scribe a shorter post that is pier length. That is going to be a really cool building!

Jeremy, Thanks a lot. It was a lot of fun and we were really happy with how the posts came out. I would absolutely love to do full length posts at some point in the future. That could possibly the next addition. I think it would be really hard to do that on long roundwood pieces but next time I am planning on using ones that have been sawn on one edge. The full round was just too much work. Cheers!