Timber Framing

Tips from Real-Estate-Agents.com

Checks are the grain separations that appear on the surface of the timbers. They are caused as the timbers dry and shrink. When wood begins to lose the water that can account for over seventy-five percent of its live weight, it shrinks in size. As the shrinkage occurs, the timber pulls itself apart in isolated areas along the grain lines.

While timbers will not shrink significantly in length, their cross-grain dimensions can shrink noticeably. This usually begins to appear in the first and second year after construction. For example, beams that were tightly butted against posts at the time of the frame raising might show gaps a year or two later. This shrinkage is taken into account in pre-engineering of timber sizes and joinery, and does not significantly affect structural integrity.

Evidence of shrinkage will also appear where the timbers meet the walls and roof. As the framing contracts, more of the wall or roof surface will be exposed and a paint or wallpaper line will appear. After the timbers have stabilized (usually within about three or four years), you may want to touch up the finish in these areas.

Braces will also shrink, but builders avoid the paint line by centering them on the post and girt rather than placing them flush against the wall. This provides enough space for the painter or paperhanger to extend the finish behind the brace.

-- Tips courtesy of Service Magic