In the News...
Press Release:
Sweet Timber Frames to Set Exceptional Frame in Sorrento, ME
Mt. Desert, Maine November 5, 2008 -- Premier timber frame manufacturer, Sweet Timber Frames, of Mt. Desert, ME is set to raise an exceptional barn frame on December 11th in Sorrento, ME, just outside Bar Harbor. Situated on an idyllic property high on a cliff overlooking Sullivan Harbor and Mt. Desert Island, Sweet Timber Frames is building two structures – the barn and a house (to be raised in April 2009). These traditionally joined timber frames will showcase the purity of the handcrafted frame - the raising of such a structure will truly be a sight to behold.
John Sweet, owner of Sweet Timber Frames says, “The use of timber framing was essential for this family - the property is breathtaking in every way, and they needed a barn and home to match. We are more than happy to oblige.” The frame that will be erected on November 18th (anticipated to be complete by November 28th) is an impressive two story 36’ x 60’ barn structure, which is built solely from traditional mortise and tenon-joined hemlock frames, and like all Sweet frames, there are no metal supports or nails used whatsoever. Each frame is a unique wooden sculpture composed of large beams that lock together with wooden pegs to form the visible interior. The pegs act as a locking mechanism with the joints of the timbers, so that when the frame of the house is assembled on-site, the only element holding the entire structure together is wood.
In addition to the sheer beauty of the timber frame itself, there are also eco-advantages to this type of construction. The use of natural timbers, as compared to brick, concrete or other fabricated products, considerably reduces the carbon footprint of a home build. Timber frames can also reduce the energy used in heating the home because they provide a high level of insulation. Furthermore, these homeowners have opted for an exceptionally efficient heating system, including a wood gasification boiler by Tarm (www.bioheatusa.com) for both the barn and the main house.
The two story 36’x60’, 4320 square foot barn is being raised first (the frame for the 6480 square foot main house is expected to be raised in April of 2009). On the first floor, this barn structure will have a four-car parking area on the north side, and a living area and kitchen on the south side. The second floor will include all the living space and bedrooms, with ten dustpan dormers upstairs and double windows in each dormer. Both buildings will have a traditional shingle style exterior.
Founded in 1981, Sweet Timber Frames is a family owned and operated company that specializes in handcrafted, sustainable timber frames. The Sweet Timber Frames team is passionate about the challenges and rewards of each frame cut and erected, knowing it’s a truly unique piece of art. To learn more about Sweet Timber Frames, or to attend the December 11th Sorrento, Maine, frame raising, please contact Scott Rouleau at s.rouleau@sbcglobal.net, or at 860-677-0560.
