Timber Frame Home and Barn Building Facts and Information by John Libby

	What sets you apart from other timber frame designers and other Maine builders?
	We provide timber framing architectural and construction services under one roof, so clients have the option of working with one team from start to finish as opposed to contracting with an architect to develop a design and then finding a builder to carry out the plans. Our "one stop shop" for design and build services saves our clients time and money because projects are carried out with form and function in mind. The architect, builder, and client are all involved in conceiving the project on paper, so there are no surprises or disappointments when it progresses to the construction stage. To begin conceptualizing your own timber frame home or barn, click here.
	How long does the timber frame home or barn design and construction process typically take?
	The timeline varies from client to client and project to project. The Design Phase: Some clients know exactly what they want, and those projects can be completed in several weeks. However, most clients don't have a clear vision. With these types of projects, it can take four to six months to finalize a design and develop construction drawings. Take your time during the design phase. Changes made on paper are much less costly than changes made during the construction phase. The Construction Phase: It usually takes six to 10 months to build a house depending on the size and location of the home, weather conditions, and the overall complexity of the project. Once a design is finalized, we devise a construction time schedule with an estimated completion date. We have a good track record when it comes to completing projects on time.
	What is your price per square foot?
	When it comes to custom timber frame construction, the price per square foot varies greatly depending on the materials and finishes a client intends to use. Please contact us to discuss your project in more detail so that we can provide you with an accurate cost estimate by submitting your own project summary here.
	What is timber framing? Is it the same thing as post and beam?
	Authentic timber framing is the joining of timbers using all wood connections. Post and beam construction, on the other hand, uses vertical and horizontal timbers connected together using steel plates or nails. In timber framing, each individual joint is custom designed to suit the specific load it is required to support. Nothing is generic. Timber framing also works to anticipate the natural characteristics of the wood, accommodating for shrinkage and shifting.
	Do you only build timber framed structures?
	While our roots are in timber framing, we can build whatever type structure a client desires, including a conventionally framed custom home or barn.
	Do you work off of stock plans?
	With our custom buildings we never use stock plans. Each of our designs is crafted to match the needs and lifestyle of an individual client. If you view our online portfolios for Custom Homes and Classic Barns, you'll see every project looks very different from the next.
	We have lots of ideas. How will you assimilate our thoughts into a workable design concept?
	You'll start by having an in-depth meeting with John Libby and our architect to review your visions for the project. We encourage you to bring along all your magazine clippings, idea lists, and color schemes to share. You will also complete our lifestyle questionnaire. It will inspire you to contemplate how you will get the most enjoyment out of your home. Our architect will craft a preliminary design based on your input, and we will continue revising it until you are pleased.
	I will not be able to make it to the job site often. How can I stay involved?
	We work often with clients that live out of state, so we're used to using technology to keep the lines of communication open. As the project progresses, we'll send you photos and even video so that you can see first-hand how things are developing. When it comes to important paperwork and critical decisions involving your structure, our team will send you all the information you need well in advance of the deadline. In addition, John Libby always has his cell phone on hand, so he's readily available to address any pressing questions or concerns personally.
	After the design has been finalized and the construction contract has been signed, can I still make changes?
	As a project begins to unfold, we understand that clients may desire additional modifications or upgrades. If a change will increase cost, we will provide you with cost information before proceeding.
	Can you send me additional information?
	Please contact us to order our information package or fill out our project summary form to request a quote.
	How long does it take to build a timber frame house or barn?
	The timeline varies from client to client and project to project. Generally, it usually takes 6 to 10 months to build a custom home. If the building site is 50 miles or more from our shop our crew lodges nearby to be ready daily for construction. This helps to insure against time lost due to weather conditions. Our new Signature Barn Series timber frames can be erected in 4-6 weeks once the timber has been delivered to our shop and cut to the desired dimensions. These barns offer the exceptional quality and timeless timber frame design that are trademarks of all our structures. The buildings can be made weather tight and the interior finished to be used as a living space or erected as a barn for all of your storage needs.
	Is there a difference between post and beam and timber framing?
	Authentic timber framing is the joining of timbers using all wood connections. Post and beam construction can be included in the definition of timber framing, however it is a more generic construction term. In timber frame joinery each individual joint is custom designed to suit the specific load it is required to support. Nothing is generic. Timber framing also works to anticipate the natural characteristics of the wood, accommodating for shrinkage and shifting. This Classic Timber Frame Barn illustrates the craft of traditional timber framing. For more information please visit Our Process page.
	Do you offer design services?
	Absolutely! Houses and Barns by John Libby offers full-service design and custom home construction. The architect, builder and client all work together as a team to take your custom project from conception to completion, whether the project is a timber frame or conventional framed home, addition or renovation. Our architect works to conceptualize the design ideas of each individual client. We will also work with your architect or existing plans if preferred. If you view our online portfolios for Custom Homes and Classic Barns, you'll see every project looks very different from the next. Our design contract permits the client to cancel the design contract at any time, for any reason. This is in place as an easy-out for the client who has not had the opportunity to work with our company and to experience the value we bring to our projects, if they are nervous about committing to the design process. Some of our clients have had less-than-positive interactions with other architects/designers and are hesitant to commit to that environment again. Each of our past clients has recognized the considerable value our design process has brought to their project.
	Do you work off of stock plans?
	Each of our designs is crafted to match the needs and lifestyle of an individual client. If you view our online portfolios for Custom Homes and Classic Barns, you'll see every project looks very different from the next. ) Although our Signature Barns are considered a package they all originate from original designs that have lasted the test of time and we have been able to streamline the construction to make a cost effective option for potential clients who want to build their own home or barn.
	Can you finish the interiors?
	Houses & Barns by John Libby partners with the best subcontractors and vendors in Maine and New England to complete the interior of your timber frame home to your satisfaction. We respect the fine work they do for our clients and consider them part of our team. Visit our Resources page to meet some of the vendors and artisans we work with on a regular basis.
	How energy efficient is a timber frame home vs. a conventionally built home?
	Houses & Barns by John Libby seeks to use the most energy efficient resources that are available on the market today. We advise the use of Structural Insulated Panels, when appropriate to the project, to be included in the construction pricing and building process. SIPs form an airtight seal, which helps stop air infiltration. Researchers have found SIPs to be 50% more energy efficient compared to traditional stick-framed construction. A house built with these panels may reap financial rewards from tax credits to heating cost reductions. These panels are a strong structural alternative to conventional framing and may be used for roof, wall and ceiling sheathing. They have a standard insulation thickness of 4.5 to 8 inches achieving R-values (resistance to heat loss rating) of 27 to 38. If dry wall is the preferred interior finish, SIPs can be manufactured with a dry wall layer on the interior. For more information visit the Houses & Barns blog to read about the Great Island Boat Yard project.
	Do you only build houses or can you build additions and other structures?
	Houses and Barns by John Libby builds a variety of custom timber frame structures to your specifications. Our recent projects have been as varied as an outhouse on an island 20 miles off the coast of Maine to a custom poultry barn to the new offices of the Great Island Boat Yard. Fill out our request for information form or call us at 207 865-4169 to set up a meeting with John Libby.
	How extensive is your knowledge about barn restoration and construction?
	John began his business in the mid-1970s revitalizing classic barns. As John's admiration of timeless craftsmanship grew, so did his knowledge of the fundamentals that enabled these centuries-old shelters to endure. Today, the skilled timber frame builders at Houses & Barns by John Libby use many of the same traditional skills John mastered through his experience restoring classic timber frame barns to build the finest quality structure whether it be a custom home, barn for storage or living space or addition and renovations to an existing home.
	How expensive is it to build a John Libby House or Barn?
	When it comes to custom timber frame construction, the price per square foot varies greatly depending on the materials and finishes a client intends to use. Please contact us to discuss your project in more detail so that we can provide you with an accurate cost estimate by submitting your own project summary here. You may also request our design questionnaire which will guide you in your plans for your own dream house or barn.