Faq Center

What does Western Timber Frame build?

At Western Timber Frame, we create handcrafted timber structures that bring people together—spaces that feel grounded, lasting, and deeply personal.

From quiet backyard retreats to large-scale commercial projects, we design and build custom pavilions, pergolas, gazebos, cabanas, arbors, trellises, decks, and more. We also specialize in finish-grade commercial timber framing—supplying and installing exposed structural and decorative timbers for parks, campuses, resorts, civic spaces, and public venues.

If you’re building with purpose and want something that lasts, exposed timber framing might be exactly what you’re looking for. We bring strength, warmth, and timeless beauty to both private and public spaces, always with craftsmanship that shows.

Our work is for:

Families creating meaningful spaces to gather, relax, and reconnect
Homeowners who want their yard or property to feel like an extension of home
Businesses, cities, and organizations building parks, campuses, resorts, venues, or civic spaces
Architects, builders, and designers who need exposed timber elements that are structural, beautiful, and seamlessly integrated

Whether it’s a pavilion for a local park, a grand timber entryway, a custom boathouse, or a quiet backyard retreat, we’ll help bring your vision to life—with craftsmanship that shows and a process shaped by decades of timber expertise.

Timber framing is a way of building with big, solid timbers—joined together by shape, not by nails, screws, or glue.

Think of how a trailer hitch slides into the receiver—tight and secure. Or how a socket clicks perfectly onto a wrench. When the pieces fit just right, they hold steady under weight and pressure—because of how they’re made.

That’s how our timber joints work. One timber is shaped to fit into another. The connection is strong, clean, and built to last for generations.One of the oldest and most trusted ways to do this is called a mortise and tenon.

A mortise and tenon joint is a classic method of connecting two timbers—strong, simple, and built to last.

One beam is shaped with a tenon, the other with a matching mortise. When joined, they form a tight, interlocking connection that can hold the weight of a structure and adapt to the natural movement of wood over time.

This age-old technique is still one of the most trusted forms of joinery—and at Western Timber Frame, we’ve taken it a step further through precision engineering and innovation.That next step is what we call The Dovetail Difference®.

This is where Western Timber Frame truly sets itself apart.

The Dovetail Difference® is our patented joint system—created by our founder and timberwright, Hyrum Thompson. It’s a signature connection that improves on traditional mortise and tenon with a tapered, interlocking dovetail—cut with such precision, each beam connects with purpose—solid, true, and built to last.

The fit is so precise it feels intuitive—like the wood knows where it belongs.

Stronger. The angled joinery locks timbers into place, creating a frame that’s as enduring as it is elegant.
Smarter. Allows for natural wood movement (expansion and shrinkage) without loosening over time.
Faster. Even large structural beams align easily and install cleanly. Whether you’re building a private shade shelter or spanning a public plaza, the system brings strength and simplicity together.
More beautiful. Hidden joinery. Seamless lines. Timeless look—a quiet showcase of craftsmanship—where every line speaks of care, tradition, and attention to detail.

Beyond The Dovetail Difference® are many more innovations Hyrum has developed—each one created to serve builders, families, and communities with better, stronger, more enduring timber structures.

From the first conversation, you’re in experienced hands—whether you’re building a private retreat or a public gathering space.

For commercial projects, we partner with architects, general contractors, and project teams to bring structural timber solutions to life. Our role is flexible—we can provide expert consultation, structural design, or simply supply and install finish-grade timber framing as part of your broader vision. We speak the language of large-scale construction and respect the rhythm of your process, offering craftsmanship, precision, and timely execution where it matters most.

For residential spaces, we offer the same level of care and craftsmanship—along with design expertise and support to help shape a structure that truly fits your space and lifestyle. From first idea to final beam, we make the process smooth and clear —just as we would for our own family.

Here’s what the journey looks like:

Reach out. Call or fill out a form to begin.
Connect with a Lead Timberwright Consultant. We’ll collaborate with you—or your team—to shape the right solution.
Receive a clear, tailored quote. Transparent and aligned with your scope and vision.
Choose your build method. We offer precision-cut timber shipped to your site, or full on-site installation.
Watch it come together. Our patented Dovetail Difference® makes assembly smooth, efficient, and enduring—whether you’re building a family space or a civic landmark.

No stress. No guesswork. Just timeless timber design and expert guidance—every step of the way.

We offer both options—depending on what fits your project best.

Many of our residential clients choose to have their structure professionally installed by our team. For those who prefer to handle it themselves (or with the help of a contractor), we provide a fully pre-cut and pre-fit timber frame system that’s designed for a smooth, straightforward assembly. All components arrive clearly labeled, pre-notched, and ready to go—with detailed instructions and expert support just a phone call away.

For commercial and large-scale projects, our team frequently provides on-site installation or coordinates with your existing crew to ensure a seamless, professional build.Whether we install it for you or you take the lead on-site, we’re here to make sure your project is set up for success—with precision, clarity, and the strength of the Dovetail Difference®.

We build with high-quality, appearance-grade timber—sourced directly from trusted U.S. mills. The primary wood types we use are:

Redwood
Western Red Cedar
#1 Appearance Grade Douglas Fir

These timbers are selected for their exceptional strength, natural beauty, and long-term durability. Every piece is carefully cut and prepared to ensure a smooth installation and a stunning final result.Our clients—whether homeowners, contractors, or commercial partners—often tell us how impressed they are with the precision of the build and the majestic presence of the finished structure.

This is one of the most common questions we get—and the honest answer is: it depends.

Because every Western Timber Frame® structure is custom-built to fit your space, needs, and vision, pricing can vary depending on several key factors:

Size and footprint of the structure
Timber type and finish (rough-sawn, smooth, stained, etc.)
Design complexity (roof style, truss design, corbels, and decorative elements)
Site accessibility and location
Installation method (self-installed or installed by our timberwrights)

Timber structures typically cost more than standard construction materials—but they also last longer, look better, and add timeless value to your space. Whether you’re building a backyard retreat or a commercial gathering space, we’ll help you find the right design within your budget.

If you’re just getting started, we’re happy to provide a free design consultation and quote, with no obligation. We’ll walk you through your options and help you understand how to get the best value for your investment.

Shipping is free anywhere in the contiguous United States.

For clients in Alaska, Hawaii, or Canada, we’re happy to arrange delivery and provide a custom shipping quote based on your location.

Our timber structures are heavy—often weighing thousands of pounds—so we take special care in how they’re shipped and received.

When possible, we’ll deliver your structure to a location with forklift access, such as a business, landscape company, or job site. If you don’t have access to a forklift, no problem—we can ship your structure to the nearest freight terminal for pickup.From there, the pallet can be unloaded by hand, piece by piece, at your installation site using a flatbed trailer. Our team will walk you through your best delivery options to ensure the process is smooth, safe, and right for your situation.

Very easy. Our TimberVolt® power post system is a patent-pending, self-contained solution that brings power directly into your timber structure—cleanly and seamlessly.

We can integrate electrical outlets, USB ports, and even low-voltage lighting options right into the post itself—making it simple to power fans, lights, TVs, speakers, or device chargers without exposed cords or complicated retrofitting.

For remote locations, the TimberVolt® system can be paired with a generator or portable power source (like a Goal Zero unit) using an integrated plug connection—perfect for cabins, camps, or event spaces off the grid.No trenching. No hassle. Just smart design built into beautiful timber.

Yes—and they work beautifully together.

Our timber structures offer an ideal platform for solar integration. Many solar contractors and homeowners choose our pavilions and pergolas as a functional, visually appealing alternative to bulky solar stands or rooftop installations.

Whether you’re maximizing shade and energy at the same time or creating a dual-purpose outdoor space, timber framing offers the strength and surface area needed for a clean, effective solar setup—without sacrificing your yard, view, or aesthetics.

We’re happy to coordinate with your solar provider to ensure a smooth installation.

Yes—and for many, it’s actually the perfect time.

Our timber frame structures are built to handle all seasons, including winter installation. Timber is naturally durable and doesn’t suffer the same issues as conventional framing when exposed to cold or moisture. The materials hold up beautifully, and so does our process.

Many homeowners and commercial clients use the winter months to make progress on their spaces—so they’re ready to enjoy them come spring. And building in winter means you can often skip the seasonal rush and get your structure completed faster.

Cold weather doesn’t slow us down—and it doesn’t have to slow your plans either.

Sustainable timber is harvested in a way that protects and preserves forests for future generations.

At Western Timber Frame™, we source all of our timber from U.S. mills that follow strict renewable growth and forest management policies. These mills are committed to responsible harvesting—ensuring that for every tree used, more are planted in its place.

We personally visit and verify these mill sites to ensure they meet the highest environmental standards. It’s not just about the quality of the timber—it’s about the long-term health of the forests we depend on.

In fact, for every structure we build, approximately 49 trees are planted—a legacy that grows with every project.

Checking refers to small, natural cracks that appear in solid timber as it adjusts to its environment.

Once your structure is installed, the timber will begin to acclimate to the local climate—temperature, humidity, and altitude. As it settles, you may notice narrow splits along the grain. This is completely normal and expected when working with large, natural timbers.

Checking is cosmetic, not structural, and doesn’t weaken the wood in any way. In fact, it’s a common feature seen in barns, lodges, and cathedrals around the world—adding character and authenticity to every beam.If lighter areas appear inside the check, they can be touched up with stain or left to naturally blend over time. Many people see checking as a hallmark of true timber framing—a sign that their structure is real, handcrafted, and made to endure.

Checking is a natural part of working with large timbers—and there’s no way to completely prevent it.

As timber adjusts to its new environment, it responds to changes in moisture, temperature, and air exposure. This movement can cause visible cracks or “checks” to appear on the surface. While they may look concerning at first, these checks are completely normal and do not weaken the structural integrity of the timber.

In fact, checking often releases internal tension in the wood, making the timber more stable over time. It’s one of the reasons timber has been trusted for centuries in buildings that still stand today.While some people choose to fill checks for aesthetic reasons, we don’t generally recommend it—because wood will continue to move with the seasons. Instead, we encourage clients to see checking as part of what makes real timber so beautiful: it’s living, breathing, and built to last.

Our timber frames are engineered to withstand 120+ mph winds—and have held firm in Category 5 hurricanes. Heavy timber plus our patented Dovetail Difference® joinery creates a tight, resilient frame that resists pullout and stands strong in extreme weather.

Yes. We design every structure to meet your region’s snow load requirements, using dense, durable timbers selected for their strength and stability. Unlike lighter materials, timber frames naturally distribute weight—no sagging, no bowing—just solid, lasting support all winter long.

Timber framing is one of the most trusted structural systems in seismic zones—backed by history and reinforced by modern engineering.

Our patented Dovetail Difference® joinery allows the timbers to respond to ground movement within precision-cut cavities—maintaining strong, stable connections without relying on rigid fasteners that can fail under stress. This approach helps reduce pressure points and preserves the structural integrity of the frame as the earth shifts.

While no building can be called earthquake-proof, timber framing has consistently outperformed other systems in seismic testing and real-world events. From modern engineered schools and civic buildings in earthquake-prone regions to historic timber barns and bridges that have stood for generations, timber proves its resilience time and time again.When designed well, timber works with the earth, not against it—making it one of the smartest ways to build in seismic zones.

For structural connections, timber offers a better solution. Over time, metal brackets can rust, loosen, or create stress points that compromise the wood. That’s why we use our patented Dovetail Difference® joinery—a clean, interlocking system that allows timber to expand and contract naturally while maintaining a strong, seamless connection.We do incorporate metal elements when they’re purposeful—whether for architectural contrast, functionality, or custom design features. But when strength and longevity matter most, we let the timber do the work.

Yes. We build structures for coastal regions, mountain climates, and poolside settings all the time, and we use timbers that are proven to perform in moisture-heavy environments.

Redwood is a top choice for high humidity and salt air because of its natural resistance to decay, rot, and insects. For poolside projects, Douglas Fir also performs beautifully when properly sealed—offering excellent strength and stability, even with regular water exposure.We’ll help you choose the right timber for your location, so your structure stays strong, beautiful, and low-maintenance—no matter the weather.

Timber has a superior strength-to-weight ratio, dampens vibration, and doesn’t rust or crumble like steel or concrete. It’s sustainable, durable, and warm—a material that lasts and looks good doing it.