Our Timber Frame Structures
Crafted with traditional techniques and intended for modern use, our Timber Frame structures enhance your outdoor aesthetic and everyday life. Whether you seek a centerpiece for gorgeous gatherings or a practical, beautiful storage solution, our structures are expertly designed for you.
Timber Frame Pavilions
Timber frame pavilions are the most iconic and versatile form of timber frame construction, widely used in outdoor venues and spaces, with several styles available to enhance any setting.
Timber Frame Gallery
What is Timber Frame Construction?
Simply put, timber frame construction is a unique method of construction that uses only wood to create a load-bearing structure. The key to timber framing is in the joinery. The mortise and tenon joints, as well as dovetail joints, are known for their inherent strength and are built to come together like puzzle pieces without mechanical fasteners. This type of construction requires high levels of precision to ensure the structural integrity and aesthetic quality of the timber frame.
About Timber Frame Construction
What Makes Timber Framing Special?
Timber frame construction has proved itself for centuries. One of the oldest surviving examples in the United States stands in Dedham, Massachusetts, dating to the early 1600s, a quiet testament to long-term stability. Paired with modern insulation and detailing, timber frames can be notably energy efficient and environmentally responsible, delivering comfort with fewer wasted resources.
The appeal is unmistakable. Vaulted volumes, exposed timbers, sculpted trusses, and crisp joinery create a warm, architectural presence that reads both elegant and rustic. Few building methods offer this combination of permanence, character, and visual clarity.
The Tradition
At Lancaster County Backyard, we honor the long lineage of timber framing. Its roots reach back to antiquity, with early examples dated between the fifth and first centuries BC, and one of the oldest surviving structures standing since the seventh century in a Tibetan monastery. For centuries, heavy timber was the standard across many regions until the Industrial Revolution introduced faster, lighter building methods. While light wood framing prioritizes speed and low cost, the time proven timber approach delivers a structure noted for reliability, longevity, and unmistakable character.
Elite Craftsmanship
Lancaster County Backyard brings timber framing into today with CNC guided automation to ensure precise timbers, tight joints, and a structurally sound finish. Each Douglas fir member is milled to exact dimensions for a clean, accurate fit. We select #1 Douglas fir for dependable strength and durability, a grade known to handle heavy loads without bending or breaking, so the frame assembles true and stays true.
What is CNC Processing?
CNC machining uses computer guided equipment to shape each timber to exact tolerances. Components seat cleanly and lock in square, giving the frame lasting strength and stability. The digital process delivers the same high standard from piece to piece across our sheds, pavilions, and barns, with smooth surfaces that finish beautifully and stand up over time.
The “Mortise and Tenon” Joint
A mortise is a slot cut into a beam, and a tenon is the matching tongue that fits into that slot. Joined together, they create a connection known for mechanical strength and long-term stability. The approach has served everything from fine furniture to traditional buildings for centuries. At Lancaster County Backyard, we cut and fit mortise and tenon joints to tight tolerances so each structure stands firm and presents a clean, refined look.
Bring it Home
Why wait? Whether you’re envisioning a timber frame pavilion, shed, or a custom home addition, Lancaster County Backyard brings the expertise, knowledge, and resources to bring your vision to life. Join the long history of majestic timber framing and add breathtaking beauty to your property today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Timber Framing
Does Lancaster County Backyard build Timber Frame Barns?
Yes, please contact us to discuss your project.
Is Western Red Cedar an option instead of Douglas Fir?
Yes, Western Red Cedar is an option for a significant upcharge.
How to maintain a Timber Frame structure?
Timber Frame structures are beautiful but require regular maintenance to ensure they remain durable and attractive throughout the years.
UV rays (sunlight) and moisture (rain/snow) are wood’s natural enemies; hence, attention must be given to protecting the wood.
• Post Stand-off brackets, are important to elevate the posts above the patio surface. 3/4th inch stand-off brackets are included with all standard structures.
• Installing rain gutters minimizes splash-back of rainwater off the roof.
• We recommend staining your structure and consistently reapplying stain as necessary.
Stains typically last 1-3 years on the sections exposed to sunlight and moisture, and up to 10+ years in areas protected from the elements. It is better to re-stain before the original stain fades or shows obvious signs of wear.
Do I need Post Standoffs?
If your structure has exposed wooden posts and the patio consists of pavers with concrete footers/piers under the pavers, post standoffs are recommended so the bottoms of the wooden posts do not reside beneath the patio surface. The top of each concrete pier should be located 2.5” beneath the top of the paver stones in that exact area. (View example PDF here)
Where Does Lancaster County Backyard Install Timber Frame Sheds?
Lancaster County Backyard primarily installs Timber Frame Sheds in PA, NJ, DE, MD, VA, NY, and CT. However, in most cases, Lancaster County Backyard offers installation for backyard structures within a 200-mile radius from our location. Costs may increase significantly outside of this radius.
Can LCB provide engineered stamped drawings if required by your municipality?
In most states, we are able to provide engineered/architectural stamped drawings for pavilions for an additional fee. Contact us to begin the process.
Why Do Timber Frame Structures Cost More than Standard Construction Projects?
Generally, timber frame structures cost more than standard construction projects because they require higher-quality materials and specialized craftsmanship. Additional intricate design elements and high-end aesthetics also contribute to the cost. However, considering the appearance and enduring quality of timber frame buildings, the slightly higher cost of a timber frame structure is a rewarding investment.
Read more about our costs here.
Can I Customize the Timber Frame Designs?
Excellent question! Yes. Lancaster County Backyard can fully customize any of our structures; however, full customization is only available for a small number of customers each year. Smaller customizable choices, such as stain, paint, shingle colors, or ramps, shelves, and window additions, are more readily available.
If customization is requested, the following Design Phase process can be expected:
- You provide the size and structure design/details.
- LCB will provide a budget number.
- You enter the Design Phase (payment required).
- LCB will draw the structure and work with you to adjust the design as needed.
- LCB will provide a firm estimate.
Where Does Lancaster County Backyard Install Timber Frame Structures?
LCB installs Timber Frame structures primarily in the Mid-Atlantic states, but can frequently offer installation in any of the states in the East.
Is a Permit Required for a Timber Frame Structure?
In most cases, permits are required for building projects. Permit requirements often vary by state, county, city, or local municipality. Lancaster County Backyard does not obtain permits for our timber frame sheds, pavilions, or other backyard structures. Check your state and local laws for the most accurate permit requirements for you!
Are your timber frame pavilions made by hand?
We believe quality starts with precision. That’s why our craftsmen use advanced CNC routers and computerized equipment to cut each timber frame with accuracy. Every piece is handled, even when heavy members are positioned with lifts rather than carried by hand. Many pieces are hand-sanded, while the remaining timbers are sanded with a large timber sander. The result is machine accuracy with careful human attention at every step.
What kinds of custom timber framing projects do you offer?
Our most popular timber framing product is our timber frame pavilions, but we can also produce timber framing storefronts, barn fronts, interior beams, attached pavilions, and more. Get in touch to discuss your unique project!
Do you use exclusively mortise and tenon joinery in timber framing?
Mortise and tenon is the architectural term for the joining of posts, beams, and braces using a tightly interlocking design that’s secured with wood pegs rather than metal fasteners. Projects that feature exposed beams with mechanical fasteners are typically classified as post and beam construction rather than timber frame. While mortise and tenon is preferred on our timber frame projects, depending on the design we may suggest the inclusion of hidden, minimal, or artfully integrated metal brackets and straps in order to maintain budgetary requirements, or produce a different kind of look.
What kind of lumber do you use for timber framing?
Our timber frame structures are forged from #1 Douglas Fir – a deluxe-quality lumber preferred by many people. One inch solid oak pegs are used in the mortise and tenon joinery.
Revolutionize Your Outdoors in 3 Steps
1. Customize & Quote
Use our online quote form, or give us a call to discuss your project. Once we confirm your design, we produce an estimate for your approval.
2. Sign & Deposit
Review and approve the estimate, and place your order with a down payment. You prepare your space as we prepare your structure.
3. Schedule & Build
Once your structure is ready, it’s delivered to your property and/or constructed on-site. You enjoy outdoor happiness and hosting like never before!
Completed Timber Frame Structures
Testimonials & Reviews
We just had our new 10×12 Gazebo installed yesterday. It’s even prettier than we imagined and the installers were fantastic. So happy–thank you LCB!
Great service! Excellent craftsmanship! Highly recommend!
professionally built gazebo with good price, very well equipped delivery and smooth installation
I own a construction company and can appreciate a professional crew that grinds throughout the day to complete their project. I received exactly what I asked for and the cleanup that followed was exceptional.
We just had a 14×16 pavilion built and we love it! It’s exactly what we wanted. It is well constructed and completed on time. All of the workers were very professional and on time. We would highly recommend.
It’s rare you come across a contractor now a days that is courteous throughout the process, shows up when they say they will, and gives you more than you could have hoped for!
Well done Lancaster County Backyard!
They do great work. I looked at several companies and I am very pleased with the quality of the structure and the service they’ve provided.
He handled my concerns . Elmer went over every detail with precision. I received consistent emails from Elmer on the progress of what I wanted exactly. Together we came up with a beautiful 14×28 high wall barn
Garage. Within 3 weeks Elmer contacted me about ground work and grading with the stone.
They actually brought the garage the same day. Ivan and his son worked for 8 hours till the spot was perfect.
They dropped the garage in place with precision. In this day and age it is rare to have a company and employees that care about there product and service. I personally thank Elmer Lee, Ivan and Jason
For there exceptional work ethics. All I can say is if you need a shed,garage, gazebo you will definitely want to visit Lancaster County Backyard on New Holland Rd. In Kinzers,Pa.
You will be very happy from beginning to end.
Sincerely, David Chimchirian
Am very happy with Lancaster County Backyards. Our 14 foot gazebo was delivered on time and is a beautiful addition to our yard.
It was an absolute pleasure dealing with your company and you personally. We are so happy with the finished product.The workmanship is superior to other shed companies. We have and will recommend you to our friends and family. Thank you
A great group of people to deal with. Our gazebo was built with quality materials and exceeded our expectations. My wife and I enjoy both breakfast and dinner there as often as we can. We love the openness and shade it offers.
Wonderful experience with the planning and building of our pavilion. They were so helpful and the workmanship was top notch. It’s become the new favorite part of our home. We love sitting outside in the rain!
Excellent experience with the construction of a custom pergola. Very professional. Work was done efficiently and first rate quality. Highly recommend.
The re-roof these folks performed on our cedar shake gazebo was beautiful. The attention to detail was particularly impressive. Everything was removed and replaced in one day. Fantastic!