Erecting the structure

Once all the trusses are ready, they can be lifted into place. During this erecting process, the trusses are placed upright and connected to each other. The larger the truss, the harder the hoisting becomes and the more muscle power is required. Sheer legs can be used to lift the heavy trusses and connecting beams. Block and tackle pulleys can also provide assistance.


A sledgehammer is used to put the various parts in place and to close the timber joints. Ropes or modern tension straps are used to pull parts together and temporarily secure them. A lifting jack or other type of lifting device is also used, especially when repairing half-timbered structures.

Video:  We build a nativity scene - 8. Erecting the structure

Video: Erecting the Winnowing barn

Sheer legs at the Tommenmolen

Use of sheer legs and capstan when erecting trusses - © Openluchtmuseum Bokrijk, 1955 – 1965

Pegs

The wood joints are pulled together and fixed with draw bore pins or the pins are replaced with wooden pegs to hold the joints in place.

video: We build a nativity scene - 7. making pegs

Cutting a peg with a draw knive 

Drilling peg holes during the timber framing internship

Finished pegs on a shaving horse

Pegs fixed in a scarf joint