Definition

A bressumer is a substantial horizontal beam that carries structural loads across a wide opening. In traditional timber framing, it may support an upper-story wall, floor framing, a jettied wall, or construction above a large fireplace opening.

Explanation

Bressumers are commonly found in older timber-framed buildings where a large opening interrupts the supporting wall below. The beam transfers the weight of the framing or wall above to supporting posts, walls, or other structural members at each end.

The term has several recognized spellings, including bressummer and breastsummer. Depending on the building and its location, a bressumer may function much like a large lintel or girder. In traditional jettied construction, the bressumer can form the horizontal support beneath an upper story that projects beyond the wall below.

Why It Matters

Because a bressumer may support a substantial portion of the structure above an opening, deterioration, excessive deflection, alteration, or inadequate support can affect the surrounding framing. Older bressumers may also be concealed by finishes or incorporated into historic construction that has been modified over time.

Example Usage

I observed a large timber bressumer spanning the opening and supporting the wall framing above. The visible portions of the beam should be considered when evaluating alterations or deterioration in this area.