
Classic Form. Practical Size. Ready-to-Raise™ Simplicity.
The 12x16 Saltbox Timber Frame delivers traditional charm and practical design in an approachable, budget-friendly build. Its asymmetrical saltbox roof—a hallmark of colonial architecture—offers not just visual appeal but also versatile interior height, making this frame perfect for a variety of uses.
Key Features:
- Footprint: 12' x 16' (192 sq ft between the posts)
- Roof Pitch: 10:12 with a peak height of 16'-2"
- Overhangs: 2-foot overhangs on plate ends for added weather protection
- Materials:
- Common Rafters & Braces: 4x6 lumber
- Posts & Principal Rafters: 6x6
- Girts, Ridges & Top Plates: 6x10 timbers
- Board Footage: Requires approximately 1,084 board feet of lumber
This frame’s common truss design simplifies both cutting and raising while keeping the structure clean and functional. The use of standard 4x and 6x timbers makes sourcing materials easy and cost-effective.
Endless Possibilities:
- Workshop
- Gardener’s Shed
- Children’s Playhouse
- Studio or Backyard Office
- Compact Cabin or Retreat
The saltbox form creates varied ceiling heights, offering both cozy nooks and spacious headroom where you need it. The simple frame also allows for flexible cladding and window placement to suit your exact needs.
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This plan provides detailed, easy-to-follow blueprints, perfect for anyone building their own timber frame.
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Do you like this plan but need to change it a little, or do you want a complete Ready-To-Raise Kit?
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What's Included

We take immense pride in our team of exceptionally skilled timber frame designers. Each member is not only equipped with the finest tools but also possesses a profound understanding of how different materials intricately come together to realize your vision. This deep expertise in both design and material synergy is crucial in crafting the ideal timber frame structure tailored just for you.
Our commitment to excellence extends to our engineering team, specialists in timber frame structures, many of whom hold doctorates in their field. Sharing your passion for timber framing, our engineers work closely with you, ensuring that every aspect of the frame's design is customized to suit your specific location. This collaborative process guarantees that you receive all necessary documentation for permits, including detailed engineered reaction diagrams, ensuring your construction proceeds smoothly and stays on schedule.
The culmination of this meticulous process is a comprehensive set of construction drawings. These detailed plans not only provide a clear guide for your kit's assembly but also include a complete list of timbers and fasteners, serving as an invaluable reference throughout the installation of your frame. Our goal is to ensure that every step, from initial design to final construction, is seamless, transparent, and perfectly aligned with your project's needs.
After we've collaboratively chosen the ideal wood type for your project, we proceed to source the highest quality timber through our network of trusted mills. Ensuring that every piece meets our exacting standards, we then transport the timber to one of our cutting facilities. There, the joinery is meticulously crafted using CNC machines. Every joint, drilling, mortise, and tenon is cut with precision, adhering to tight tolerances for impeccable quality and fit.
Following the cutting process, all timbers are systematically labeled according to the production numbers assigned during the creation of your model and plans. This meticulous process ensures that every component of your timber frame is prepared with the utmost attention to detail, ready for the next phase of your project.
Included with your package are all the pegs, fasteners, screws, and connectors you need to put your ready-to-raise frame together. You will also get a detailed list for you to refer to while raising your frame.
We carefully package and securely transport your timber frame and all necessary hardware directly to your location. In sync with you, we'll coordinate the delivery schedule, ensuring that we agree on an approximate time on the designated date. To facilitate a smooth and safe unloading process, it's important to have equipment on hand capable of lifting up to 5,000 lbs. Once everything is delivered and in place, the exciting phase of bringing your project to life begins.

At Timber Frame HQ, we embrace the philosophy of 'One Person, One Project.' This approach ensures that each client is paired with a dedicated Project Manager who will be your point of contact throughout the entire project. We believe in offering personalized, consistent support to make your journey with us as smooth and fulfilling as possible.
Our commitment extends beyond just providing exceptional timber frames. As your construction resource, we'll be by your side for the duration of your project, ready to offer expert advice, support, and answers to all your queries. Our goal is to make the process of raising your timber frame not just successful, but also a deeply rewarding experience.
We invite you to visit our 'About Us' page to learn more about our values, our team, and how we can bring your timber framing vision to life with a touch of personal care and professional excellence.
We understand that every project is unique, so we offer extensive customization options for our plans and kits. Choose from various sizes, roof styles, and finishes to match your style and landscape. Our design team is dedicated to helping you create the perfect plan that reflects your vision.
Here's How You Can Get Started:
- Phone: Call us at 888-552-9379 (9–5, M–F) to speak with one of our experts.
- Email: Send your questions to projects@timberframehq.com, and we will respond within two business days
- Online Form: Please complete the form below, and we will respond promptly.



I’m interested in building some sheds / also I need to make a pole barn/timber frame.
Do you put certain packages together for people?
Yes, you can find out more information on our kits here.
Interested in the 12×16 Saltbox Timber Frame plans. Can you include an attached single carport on the side?
You certainly could- you could start with this Timber Frame Shed Roof Plan
Hello Katrina: How much would it cost to make the salt box plan into a 12’x20’
With no salt box with an post and beam at the 10’ section.
Thanks Rick Fogg
Check out our page, HERE, describing what we offer and the process of our custom design services.
Fill out the design questionnaire so we can understand your needs. That’s the best way to communicate with our team and get an estimate for design services.
As soon as we get your information and give it a quick review we’ll contact you. Please allow a couple of days for our designers to respond.
Are there any photos of this shed completed? Thanks!
Sorry, there are not.
I have 3.5″ x 7.5″ cedar timbers I’d like to repurpose for this shed. Doable? Also, does this have to be built on a concrete slab?
This plan utilizes 4x6s, 6x6s, 6x10s and 6x12s