Traditional Timber Framing​

 

Timber framing has a rich history in New England and prior to the late 19th century it was the way things were built. However, as high output sawmills began producing dimensional lumber, the craft of framing with large timbers quickly became obsolete. It wasn't until the 1970s, when a small group of New England carpenters began to relearn the craft of creating joinery and building with large timbers. Since this revival, timber framing has gained popularity as a beautiful and unique alternative to conventional framing.

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North Kinsman Woodworks provides frames of all shapes and sizes; cut by hand and raised to span many lifetimes.

 

Conventional Framing w/ Timber elements

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For those who are not fully committed to the timber frame aesthetic, we offer conventional framing with timber details. This hybrid approach allows clients to frame with dimensional lumber while using timbers to accent areas of the home, whether it be a great room or porch. This can be an affordable alternative when building your home.  

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Sawmilling and wood products

 

Custom wood products are the heart and soul of North Kinsman Woodworks.  Sitting on 300 acres of wooded land at the base of Mt. Kinsman, wood is pulled directly to the bandsaw mill off of our property. Native species that we use include: Eastern White Pine, Hemlock, Spruce, Oak, Cherry, Yellow Birch, Elm, Ash and Maple. We also work closely with local arborists who occasionally supply saw logs that are otherwise destined for the chipper or wood boiler. 

With adequate planning and lead time (up to two years), we can accommodate landowners who wish to build with their own supply. Whether it be a whole house or a piece of furniture, this process can be very rewarding.

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Historical Restoration

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So much of what we do is based on honoring the craft and tradition of those that came before us. When it comes to carpentry, there is little that is more exciting than taking apart and refurbishing something that was built a century prior. There is always something to be learned and something to marvel at when we consider the materials and tools these craftsmen had to work with. From experience, we have learned that the best way to replicate something is to use the same wood and the same tools as those who built it first.