Question 1

What is included in a NORWEH timber frame kit?

Accepted Answer

Understanding exactly what arrives on your freight pallet — and what you'll need to source separately — is essential for budgeting and planning your project. Here's a complete breakdown.

What IS included in every NORWEH kit

Structural timber components:

Posts: All vertical posts, pre-cut to the specified height for your configuration; mortise pockets pre-cut on HT models
Support beams: Horizontal perimeter beams that connect the posts; tenons pre-cut on HT models for mortise and tenon assembly
Rafters: All roof rafters, pre-cut with bird's mouth notches where they seat on the beams — no field cutting required
Ridge beam (where applicable): The central structural ridge member for gable roof configurations
Purlins and blocking: All secondary structural members as required by the configuration

Roof deck:

2x6 tongue-and-groove Douglas Fir roof deck boards: These form the solid surface of the roof; they ship as full lengths and are trimmed to fit on site with a circular saw — a straightforward step any DIYer can handle

Finish:

CUTEK penetrating oil stain: Applied to all structural timber members at the factory in your chosen colour (Walnut or Black Ash); the wood arrives ready to install — no sanding or field finishing required on pre-stained members. See the note on roof deck boards below

Hardware:

All structural bolts, lag screws, joist hangers, and mechanical connectors required for kit assembly
Hardware is organized and labeled in the kit — itemized against the assembly manual's hardware schedule

Documentation:

Full printed assembly manual with numbered component references, illustrated step-by-step instructions, hardware schedule, and foundation guidance
Digital copy also available — downloadable at norweh.com; a sample manual is available to review before purchase

What is NOT included (customer-sourced)

Roofing material: The most important item to budget for separately. The kit includes the structural T&G roof deck, but the weatherproof surface layer is not included — customers source this locally to match their home's existing roof or personal preference. Popular options:

Architectural asphalt shingles — the most economical and widely available option; matches most homes
Standing seam metal roofing — premium durability and aesthetic; recommended for coastal, high-UV, and high-snow environments
Exposed fastener metal panels — cost-effective metal option with a more casual aesthetic

Post base brackets: The hardware that anchors each post to its concrete footing or deck surface. NORWEH recommends OZCO post base brackets — available at major hardware stores and online. These elevate the timber post above the concrete surface, preventing direct wood-to-concrete contact and extending post longevity significantly.

Privacy walls (optional add-on): Matching Douglas Fir privacy panels are available as a separate add-on at time of purchase or retroactively. They are not included in the standard kit.

Concrete or helical pile footings: Site-installed by the customer or a local contractor before kit assembly begins.

Electrical components: All wiring, conduit, fixtures, outlets, and fans are sourced and installed by the customer's licensed electrician.

Roofing underlayment and flashing: Installed by your local roofer as part of the roofing material application.

Questions about a specific configuration's included components? Call +1 (866) 610-0610 or email hello@norweh.com — our team can confirm the exact component list for any size and model before you order.

Question 2

Do NORWEH timber frame kits arrive pre-cut and pre-stained?

Accepted Answer

One of the most important things that sets NORWEH apart from sourcing timber locally and building from scratch is the factory precision built into every component before it leaves our facility. Here's exactly what 'pre-cut and pre-stained' means in practice.

Pre-cut: precision from the factory

Every structural timber — posts, beams, rafters, ridge beam, purlins — arrives cut to the exact dimension required for your chosen configuration. There is no field measuring or cutting of structural members
Mortise pockets (HT model): All mortise cavities are precision-cut by CNC equipment at the factory, ensuring that every tenon seats correctly and the frame goes together square without shimming or gap-filling
Bird's mouth notches on rafters: Pre-cut at the factory so rafters seat directly on the support beam without any field marking or cutting
All holes pre-drilled: Bolt holes through beams and posts are factory-drilled to alignment; you simply insert the hardware and tighten

The one on-site cut: The 2x6 tongue-and-groove roof deck boards ship as full lengths and are trimmed to fit as they're installed across the rafters. This is a straightforward cross-cut that any person with a circular saw and a speed square can make — it is deliberately the only cut required in the entire assembly process.

Pre-numbered: no guesswork during assembly

Every component is stamped or marked with a number that corresponds directly to a position in the assembly manual
Before beginning assembly, lay out all components and verify against the numbered packing list — this takes 20–30 minutes and ensures nothing is missing before you start building
During assembly, you always know exactly where each piece goes — there is no 'which beam is this?' moment

Pre-stained with CUTEK: factory protection from day one
All structural timber members are finished at the factory with CUTEK penetrating oil stain in your chosen colour — Walnut or Black Ash.

What CUTEK is: A premium penetrating oil system, not a surface coating. CUTEK is drawn into the wood fiber via capillary action, stabilizing the wood from within. It does not sit on the surface as a film
Why penetrating oil outperforms surface stains for outdoor timber: Surface film coatings (paints, varnishes, solid stains) crack as timber expands and contracts seasonally — once cracked, they trap moisture against the wood, accelerating decay. CUTEK moves with the wood and cannot crack because there is no surface film to crack
No field finishing required: Open the pallet and begin building. No sanding, priming, or coating step before assembly
Roof deck boards: The T&G roof deck boards are not pre-stained — apply a penetrating oil stain to the exposed underside visible from below the roof deck after installation, before the roofing material is applied

What this means for your build experience
The factory precision of NORWEH's pre-cut, pre-numbered, pre-stained components is what makes a 1–2 day DIY assembly timeline realistic. You spend your time building — not measuring, marking, cutting, or finishing. Open the pallet, follow the numbered sequence in the manual, and watch a timber frame pavilion take shape.

Download a sample assembly manual at norweh.com to see exactly how the numbered system works before you order.

Question 3

How does the NORWEH 3D designer tool work?

Accepted Answer

NORWEH's online 3D designer is one of the most useful tools in the timber frame kit buying process — it lets you see exactly what your chosen structure will look like before committing to a purchase.What you can do in the 3D designer:Select your model – LT, HT, Pergola, or CustomChoose your size – select from available width and depth combinations for your chosen modelSelect your roof style – 2-Gable, 3-Gable, Hip, or Double Hip (for HT); visualize how each looks in real timeChoose your finish color – see your structure in NORWEH's available CUTEK stain tones (walnut, black ash, natural)Rotate and zoom – examine the 3D model from any angle; see how the roof overhang and rafter tails look from different perspectivesHow to access it:Visit design.norweh.com directly, or find the link at norweh.comThe tool works on desktop and mobile browsers — no app download requiredAfter designing:Screenshot or save your design configurationReference your configuration choices when placing your order at norweh.comOr call +1 (866) 610-0610 and give our team your configuration details — they can confirm pricing and availabilityThe 3D designer is the fastest way to get from 'I'm interested' to 'I know exactly what I want' — and it's completely free to use.

Question 4

Can I add privacy walls to my NORWEH outdoor pavilion after assembly?

Accepted Answer

Privacy walls are one of the most popular upgrades for NORWEH pavilion owners, and the good news is that they can be added either at the time of kit purchase or retroactively after the structure is already built.NORWEH's privacy wall option:Constructed from the same Grade No. 1 Douglas Fir as the pavilion kit itself — matches perfectly in material, grain, and finish toneAvailable in the same sizes as the pavilion bays — custom-fit for each post-to-post spanCan be installed on one, two, or three sides of the pavilion — full enclosure is also possibleFinished with CUTEK stain to match the pavilion timberBenefits of adding privacy walls:Blocks prevailing winds — particularly valuable in exposed backyards or coastal propertiesCreates visual privacy from neighbors or adjacent streetsAdds a cozier, room-like atmosphere to the pavilion interiorReduces noise from nearby roads or neighborsProvides an additional surface for mounting lighting, speakers, or outdoor TVsDesign considerations:Adding walls on all four sides significantly changes the structure's classification in some jurisdictions — it may no longer be classified as an open structure; check local codesLeave at least one side fully open if using a fire pit inside the pavilion — ventilation is criticalPrivacy walls add weight to the structure — ensure footings are correctly sized if you're adding walls after initial installationOrder privacy walls at norweh.com or call +1 (866) 610-0610.

Question 5

What finish colors are available for NORWEH timber frame kits?

Accepted Answer

NORWEH offers finished color options to help your pavilion or pergola complement your home's exterior and outdoor aesthetic — so you're not limited to bare natural wood.Available finish options:Natural Douglas Fir – the warm, honey-toned natural color of the wood; ages to a beautiful silver-grey patina over time if left unsealedWalnut – a rich, deep brown tone that adds warmth and sophistication; pairs beautifully with brick, stone, and dark exterior homesBlack Ash – a bold, contemporary dark finish; striking against light-colored homes, modern landscaping, and poolsFinish availability may vary by model and size. If you have a specific color requirement not listed, the NORWEH Custom option allows for additional flexibility.Browse finish options side by side on the product pages at norweh.com, or contact our team at +1 (866) 610-0610 to request finish samples or additional guidance.

Question 6

Can a NORWEH pavilion be attached to my house?

Accepted Answer

Standard NORWEH pavilion kits are designed and engineered as freestanding structures — meaning they stand independently on their own posts and foundation without attaching to your home.Freestanding advantages:No risk of water intrusion at the point where the structure meets your home's exteriorMore placement flexibility — position it anywhere in your yardSimpler permitting in most jurisdictionsNo impact on your home's existing warranty or weatherproofingIf you need an attached structure:The NORWEH Custom option can be engineered for attachment scenariosAttached structures require a ledger board connection to your home's framing, which must be structurally assessedAdditional permitting and engineering review is typically required for attached structures in most US municipalitiesContact our team at +1 (866) 610-0610 or visit norweh.com/product/norweh-custom to discuss an attached configuration for your specific home and lot.

Question 7

What is mortise and tenon joinery and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

Mortise and tenon joinery is the defining feature of traditional timber frame construction — and a key reason why timber frame structures have stood for centuries. It's what separates the NORWEH Pavilion HT from lesser outdoor structures.How it works:A tenon — a precisely shaped projection — is cut at the end of one timber beamA mortise — a matching rectangular recess — is cut into the receiving timberThe tenon slots tightly into the mortise, creating a mechanical connection that resists racking, twisting, and separationTraditional timber frames use wooden pegs (treenails) to lock the joint — NORWEH uses modern structural fasteners for code-compliant performanceWhy it matters for your pavilion:Exceptional structural integrity – the joint becomes stronger under load over timeAuthentic aesthetic – exposed joinery is a visual hallmark of fine timber craftsmanshipLongevity – mortise and tenon structures routinely last 100+ years in historical applicationsNo visible bolt hardware – a cleaner, more refined appearance than bolt-connected alternativesThe Pavilion HT's mortise and tenon construction is a primary reason it's NORWEH's most popular and most-reviewed model.

Question 8

What roof styles are available for NORWEH timber frame pavilions?

Accepted Answer

The roof style is one of the most visually defining choices for your timber frame pavilion. NORWEH offers several roof configurations depending on which model you select.Available roof styles:Single Gable – a classic peaked roof with one ridge running the length of the structure; clean, traditional look that sheds rain efficientlyDouble Gable – two parallel peaks for larger structures; adds architectural complexity and visual dramaHip Roof – all four sides slope downward toward the walls; extremely stable in high-wind areas and provides excellent all-around weather protectionDouble Hip – a premium configuration combining two hip sections; ideal for large or square-footprint structuresRoof style availability varies by model:Pavilion LT – standard roof style optionsPavilion HT – expanded selection including double gable and double hip configurationsNORWEH Custom – any roof style can be accommodated in a fully custom buildBrowse all available configurations at norweh.com or call +1 (866) 610-0610 to discuss which roof style suits your home's architecture and your climate.

Question 9

What is the difference between the Pavilion LT and Pavilion HT?

Accepted Answer

NORWEH offers two timber frame pavilion models designed for different budgets, aesthetics, and complexity preferences. Here's how they compare:NORWEH Timber Frame Pavilion LTStarting from $7,529Classic, timeless designStandard sizes and style optionsBolt connections for straightforward assemblyGreat for first-time builders or tighter budgetsNORWEH Timber Frame Pavilion HTStarting from $11,234Most popular modelExpanded size and style optionsTraditional mortise and tenon joinery — the hallmark of authentic timber frame constructionMore architectural detail and visual impactBird's mouth rafters for a premium finished lookIf you're looking for the most authentic timber frame experience with the widest customization options, the HT is the clear choice. If you want a beautiful, solid structure at a lower entry price, the LT delivers exceptional value.

Question 10

What is the difference between a pavilion and a pergola?

Accepted Answer

Choosing between a pavilion and a pergola comes down to how much coverage and protection you want from your outdoor structure.Timber Frame PavilionFully enclosed solid roof deckComplete protection from rain and direct sunIdeal for outdoor kitchens, dining areas, or year-round useCan be finished with metal roofing, shingles, or cedar shakesMore substantial, permanent feelTimber Frame PergolaOpen lattice roof structurePartial shade with open sky visibilityIdeal for growing climbing plants, string lights, or a relaxed garden aestheticEasier to assemble — NORWEH's easiest buildTimeless design that complements any backyard styleBoth structures are built from premium Douglas Fir and ship as complete kits with free shipping to all 48 continental US states. If you're unsure which is right for your space, call our team at +1 (866) 610-0610 for a free consultation.

Question 11

Can I order a custom timber frame pavilion or pergola?

Accepted Answer

If none of NORWEH's standard models fit your space perfectly, the NORWEH Custom option lets you build exactly what you have in mind. Custom orders are ideal for unusually shaped lots, attached structures, large commercial spaces, or homeowners who simply want something unique.What can be customized:Dimensions – width, depth, and height to match your exact footprintRoof style – gable, hip, double hip, or other configurationsFinish and color – walnut, black ash, or natural Douglas Fir tonesStructural joinery – bolt connections or traditional mortise and tenonAdd-ons – screens, lighting integration, and moreTo start a custom build, visit norweh.com/product/norweh-custom or call +1 (866) 610-0610 to speak with one of our timber frame specialists.

Question 12

What is a timber frame pavilion kit?

Accepted Answer

A timber frame pavilion kit is a complete, pre-engineered outdoor structure that arrives at your home ready to assemble. Unlike custom-built structures that require hiring a contractor and waiting months, NORWEH timber frame kits include every component pre-cut and labeled — so you can build a stunning, permanent backyard pavilion without the hassle.What's included in a NORWEH pavilion kit:Premium Douglas Fir timber – sustainably sourced, kiln-dried, and naturally weather-resistantPre-cut beams and rafters – every piece cut to precise dimensions at the factoryFull roof deck – ready to finish with metal, shingle, or any roofing material of your choiceHardware and fasteners – everything needed for a complete structural assemblyStep-by-step instructions – clear, illustrated build guides designed for confident DIYersNORWEH offers two pavilion models — the Pavilion LT (starting from $7,529) with bolt connections, and the Pavilion HT (starting from $11,234) with traditional mortise and tenon joinery — as well as a Timber Frame Pergola and fully custom builds.

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