Post and beam framing is a style of construction often found in rustic type of housing or exotic homes. This style of framing lends itself to large open areas. Posts are the upright timbers used to support the roofing system and form the exterior walls. Beams are horizontal timbers used to tie the structure together and support live loads. Post and beam framing is also often referred to as timber frame construction. This type of dwelling is more complex in design because the joining of each post and beam is a crucial element to the structural stability of the building. Most of the timbers are exposed which will enable your inspector to carefully check many of these areas with his well trained eyes.