Lancaster County Timber Frames, Inc.
 

Finding a Timber Framer

When we built Timber Springs in West Friendship, our first major task—after finding the lot—was choosing a timber framer. In 2001, online resources were limited, so we relied on books, timber frame groups, and word of mouth. We explored three companies: one in Westminster, Maryland; one in Oxford, Pennsylvania; and one just outside York.
 

The Westminster company favored rough finishes, which didn’t match our vision. So we headed to Pennsylvania. The Oxford framer gave us a helpful introduction to timber framing and showed us a few projects. But it was our visit to Lancaster County Timber Frames (LCTF) that changed everything. The moment we stepped into their shop, we sensed a higher level of craftsmanship. Co‑owner Tony Zaya’s calm confidence and passion for the craft were immediately clear. When he showed us their chamfered posts and beams, Angie was impressed with the elegance of their craftsmanship. Craig shared his early house sketch, and Tony appreciated its simplicity and generous Great Room. We left knowing LCTF was the right choice.
 

In those days, Tony hand‑drew the plans himself. After a few iterations, we finalized the layout and received the full timber frame design and cost estimate. To stay within budget, Tony suggested timber framing only the central core—an approach that offered both savings and flexibility for utilities. We agreed and signed the contract.
 

Our builder, Carrigan Homes, was enthusiastic but new to enclosing a timber frame. Many calls were exchanged between Owen Carrigan and Tony as they worked through the details. Once the white oak timbers arrived at LCTF, Tony invited us to the shop to see them being shaped. The scale, the scent, and the precision were unforgettable. That day we also met Josh Coleman, the frame designer, who walked us through the bent and wall drawings. A month later, Josh emailed photos of a completed bent laid out for dry‑fitting.
 

By early May, the foundation and subfloor were ready, and the LCTF crew arrived for a three‑day raising. Watching the timbers arrive on a single flatbed—loaded in perfect assembly order—was remarkable. The crew worked with seamless coordination, fitting each piece together like a giant wooden puzzle. At one point, Josh climbed onto a rafter with a mallet to coax two joints into place. Tony joined on the final day, and after photos with the crew perched on the beams, we celebrated with a cake decorated with a timber frame.
 

That experience forged a lasting relationship with Tony, Josh, and the entire LCTF team. So when the chance came to build another timber frame home, there was never a question. We were all excited to begin creating a new hybrid timber frame together. . . this time an Arch Chord Truss design.