Midwest Custom Timber Frames offers authentic, fine-crafted timber frames cut to exacting specifications. Our frames are hand cut one at a time, using no computer-guided machinery. Once all joinery cuts are complete, frames are sanded and oiled before shipment. We will come to your site to raise the frame, install the stress skin panels, and to install exterior windows and doors.
About Us
Helping your dream home come alive one frame at a time
MIDWEST CUSTOM TIMBER FRAMES
ONLY QUALITY
Our frames are typically cut from white oak or red oak, using larger timbers, 8×8 or 8×10 floor beams, 8×8 or 8×10 rafters, 6×8 floor joists, and 5×7 purlins. Timber species other than oak may also be used.
We welcome small, large, simple or complex projects. Designing and creating your timber frame to reflect your own unique personal expression is our goal as well as yours.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What does timber framing cost?
Typically, timber framing runs 20% to 30% more than conventional stud framing in our locale.
2. Why timber framing instead of conventional?
Timber frames are very strong, unique, aesthetically pleasing and awesome to behold. Enclosed with a panelized system, they are very energy efficient as well. Open spaces and vaulted ceilings are easily accomplished with timber frames. Timber frames can be adapted to various floor plans.
3. Which timber species are available?
We typically frame with oak but other woods are available.
4. How will the outside of my timber frame be finished?
Your choice of a variety of exterior finishes may be used. You can even use a maintenance-free finish if desired.
5. What are my framing options?
At Midwest Custom Timber Frames we frame with a top plate system which provides greater flexibility for design than with a bent system. It allows us to define areas with timbers. Typically, we include timber framed staircases in two-story frames.
6. How will my timbers be finished?
We use planed timbers then apply a tung oil finish. After the frame is enclosed, the owner may apply a final finish coat if desired.
7. What type of foundation can I build on?
Your choice of slab, crawlspace, basement or a combination.
8. Are plumbing and HVAC difficult to install in a timber frame?
No, but consideration of these should be discussed during the design phase.
9. Is electrical wiring difficult to install in the stress-skin panel enclosure system?
No. The panels come with a wire chase at receptacle height. Exterior wall switches, receptacles and light fixture location planning should be complete prior to panel installation. It will be necessary for an electrician to be on-site once panel installation begins.
10. What size will the framing timbers be?
We typically use 8×8 rafters, 8×8 and 8×10 floor beams, 6×8 joists, 5×7 purlins, and 4×6 braces. A 3×6 is usually the smallest component we use. Compare our sizes to other companies. For long spans or heavy loads we will increase timber sizes.
11. How will my timber frame be enclosed?
Yes, we are proud to show our work. In Missouri, our joinery shop and storage barn are both timber framed, displaying many different types of joinery. There are also other completed homes and projects we can show you.
12. Are there any completed projects we can tour?
We use planed timbers then apply a tung oil finish. After the frame is enclosed, the owner may apply a final finish coat if desired.