PLANNING YOUR LOG HOME

15 Questions to prepare you for your dream home

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

This depends of course on the size and the quality of the materials you use. It even boils down to the fixtures and fittings you use. Make sure that when choosing a log producer, that they give you the total costs. (Sometimes additional expenses may pop up) Besides the purchase of the land, there is some preparation of the construction site. This includes, the driveway, drilling a well, hooking up with local water, sewer and utilities. Local builders and the municipality where you live can help you with that.

HOW CAN I LOWER MY COSTS?

Set your priorities. Moving parts such as fixtures, windows and doors are just as important as the structure itself. Get a solid idea of the costs and total expenses through the log producer and builder. Adjusting the design can change the entire project and increase costs.

WHO MAKES A LOG HOME?

More than 400 producers throughout Canada and the United States produce log homes. Their services may vary. Some strictly do the design of the building, others produce the materials. Some use distributors while others confine their business to certain geographic locals. A reference from a friend who already has a log home would be ideal but doing your homework is definitely recommended. Researching over the internet and magazines is a good start. Then tour model homes or recently built homes by local companies. Create a short-list and check into their work ethics and history through the Better Business Bureau or similar organizations.

WHERE CAN I FIND A FLOOR PLAN THAT SUITS ME?

You may or may not know what style and layout you desire for your home. Start by making a list of features that you wish to have. For example the numbers of baths, bedrooms etc. Then decide on the layout such as combining two rooms into one like a dining room / living room, which is an open concept.

WHAT WILL THE FINISHED PRODUCT LOOK LIKE?

This depends on what you include in the design. It also replies on budget and any limitations of the building site. Do you want a 2-storey, a bungalow? The style impacts the outcome. The site influences the end result such as is the home on a sloped hill or does is sit on flat land?

WHAT TYPE OF WOOD IS BEST USED TO BUILD THE HOME?

No one species is best. Some cost more than others, some have less maintenance required. Your builder may give you the best recommendation.

DOES MOISTURE CONTENT OF THE LOG MATTER?

Timbers are dried naturally before being cut – these are called standing dead logs. Quite a few people chose a “green” log which has high moisture content. The log producer would advise you best on this issue.

ARE CHEMICALS USED TO TREAT THE WOOD?

Long-term and short-term preservation may be used during the processing stage; depending on the producer. Usually the short-term process is used in areas with more humidity so that the logs will retain their moisture during shipping and construction. Any treatment is usually added to deter fungus, insects and overall deterioration. Again your log producer can help you determine how long and which treatment is best for you.

DO THE LOGS ALREADY COME PRE-CUT?

Logs usually come cut in two ways; they are cut at the process plant and shipped ready for building, they can come with pre-drilled holes for screws and electrical wiring for less labour. OR they come cut to the correct length and notched at the building site. A prepared package is more convenient if you plan on doing most of the work yourself.

LOG PROFILES. WHAT ARE THEY?

This means the shape of the log. Most common are round, square, rectangular and “D-logs.” The shape of the logs greatly influences the overall “shape” and appearance of your home.

WHAT WILL MY LOG PACKAGE INCLUDE?

Look for items such as:

o         Wood species and grade for all structural components

o         Type of log profile

o         Moisture content when they leave the plant

o         Treatment of the logs

o         Type and numbers of fasteners

o         Type and amount of sealants

o         Number of sets of blueprints included

o         Cost of delivery and whether it is part of the package price

o         Cost of each item to compare them with the price of local materials

WHAT IS A PURCHASE AGREEMENT?

This is a contract you sign with your log producer. It includes the price, payment terms and provisions for canceling the deal. You should consult with the producer to make sure that there is some kind of Warranty included.

HOW ARE THE LOGS DELIVERED?

Some producers include delivery within their price. Some carriers are contracted out by the log producer and some are direct distributors of the product. Mileage and other charges may apply to the delivery so always double check. You should also be prepared in case something goes amiss such as late delivery, damaged product etc.

WHO BUILDS THESE HOMES?

Some log producers limit themselves to making and selling the logs. While others do that and build the home. The person you choose depends on whether or not you're doing some of the building or if you have a specific builder in mind.

IS ONE BUILDING SYSTEM BETTER THAN ANOTHER?

It is doubtful that any one producer / builder is better than another. You might try and feel a good "vibe" with a producer / builder you are talking to. Instincts are usually correct - if something doesn't feel just right decide on someone else. Check references, reputation, quality of work etc. This might be one of the most important decisions you make in you life, so be sure everything is the way you want it.