tie beam

American  

noun

1. a horizontal timber or the like for connecting two structural members to keep them from spreading apart, as a beam connecting the feet of two principal rafters in a roof truss.

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tie beam British  

noun

1. a horizontal beam that serves to prevent two other structural members from separating, esp one that connects two corresponding rafters in a roof or roof truss

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Etymology

Origin of tie beam

First recorded in 1815–25

Example Sentences

In fact the tie beam itself was the feature on which the architect depended to make the greatest effect by elaborating it.

From Carpentry for Boys In a Simple Language, Including Chapters on Drawing, Laying Out Work, Designing and Architecture With 250 Original Illustrations by Zerbe, James Slough

A, B, tie beam; C, C, queen posts; D, straining piece; E, principal rafter; F, rafter.

From Carpentry for Boys In a Simple Language, Including Chapters on Drawing, Laying Out Work, Designing and Architecture With 250 Original Illustrations by Zerbe, James Slough

This remark has reference to such types as dispense with the cross, or tie beam, which is the distinguishing feature in bridge building.

From Carpentry for Boys In a Simple Language, Including Chapters on Drawing, Laying Out Work, Designing and Architecture With 250 Original Illustrations by Zerbe, James Slough

It is strictly a tie intended to prevent the sagging of the tie beam, B, in the middle.

From Carpentry for Boys In a Simple Language, Including Chapters on Drawing, Laying Out Work, Designing and Architecture With 250 Original Illustrations by Zerbe, James Slough

Two sketches are shown at the joining of the tie beam and the principal rafter.

From Woodwork Joints How they are Set Out, How Made and Where Used. by Fairham, William