What is the difference between timber frame and post and beam?

Post and Beam and Timber Frame are terms that are often used interchangeably; however, there are some technical differences between the two:  a Timber Frame structure typically has interlocking wood-to-wood joinery.  A Post and Beam features less complicated joinery, and typically uses hidden metal fasteners for additional strength.  Recently, more timber frames have included hidden metal fasteners, as engineers generally prefer the consistency of a metal-to-wood connection over a wood-to-wood connection.

The framing systems also differ regarding assembly.  Timber Frame structures are typically assembled in bents, which are entire cross sections of the structure that must be assembled and raised one bent at a time.  Often, these sizable bents require larger machinery, a larger crew, and specialized tools and knowledge.  Our Habitat Post & Beam package assembles in the same order as a conventionally framed structure (first floor walls, mid-floor, second floor walls, then roof), and most of the tools used are consistent with those used in conventional framing.  A Timber Frame structure will require a framer who is very experienced with Timber Frame construction, while our Post and Beam system allows easy assembly, with no specialized skills on the part of a framer who is accustomed to conventional construction.