What is timber framing?

Timber framing or half-timbering is a historical predecessor of modern timber frame construction. A half-timbered building is a wooden construction of vertical posts, horizontal beams and diagonal braces. The walls of this 'skeleton' can be closed by covering a wickerwork or braid of flexible twigs or split slats with a mixture of loam and straw. 

For centuries, timber framing was technically a good alternative to using brick and natural stone in large parts of Europe, including Flanders, were stone was not always available or affordable. Because it requires more maintenance than a stone structure, half-timbering was hardly used after the start of the twentieth century. Today, however, building with wood and loam is having a revival due to its ecological benefits. 

Technical terms

Winnowing barn

Below we list the various components that make up a half-timbered structure based on the plans of the winnowing barn.