Gusset plates and bolts?
Well, be sure to calculate the diameter of the bolts, vs. the relationship to the strength of the species you plan on using. Then how many bolts? Lots of small ones? Or a few big ones? How close to the end can you get them without compromising the structure? Will they be in single shear or double? How will you control for shrinkage? Will the shrinking wood hang on the bolts? How will you handle wood that is different thicknesses? Pack out the plates with more steel? (ie, a 8x8 post with a 6x8 brace or strut) How thick will the steel be? What grade? Will you fabricate it? Or have someone do it for you? You going to draw up all that steel so they can cut it up and drill it? Have you looked at the cost of steel lately? Blah Blah Blah.
Traditional timber framing is not that difficult and has a pretty low cost to entry for DIY projects if you plan on using hand tools. Can you take a class? Visit a local shop? Attend a workshop? Pick up some other books from the library?
Ask some questions. Lots of helpful folks here.
Last edited by bmike; 01/13/11 08:54 PM.
