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Is
this experimental archeology, or simply learning from the past how to
make best use of natural materials?
This
photograph shows an old Y-post which supported an Elm wall plate, that
in turn
supported roundwood rafters of a 19th century cart lodge at Orchard Barn
The
natural crook in the tree has been used to best advantage. Elm
used 'in the round' is much stronger than milled timber, less
energy use too.
Inspired
by this simple but effective vernacular approach to building we have
been
looking at local trees with a fresh pair of eyes. Could we find any Elm
trees big enough to build with?
We're
delighted to report that we found some! To date we've
been given the Elm trees, and Orchard Barn Volunteers and Trainess
have converted the trees into new Y-posts and roof rafters. Next step
is making and fitting the shingle roof from Sweet Chestnut logs.
Once the roof is complete we will use this new cartlodge as our rural craft room, however the tannins in this type of wood will corrode ordinary metals!
We need to raise £372.90 to buy stainless steel nails so we can attach shingles and rafters to the elm rafters. Please add your name to the cart lodge roof fund by donating now.
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