Custom Timber Framing
Creating Unique Timber Frame Structures
Our custom timber framing services are tailored to meet your specific needs. From initial design to final construction, we work closely with you to create a structure or accent that is both beautiful and functional. We direct source and custom make every timber frame component so they stand the test of time and fit together perfectly. Every project is unique and we love working with you to create something extra special.
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What Our Clients are Saying
David Kerstetter2025-02-27Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Job well done. Asked multiple times if everything was ok, if not they would fix issue. We did not have any problems! Did a great job. Gemma Phillips2025-02-12Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Daniel and his crew were wonderful! They did an excellent job replacing our existing deck, screen and railing. We would highly recommend them. Daniel was professional and knowledgeable. His estimate was reasonable. He and his crew always arrived on time, and were courteous. Charles Gallup2025-01-11Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Daniel and his team did an incredible job tearing down our old garage and rebuilding a new one! Very meticulous, professional and very hard workers. We highly recommend them for all your construction needs!!! Art White2024-05-28Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had two decks that started to come apart due to poor workmanship. MHI came to my rescue. They disassembled the decks and rebuilt the the base correctly, then they reused the decking giving me a break in the cost. In three days they completed the job. Their workmanship was excellent. I highly recommend this company. They are knowledgeable and skilled workman. Thanks guys, we hope you have a safe and profitable summer. Had Daniel back this summer and he rebuilt the steps between the two decks he built last summer. Again very skills professionals you can count on for quality work done on time with care. Thank you gentleman, excellent job! Samuel Wengerd2024-03-27Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Nice work! Would recommend Daniel and his crew Alice Raudenbush2023-11-07Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Daniel Esh is true to his word. Arrived when he said he would and did a superb job. He is very professional and very concerned about his work being done correctly. He completed the work in the time quoted. We will definitely recommend Dan at Mountainside Home Improvements LLC to our family and friends. Karen KinKade2023-07-28Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Daniel was a pleasure to work with. He did a basement and bathroom remodel for us. He was professional, responsive, punctual, and neat. Most importantly, he did a beautiful job. He takes pride in his work and made sure we were happy with the job. We will definitely be using his company again for future projects. Frank Torres2023-07-12Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mountainside Home improvements was incredible to work with from the beginning to the end. Daniel was great with ideas and planning, and very up front with his quotes. He had a great worker, Matt, who was a great match to Daniel to work with. His scheduling and work were very professional, always meticulous with all his work, had the work done on time and was very courteous throughout the entire process. I cannot say enough to how enjoyable working with him was, and we now plan on doing more work throughout our home with Mountainside Home Improvements. I HIGHLY recommend Mountainside Home Improvements to everyone!! We will continue to use them for all of our projects in our house, you just can’t get any better than these guys!! A++++ work!! Phenomenal and professional service!! Mark Ilgenfritz2023-04-10Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Has a good attitude about his work. Is it easy to work with and is conscientious about his craftsmanship. He’s currently working by himself, but if the projects are not too large, he seems to be very capable to handle them.Load moreVerified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
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The History of
Mortise and Tenon
Discover the history and craftsmanship behind mortise and tenon timber frame construction, a method that ensures durability and aesthetic appeal.
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The history of mortise and tenon timber frame construction dates back thousands of years and spans multiple continents. This ancient joinery technique, characterized by fitting a tenon (a projecting piece of wood) into a mortise (a corresponding cavity), has been a cornerstone of woodworking and construction across various cultures.
The origins of mortise and tenon joints can be traced back to Biblical times, with some of the earliest evidence found in ancient structures like Stonehenge, dating to around 2600-2400 B.C. These joints were also prevalent in early Asian constructions, where they were used extensively in Chinese and Japanese temples around the 6th to 8th centuries A.D. Notably, the Forbidden City in Beijing showcases some of the most sophisticated mortise and tenon joinery in its timber frameworks.
In Europe, the technique gained prominence during the Middle Ages, particularly in the construction of large timber-framed buildings. By the 9th and 10th centuries, Europeans had developed advanced timber framing skills, using mortise and tenon joints to construct durable and complex structures. Examples of such constructions can be seen in the timber-framed buildings of medieval England and continental Europe, including notable structures like Westminster Abbey and the Winchester Cathedral.
The method crossed the Atlantic with early settlers and became integral to building practices in colonial America from the 1600s to the mid-1800s. The abundant forests provided ample resources for timber framing, which was used to build everything from simple homes to large public buildings. However, the industrial revolution and the advent of cheaper, faster construction methods, such as balloon framing, led to a decline in the use of traditional mortise and tenon joinery.
Despite its decline in mainstream construction, mortise and tenon joinery has experienced a resurgence in recent decades, particularly among enthusiasts of traditional woodworking and sustainable architecture. The Arts and Crafts movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which emphasized craftsmanship and quality materials, played a significant role in reviving interest in this ancient technique. Today, mortise and tenon joints are celebrated for their aesthetic appeal and structural integrity, frequently used in bespoke furniture making, historical restorations, and modern timber frame homes.
The mortise and tenon joint is a testament to the enduring legacy of traditional woodworking techniques. Its ability to provide strong, durable, and aesthetically pleasing connections has ensured its continued relevance from ancient times to the present day.




