FAQ. About Our Product Line:

Q. What are the overall dimensions of the Arbor and Gazebo?

The Arbor hs a 4' by 6' footprint. The Gazebo has a footprint of 10' by 12' with generous 1.5' overhangs at the eaves and gables.

Q. Does the frame come pre-finished?

Our kits come pre-finished with Cabot's Australian Timber Oil, a specially formulated natural penetrating oil designed to protect outdoor structures and furniture. Cabot Australian Timber Oil is available through Brown and Roberts Hardware in Brattleboro, and should be re-applied once a year to protect the frame's original wood color. If you woudl like, you may custom order your frame without a finish, or with a different finish of your choice.

Q. What can I expect when I order my kit?

When you order an Arbor, it will arrive pre-assembled, unless you specifically request otherwise. The truck is equipped with a small boom forklift, which will allow the driver to position the Arbor or pre-assembled sections wherever it is most convenient to you. In some cases he may be able to drive through your yard, and position the Arbor or pre-assembled sections exactly where you want them in your garden. This depends entirely on the terrain. Please note that the forklift will leave tracks (due to its weight) on your lawn! If you order your frame partially assembled (Gazebos cannot be ordered fully assembled due to size), you will also receive a box containing easy to follow directions for final assembly, a bundle of oak pegs, and a wooden mallet. Gazebo kits also come with a very large wooden mallet known as a "commander" used to assemble the frame. We also offer raising services at the rate of $30/hr/person.

Q. Can I assemble the Arbor or Gazebo myself?

We recommend a minimum of 4-6 strong, capable people to assemble your Arbor, and a minimum crew of 8-10 to assemble the Gazebo. If you have no previous construction experience, we urge you to hire an experienced builder to lead your crew in assembling either frame (or you can hire us to assemble the frame, at the rate of $30/hr/person). Please call or email us if you have any questions, and we'll be happy to consult on the best approach for your particular site or building. Phone consultations are free, adn you can reach us by phone, 7 days a week. Our number is 802-380-3200.

Q. Does the Gazebo frame come with a roof?

The Gazebo frame includes the structural roofing members (rafter pairs and collar ties) but does not include roof sheathing or roofing to finish the structure. This allows you the flexibility to choose a roofing material which complements your landscape and other buildings. The rafters are spaced to support 1.5" tongue and groove sheathing. We recommend you roof your frame with durable and attractive cedar shingles, slate, or standing seam metal.

Q. Can we hire you to put a roof on our Gazebo frame?

Yes you can! Please call or email us for availability, and to discuss your various roofing options. We charge $30/hr/person for roofing services.

Q. Can I order a cusom frame?

Certainly! We design and build custom frames in practically any style and species to suit your needs. Please click on our link to learn more about our Custom Framing services.

Q. What are the properties of Hemlock, and how does it compare to other species?

Hemlock is a softwood, light brown in color, which tans to a richer brown when exposed to the sun. It is widely available in our area, and was the preferred lumber of timber-framers and builders in our area until the early 1900s. Most local timber framers prefer Hemlock to White Pine (its softwood alternative) because it is harder, stronger, and more rot resistant than White Pine. Hemlock does check and twist more than pine, which is why it lost its popularity in the later 1900s when carpenters started using smaller, commercially milled dimensional lumber.

Q. I'd like to order my frame in a different species. What is the cost and lead time?

We cut custom frames in any locally available hard or softwood. Give us a call or email us for a quote. The price will vary depending on the material you choose, and so will lead time. You can expect a wait of 30-60 days, depending on the size of the frame, and the availability of the material.

Q. I woudl like more information. How do I contact you?

We'd love to hear from you! You can call us at 802-380-3200, or email us at info@thetimberframeshop.com for more information on any of our products and services.