Open Boat Shed

[logbutcher]

When we clear out a patch for it, I need to build an open boat shed. There's plenty of blown down spruce and fir fir timbers nearby. Early spring storms have been fierce downeast. But: I've never timber framed.
Some questions:
1. Without a mill, is there any way to freehand chainsaw logs where they've dropped ? Then they could be skidded out with the ATV. I've freehand cut cedar posts on site for the boss' pergola last year. Made a hexagon...not too bad, not neat or even.  ;D
2. How do you make those lovely timber joints without serious experience and special tools (just have regular carpenter and building tools) ? 
3. The roof will be a simple shed type, pitch about 5-6 front to back . How to truss it ?
4. How about simple sketches of the thing from the experts ? OA measure: 20' wide, 30' long, height clearance below roof (for boat and trailer) 15' minimum at the low end.
Much thanks.

[Jim_Rogers]

1. Without a mill, is there any way to freehand chainsaw logs where they've dropped ?

There are lots of chain saw mounted things that will hold a chain saw so it cuts a straight line, you'll have to do a search here or on the web for such an attachment.

2. How do you make those lovely timber joints without serious experience and special tools (just have regular carpenter and building tools) ? 

Practice with the tools you have....

3. The roof will be a simple shed type, pitch about 5-6 front to back . How to truss it ?

Any truss isn't simple, it has to be designed correctly for the loads.

4. How about simple sketches of the thing from the experts ? OA measure: 20' wide, 30' long, height clearance below roof (for boat and trailer) 15' minimum at the low end.
Much thanks.

Simple sketches aren't going to do it, you need a complete accurate set of drawings. These take time and money....

Jim Rogers

[LedlieLogs]

20' wide and 30' long. That must be one heck of a boat. :D

[logbutcher]

20' wide and 30' long. That must be one heck of a boat. :D

Just a 28' trawler. The shed will be large enough to cover the boat and trailer, to allow room to work, and keep snow and rain off. Plenty of buildings, small barns, and sheds-- pole or timber framed around here. No "plans", no "engineered" trusses, lots of time, not a lot of money .   Buildings like that have been built by local farmers and loggers for generations that are still standing, and are being built now. Guess I'll take another serious look at those.