Description
This presentation explores the history, construction, and conservation of timber-framed buildings, highlighting techniques like dendrochronology for dating, traditional craftsmanship, and modern repair strategies used to preserve these complex historic structures.
Key Points:
- Timber Frame Identification and Evolution:
Many timber-framed buildings are hidden behind later facades, requiring detailed inspection and historical understanding to identify. These buildings evolved through centuries, reflecting changes in materials, techniques, and social needs. - Construction Techniques and Materials:
Traditional construction involved complex joinery (like mortise and tenon), region-specific styles, and materials such as wattle and daub. Innovations such as crook frames and hammer beam trusses showcase regional adaptation and engineering ingenuity. - Repair and Preservation Strategies:
Effective restoration involves both traditional and modern techniques, including the use of tie rods, metal plates, and limewash. Dendrochronology and stable isotope analysis aid in accurate dating, while sustainable wood sourcing and heartwood use support long-term durability.
Learning Objectives:
- Recognise the architectural features and historical significance of timber-framed buildings, including their evolution and regional variations.
- Understand traditional timber construction methods such as joinery types, infill materials, and timber selection based on durability and structural function.
- Apply appropriate conservation and repair techniques using a combination of historical craftsmanship and modern interventions to maintain structural integrity and historical authenticity.
