The Frame Raising

Knock, Knock, Knock

Tap, Tap, Tap

Clink, clink, clink as the sawn off oak pegs strike the ground.

The Gentleman Carpenters from Carpenter Oak are on site. Progress is rapid and a wonderful litter of oak posts and trusses fills the ground. Onlookers are amazed as the massive timbers are craned into place. The house comes to life as more and more of the frame takes shape. Thanks to Mr Webb’s dedication and hard work the foundations are perfect. Incredible that the setting out had been achieved to this accuracy with just tape and string.

A problem though was heading our way. As the warm glow of the summer sun faded on the first day the winds began to rise. Storm braces were fixed to the partially raised frame and as the night drew in the wind began to howl. The wind and rain battered the site throughout the night but the frame stood fast and still.

The second day was inclement the wind remained high and the rain continued to fall. Doing what they could the carpenters assembled the trusses and cross frames on the ground. The plot turned into a sticky clay bog but by the end of the day much had been achieved. As they packed up their tools the sun finally returned and the oak and the ground began to dry.

Day three was quicker still by midday the last piece of the frame was being lifted into place. Oak pegs, levelling and fixing followed. Six in the evening and nearly everything was done. The team sat down to a, well earned, BBQ and rest.

As golden evening light fell on the wonderful oak frame we all remembered the job was not yet done.

Two final oak pegs knock in!

With the pegs in my hand the carpenters watched on:

Knock, Knock, Knock

Tap, Tap, Tap

Clink, Clink, Clink

… and then the oak frame was done.