How to Build Post and Beam Homes

Through the use of a designer or contractor's assistance, it is imperative to obtain advice in order to make sure that the addition of the new timber wood beams go along with the rest of the older construction of a living space.

It needs to be completed using a thoughtful process and relate to older parts of the home. You cannot just fit an older building to the extensions.

The beam extensions must fit the home instead.

You cannot over extend using wooden beams.

It is suggested that anything over a 25 percent increase in floor area could not only distract from the character of the home but could also create a structure that is not actually as sound and could end up causing damage instead to the building.

Extensions should not be added with the intention to out do or out last older parts of the structure. One thing to also keep in mind is that if a home is considered a historical home or listed as a conservation area, any changes to the home needs to be discussed with a local planning authority.

This should be done before actually starting any work. If your house falls within certain limitations, you can actually be reimbursed or save money on the costs to revamp a building.

When making changes to the structure of a building, always consult a building contractor or architect that is knowledgeable in working with older structures.

Try to avoid using salvaged materials as they are not able to withstand the wear and tear as newer materials. This is not an area to try to skimp on cost.

This older wood can be warped, difficult to work with or may be more apt to become damaged and simply not fit a new frame.

The older wood is actually hard. Ceilings that have beams are typically lower so it can be difficult to determine where to place the extensions properly.

That is why it is imperative to have an expert to work with you. This is no do it yourself project unless you are well experienced in structure of this nature.

Even then it takes a crew to determine the measurements and all the proper procedures.

There is no minimum ceiling height but a typical standard one is at least 2.4 meters from the floor to the ceiling, with 2.1 meters being a minimum.

If the ceilings are sloped and cathedral like or you want to use beams that follow the pitch of the roof, keep this in mind when adding extension beams.

A surveyor should be able to work alongside an architect to make sure that all of the ceilings are not too low as a result of adding wooden beams to the interior of a residence.

As previously mentioned, wattle and daub materials once consisted of earth and animal dung. There are more modern materials that satisfy the same purpose.

A mixture of lime and hemp can do the trick because it sets very solid. For insulation, use sheep's wool insulation for thermal purposes.

It will still comply with power and fuel regulations. Also, consider underfloor heating components which allow for the system to operate at a lower temperature allowing for heat to rise.

This method can also prevent the warm air and changing humidity from ruining the wooden beams and allowing them to last longer.

Never try to make wooden beam structural additions resemble perfection. The contrast and differences in the beams give more character to the aesthetics of the structure and the overall appearance of the interior.

The beams can give a room a certain feeling of comfort and warmth. The varying shades of wood or even the blemishes of the beams can add quirkiness.

Should you expose beams of your structure? 

You can create a more open space and there are several other reasons to show off the support beams.
If your house is listed as a part of history, remember that removing plaster that is historic may decrease the charm and appeal of an older house.

It could potentially damage most of the historic composition of the home including any wall art.
Exposing beams may look awkward if there are more contemporary additions to the space such as a modern fireplace or contemporary windows.

ge creates qualities in the beams such as sagging, bowing and bulging and may still be structurally sound. Messing with that can create a disaster if it is not gone about properly.

Sometimes it is better to repair old wooden beams rather than replace. If an area is significantly damaged, that is when you can and should make replacements with newer, more sound and reliable beams.

While exposing wooden beams are beautiful additions to add an interesting appeal to the inside of your home, it is a process that takes a considerable amount of planning and work.

In homes that are not listed as historic, the process can be completed without going through any red tape but keep in mind that what you may uncover may not be what you were hoping for.

Already existing old beams that were hidden will remove the encasing and expose what lies beneath.
Exposing beams can result in a big cloud of plaster, removing many nails and even staining or painting the beams so that they are attractive.

Some of the beams may have never been intended to be exposed in the first place and could result in severe ugliness perhaps from damage over time or even to mask fire damage to the interior.
It may be an undertaking that you are not ready for so definitely be prepared. Seek professional assistance to renovate and to keep from creating irreversible damages.