Owner Care Guide

Fresh-cut timber, naturally.

Cypress, Cedar, and Southern Yellow Pine arrive full of moisture and character. As they dry and acclimate, checking, slight twisting, and grain variation are part of authentic heavy timber construction — not defects.

Fresh-cut heavy timber frame structure
Do

Care for the structure.

  • 01

    Allow the structure time to naturally acclimate and dry after installation.

  • 02

    Expect normal movement in fresh-cut Cypress, Cedar, and Pine timbers, including checking, shrinking, and slight twisting as moisture leaves the wood.

  • 03

    Keep gutters, roofing, and drainage functioning properly to minimize standing water and excessive moisture exposure.

  • 04

    Reapply stain and sealant as part of routine exterior maintenance based on sun exposure and weather conditions.

  • 05

    Keep vegetation, mulch, and soil away from posts and lower framing members whenever possible.

  • 06

    Periodically inspect bolts, fasteners, decorative hardware, roofing, and connections as part of standard ownership maintenance.

  • 07

    Understand that every timber frame structure develops its own natural character over time due to weather, sun exposure, and wood grain variation.

  • 08

    Contact us if you have questions regarding normal timber movement or maintenance recommendations.

Do Not

Avoid these mistakes.

  • ×

    Do not expect fresh-cut or heavy timber lumber to remain perfectly uniform, smooth, or crack-free over time.

  • ×

    Do not fill, caulk, or attempt to seal natural wood checks unless specifically recommended by a professional.

  • ×

    Do not paint over semi-transparent stained timbers without proper preparation and compatibility testing.

  • ×

    Do not trap moisture against timbers with plastic wraps, non-breathable coverings, soil buildup, or standing water.

  • ×

    Do not pressure wash timbers aggressively, as this can damage wood fibers and stain finishes.

  • ×

    Do not use harsh chemical cleaners, bleach mixtures, or abrasive products on stained wood surfaces.

  • ×

    Do not assume surface checking or minor movement indicates structural failure. Heavy timber framing is designed to accommodate natural wood movement.

  • ×

    Do not modify, cut, drill, or remove structural post and beam components without consulting a qualified professional.

Understanding Fresh-Cut Timber

Character, not defect.

Fresh-cut Cypress, Cedar, and Pine contain natural moisture when fabricated and installed. As the timbers dry and acclimate to your environment, visible changes are expected and are part of authentic timber frame construction.

Natural checking, knots, grain variation, and movement are normal characteristics that add to the appearance and uniqueness of the structure rather than detract from it.

Natural checking, color variation, and seasonal movement are normal for heavy timber. See our Warranty, Terms & Disclaimers for the full natural-wood and finish disclaimers.
Next Step

Plan a structure that outlives you.

Tell us about your site. We'll come back with a preliminary kit scope and budget within one business day.

  • 01Cypress, Cedar, or Southern Yellow Pine — pre-cut & pre-fit
  • 02In-house steel connector plates (powder coat or DTM)
  • 03Palletized & freight-shipped nationwide
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