"simple" timber frame porch

dablack · June 15, 2015, 03:40:56 PM

Ok Guys! Here pretty soon I'm going to be putting a front porch on my house https://forestryforum.com/board/index.php/topic,73722.0.html.

I would like it to be timber frame if it isn't too rough (hard). The span between posts is 13' and the posts are 8x8s. I think the beams are 8x10 (I can't remember right now) and 13' long. The angled braces can be 6x6 or whatever. What would be the best (easiest) way to put the braces in? I have handtools and don't mind buying a chisel if need be.

Is there a book I should buy that will detail the joint? It doesn't have to be perfect but I would like for it to use as little metal as possible.

Also, I know that since the beams are only 13' long and that is the span from the center of each post, that I'm going to have to use SOME metal to hold them together. Any hints on how to hide that metal?

thanks
Austin

Andy White · June 15, 2015, 05:18:34 PM

Austin,
When you get ready, I'll bring you my timber framing tools, and my book by Jack Sobon. That will tell and show every thing you need. Also, the threads at the top of this page will help you a lot also. All my chisels are sharp and ready to go to work. Just shout, and we will do this thing. 8) 8) 8) :P :P Andy
PS> Tips on the metal, Don't use any. Use a scarf joint for the beam. Andy

Dave Shepard · June 15, 2015, 06:09:44 PM

Quote from: Andy White on June 15, 2015, 05:18:34 PM
Austin,
When you get ready, I'll bring you my timber framing tools, and my book by Jack Sobon. That will tell and show every thing you need. Also, the threads at the top of this page will help you a lot also. All my chisels are sharp and ready to go to work. Just shout, and we will do this thing. 8) 8) 8) :P :P Andy
PS> Tips on the metal, Don't use any. Use a scarf joint for the beam. Andy

8)

dablack · June 16, 2015, 10:32:34 AM

Quote from: Andy White on June 15, 2015, 05:18:34 PM
PS> Tips on the metal, Don't use any. Use a scarf joint for the beam. Andy

Thanks Andy. I really appreciate it. The problem with the metal is that my beams are only 13' long (I think) and that is also how far they have to span. So, not enough length for a scarf joint.

Austin