Timber framing and Post and Beam framing are often thought to be the same by the average person, but they are really quite different when it comes down to the details. Both techniques leave the trademark look of fully exposed beams on the inside of the structure. The main difference between timber framing vs post and beam framing is the way timbers are connected to each other. Timber framing uses mortise and tenon joinery along with wooden pegs whereas Post and Beam framing uses half-lap joinery with hidden fasteners, and oftentimes metal bracing. So what does mortise and tenon joinery mean? Let’s break it down. The mortise is the side of the wood with the hole in, the tenon is the side with what is called the tongue tenon on it. The tongue tenon is a section of wood that is cut to lock into the mortise side of the joint. After the joint has been put together, it will be glued, pinned, or wedged to lock it in place. It is one of the oldest, longest used joint m...