Back inside the barn.

The last task prior to the upper floor installation was to frame off the stairwell. For this I installed a 4X10 header, supported by a post on one end and the ledger/joist at the other. I also added a center post, which seemed more aesthetically pleasing and will provide a sturdy attachment point for the future stair railing. The floor joists were notched and set into the mortised header. I used a housed mortise where the header met the post for additional strength. It also looks cool! A pair of angle iron pieces (dug out of a friend's pile of scrap iron) and some huge bolts connect the header to the wall- the only mechanical fasteners used in the timber joinery. finally, ready to put in a floor...