1. Post and Beam Homes Frame – What are the most important factors to consider?
First, the quality and structural integrity of the wood in post and beam homes. We insist on using only the finest quality kiln dried Douglas Fir Structural Select or #1 grade wood for structural integrity and durability in our post and beam homes. We do not use green or unseasoned timbers and only source from members of the Sustainable Forestry Initiative.
Second, the method used to make the connections in post and beams homes. A post and beam half lap joinery system is over 1000 years old and known for its great strength, ease and cost efficiency of fabrication and assembly. Because of these simpler connections, our frame can be assembled by a general carpentry crew without the need for a specialized joinery crew. When completed, the half-lap joints offer a more attractive look with clean, simple lines and are significantly less labor intensive than mortise and tenon joinery.
2. True Panels™ vs. SIP – Aren’t they the same thing?
No. The core of our True Panel™ system is traditional dimensional lumber construction. SIPs (Structural Insulated Panel) consist of foam insulation sandwiched between sheathing (most commonly ½”Oriented Strand Board, a.k.a.“Chip Board”), typically adhered with glue. If moisture is absorbed, the interior can act as a sponge and the exterior may rot if exposed to the elements. SIPs are not self supporting and need to hang off a frame. The layers of the sandwich, if not manufactured correctly may cause issues with the panel peeling.
Yankee Barn Homes’ True Wall™ Panels are a REAL 2×6 framed wall panelized in our factory using only the highest quality materials: 2×6 studs at 16” on center, polyisocyanurate insulation with spray foam between each stud bay, pre-installed Low E or better windows (your choice of manufacturers including Andersen or Marvin) installed using Dupont Flashing Systems and Flex Wrap, insulated headers, and ZIP sheathing. Each panel is built with a lifting loop and a panel joint for quick and easy on-site assembly of our post and beam homes.
Yankee Barn Homes’ True Roof™ Panels is the only panelized roof with a built-in vent. Roof panels are constructed using 2×8 or larger framing fastened with nails rather than with a chemical bond or adhesive to maintain structural integrity. A criss-crossing layer of polyisocyanurate insulation reduces thermal breaks and heat loss. Built into the panel design is a full width roof vent space to assure a cold roof deck, as required by many shingle manufacturers’ warranties, it also helps minimize ice dams and prolongs the shingle life. The panel joint is designed for a very low risk for panel gap and retards moisture migration from the living areas from infiltrating the roof. Combined, Yankee Barn Homes True Wall™ and Roof™ Panels, starting with R Values of 26.2 and 55 respectively, combine to create an impeccably sealed “building envelope”. This efficient home system is produced with less than 0.5% waste and assembles quickly – most homes are weather tight in less than two weeks as shown in this video: Post and Beam Homes Weather Tight in Under Two Weeks
3. Insulation – Polyiso……what?
Polyisocyanurate insulation is the most thermally efficient rigid board insulation available in the marketplace and provides the highest R Value per inch of thickness. “Polyiso” is much better for the environment than polystyrene, the common alternative. Polystyrene contains a particular type of hydro fluorocarbon that is 1,430 times a more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide. It would take 65 years of greenhouse gases saved by this insulation to offset the damage this hydro fluorocarbon does. Polyiso is an ideal choice for green building design, offering reduced fossil fuel consumption, highest thermal efficiency, zero ozone depletion potential, zero global warming potential, and uses recycled content.
4. Design – What are my limitations?
Thanks to our True Panel™ system, your design is as flexible as that of any custom building method but combined with the beauty of post and beam homes. We have sample floor plans available but most of our homes are custom designed by our in-house design staff based on your wants, needs and budget, taking into account your site, solar gains and slope of the land. The design fee is included with your Yankee Barn Home – no need for an architect unless you prefer to work with one. We pride ourselves on collaboratively designing your home with you, and working as a team with the builder to ensure the best overall experience for you.
5. Experience – How much really matters?
Experience matters as much as the life of your home does. The investment of your home and the quality of the construction is paramount to the success of your experience as well as the enjoyment and performance of your home for years to come. Yankee Barn Homes brings you forty five years of experience as an industry leader and a staff of industry professionals with over 150 years of combined experience in post and beam homes. We are here to provide you with the advice you need and the peace of mind you deserve.
Testimonial
“We chose YBH for the quality of the package – structure and insulation better than any other company … YBH made it easier to change design. This experience was a lot easier than we imagined. Building a house 100 miles away could have been scary, but we had a great staff! We were treated very well, welcomed into the YBH Family. Quality of timber frame, insulation, and windows are excellent!” – J.G., New Hampshire
