A few months ago we raised an eastern white pine frame for a customer who was very concerned with maintaining the "fresh, clean" appearance of the new timber. All was well until they had an argument with one of their contractor's trades. They believe he returned one night to take out his frustration on their almost finished home. Using a hatchet he took a swing or two at most of the posts on the first floor. Damage consists of cuts on one or more faces of a post, many cuts are across a corner, so involve two sides and in a couple cases the cuts "blew out" a chunk. None of the damage is deeper than 1-1/2" so there is no structural concern.

The customer wants our input on repairs that would return their frame to "good as new" condition. Insurance companies are involved and the customer is adamant that no cost be spared in setting the problem right. Post replacement is not a likely option given the fact that the building is virtually finished. What do you suggest? What are your experiences with aesthetically pleasing patches into timber that is still mostly unseasoned? How would you respond to a hurting customer with high (unrealistic?) expectations?