Fig. 122.—Manner of Framing Large Barns.
[Fig. 122] explains the manner of framing the largest class of barns. Wide openings, like bays, require the use of heavy timber, and the mortice, tenon and brace, only so far as the gallows frame is concerned; the balance of the frame is of light stuff, studding 2 feet to 2½ feet apart, 2 by 6 inches, every third one 2 by 8 inches, into which is gained the side girt, it being nailed to the others. On this rests one end of the temporary floors, the gallows frame supports the roof, and the rafters are secured to it, so that they become ties. The side of this building is like a floor turned on edge, and is firmly secured by the floor joists at the bottom and the rafters at the top.
Warehouses, depots, and other buildings of a very large size, can be made stronger by using the Balloon Frame, instead of the heavy timber frame. Those who prefer to err on the right side, can get unnecessary strength by using deeper studding, placing them closer together, putting in one or more rows of bridging and as many diagonal ribs as they like. In large buildings there is no saving in timber, only the substitution of small sizes for large—the great saving is in the labor, which is quite important.
The following are some of the advantages claimed for the Balloon Frame:
1. The principal labor of framing is dispensed with.
2. It is a far cheaper frame to raise.
3. It is stronger and more durable than any other frame.
4. Any stick can be removed, and another put in its place, without disturbing the strength of those remaining—in fact, the whole building can be renewed stick by stick.
5. It is adapted to every style of building, and better adapted for all irregular forms.
6. It is forty per cent. cheaper than any other known style of frame.