New House Old Soul
S1E4 From Timber to Engineered: How Framing Shapes a House
Season 1, Episode 4
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19m
Brent Hull examines the evolution of residential framing—from early timber construction and balloon framing to the engineered systems used in modern homes. The episode explains how traditional timber framing relied on large sections and joinery to create durable structures, while balloon framing emerged to meet the demands of rapid expansion and migration. Brent explores the shortcomings of certain historical methods and why engineered materials are now favored for precision and efficiency. By understanding how framing systems have changed, builders and designers can make informed choices that respect architectural intent while meeting modern performance standards—ensuring that the structure itself contributes to a home’s lasting story.
Up Next in Season 1
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S1E5 From Gaslight to Edison: How Ele...
Brent Hull traces the evolution of residential lighting from 19th-century gas lamps to early electrical systems and the lasting impact those transitions have on how houses are built today. The episode explores the rivalry between AC and DC power, changes in wiring methods, and why understanding t...
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S1E6 Flowing Through History: How Plu...
Brent Hull traces the evolution of residential plumbing, from outdoor privies and early indoor fixtures to the fully integrated systems found in modern homes. The episode examines how bathroom design and materials shifted from the 1920s through the 1950s, reflecting changing attitudes toward hygi...
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S1E7 Roofs That Tell a Story: Proport...
Brent Hull explores how roofs and dormers quietly define the character and credibility of American residential architecture. From early wood-shingled roofs used by settlers to modern advances like faux slate and fire-rated wood shingles, the episode traces how materials have evolved without chang...
