This point cloud has been cut away to reveal the framing details (balloon framing) within the Canada Customs Building. Balloon framing was commonly used in the 19th and early 20th century for the construction of buildings in remote areas. Also known as “Chicago construction”, it uses long continuous framing studs that run from the sill plate to the top plate. Although there would undoubtably have been highly skilled ships carpenters on Herschel Island, one of the advantages of balloon framing was that it was relatively easy and quick to construct. Unlike other framing designs, however, a small fire could quickly spread vertically through the balloon frame wall studs – something that could be disastrous if it occured during the winter months.
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