How to Do Post & Beam Framing

Commission an engineered plan and blueprints of the building or structure to be built. A key to post and beam construction is the sizing and placement of the beams, and this is dependent on the size of the structure as well as wind and weather loads.

Choose materials to be used. Some of this will be determined by the engineer's specifications as there are different types of beams for particular types of loads. Some structures require steel beams or solid timber. Others may utilize engineered beams of different types. Within the specifications, there are sometimes a variety of choices that can be made for beams, this is where your decision comes in. For instance an engineered beam with pockets can be useful if the beam will be placed where electrical conduit is run. A solid timber beam may be a good choice where it is visible for aesthetic purposes.

Create the proper mortise and tenon joints if you are using traditional solid beam construction. This is one of the simplest and oldest methods, and while it is time-consuming and somewhat expensive, it is reliable and long lasting. The ends of beams are cut into a tenon, or type of peg, while the posts are mortised, or cut out with a space that is the same size. The joints are then put together and fastened, using either bolts, anchors, or in the traditional method, wooden dowels are driven into pre-drilled holes through the joints.

Purchase a kit that includes everything needed to build a post and beam building for the simplest way of using this type of building plan. Smaller structures such as sheds and pole barns are commonly made with this method. Detailed plans and a kit with everything needed to create the structure can be purchased as a package and assembled on site.