Log Home Construction Guide

'Home is where the heart is', it is a place we look forward to go back to, after a hard day's work! The mere mention of log home evokes a sense of romanticism associated with a scenic natural space. It is mostly associated with an exotic location in movies. The Americans also used logs to build public utilities like schools, colleges, barns, gristmills and variety of outdoor structures. The American log building culture is largely derived from the Scandinavian, Finnish and Russian influences.

The quest to build a log home begins with the choice of a log home producer. Log homes are still a popular demand and so there are a lot of construction companies to cater to the people's needs. Factors to be considered before starting actual construction are - the associated costs, location for building that dream house, mortgage rates and construction financing.

Before getting started always check

• Are you ready to manage the project?
• Are you ready to face inspections, weather problems or permit issues?
• Will the everyday living or family be affected during the course of work?

Doubts related to such issues would definitely be cleared by a good log home construction company. Therefore, always ensure clarity on these matters while selecting a construction firm.

Log home construction types
The residence can be be a luxurious setting in the mountains or a even simple home complete with the basic living amenities; there is a flexibility of choice.

Wood is the essence of a log home. It gives us the feel of being one with nature, yet protects us against the hot or cold weather. Log homes are warm in winter and cool in summer. There are two types of log homes depending on the wood - handcrafted and milled. The handcrafted log homes are made up of natural logs. These are not given finishing touches and retain their crude state. The milled or processed ones run the log through lot of machined processes where the logs are shaped according to the requirement. It is a complex arrangement of logs interlocked in different styles. The design and structure can be categorized in some building styles. These are:

• Scandinavian full scribe: Naturally shaped and smoothly-peeled logs are custom-fitted to each other in this type of log home.
• Flat-on-flat: Logs are flattened on the top and bottom, and stacked in a pre-defined style.
• Milled tongue and grove systems: In this structure, logs are aligned together and sealed out as a single big construction
• Tight pin butt and pass method: This format includes vertical pairs of logs fastened with load bearing pins.

Before constructing a log home

1. Choose your location wisely. It should be in harmony with the design idea, affordable and should be aesthetically pleasing. You can also visualize nature as a home town, and the home as a landmark in it.
2. Make an informed selection of the various materials required, especially wood. Milled logs are more preferable as they save time and costs of construction. There is a very less maintenance cost associated with such homes. Hence, avoid compromise on the quality of material.
3. Attend log home shows and exhibits to know about the latest trends emerging in the market. Take some time to learn about different construction methods.
4. Choose the best time to build, working together with the designers. A design consultant is the best choice to start working on such a project. The designer will help in checking various feasibilities and constraints.
5. Let your creativity take shape in the form of a dream home. Except a few mandatory adjustments, stick to the original plan and avoid unnecessary last minute alterations and hence the resulting delays.

Why own a log home?
Log homes are one of the most creative aspects of modern day living. It is a tradition dating back to almost 500 years but still in demand for its pleasant lifestyle. All over the world, we find beautiful log homes nestled in the lap of nature. There is a great structural value for these solid foundations. These are always in demand and also a good value for money in case of a sale. Living in a log home is a rejuvenating experience. The serenity prevailing all around will definitely bring peace to our mental and physical faculties. It enriches the quality of our lives. Wish you a lovely time constructing your sweet log home!