Post Frame Construction Terminology

Basic Terms

• The primary feature of post-frame construction is that the method of support is derived from a vertical "post" in the ground. The "post" then supports the horizontal members that comprise the "frame." "Frame" components include "eave plates," which extend between the post tops providing support for "rafters" or "purlins," which are the skeleton for the roof or floor.

ConnectionTypes

• Timber post frame construction is achieved utilizing only wood connections such as "wooden pins" or "mortise and tenon" joints. "Mortise and tenon" joints are made by creating a "slot" and a "peg" in the wood itself. "Post and beam" framing member connections are typically made using metal brackets.

King Post Types

• "King post" designs can be "bent" or "truss" types. "Bent king posts" go all the way from floor to "ridge beam," while a "truss king post" starts at the "tie plate," going upward. Imagine an equilateral triangle with the apex as the "ridge," sides forming "rafters" and the base comprising the "tie plate."