Post and beam uses heavy timbers of 15×15 cm and larger. The Amish build entire frames by hand.
Difference from Stick Framing
Modern framing: many thin 5×10 cm boards. Amish framing: few thick posts and beams with large spans. A single post weighs 50–100 kg.
Process
Logs are squared with an axe. Mortises and tenons cut at every joint. Sections assembled on ground, fit-checked. On raising day, the community lifts completed sections.
Joints
Wood-to-wood only: mortise-tenon, scarf joints, through-pegs. No nails, bolts, or metal plates. Each joint bears tons of load.
Why It's Better
Heavy timber burns slowly — chars outside, core intact. Thin boards burn through. In a fire, Amish framing survives. Plus: no hidden cavities for mice and mold.