An investigation of construction systems of vernacular timber structures in Turkey

Abstract

Vernacular construction systems that are used extensively in Anatolia for centuries were neglected with the development of modern construction systems. Vernacular timber structures constructed without any engineering assistance and connection to any regulation, built entirely with local materials, demonstrate knowledge and experience of craftsmen who built these structures about use of materials, earthquake and soil characteristics. Revealing the heritage of this mastership, that is almost forgotten for this knowledge was not transferred in written sources, will both enlighten the structure history and be a source of inspiration for modern construction systems. Vernacular timber structures are generally described related to construction techniques of their outer walls. Basically, techniques to build timbers walls can be separated two parts: I) Block Timber Walls, II) Timber Framed Walls. Under these main tittles there are many sub-tittles which named different locally. By usage preference of main material (timber) or infill materials (stone, kerpiç, brick) makes differences on construction systems. In this paper, construction systems of these traditional timbers in Turkey will be introduced systematically.