Will my logs shrink and crack?
Yes. And if someone tells you otherwise, back away from them slowly. Let’s explain:
Normal Checking
The important part is to get as much of the shrinking and checking (cracking) completed before milling the logs. This is commonly accomplished by either dry stacking or kiln drying the logs. We use kiln dried cants, and kiln dry our logs as well. This way you have a much better chance of seeing any movement and/or checking before the logs are cut. That said, some checking and shrinking will occur after construction. We do allow for log shrinkage in our point load systems and screw adjusters, but we have rarely had to adjust any of them in the past.
Abnormal Checking
Look out for major checking in logs. These have a tendency to create a problem over time, especially if the check is facing up to collect water.
Bad Log Split in Wall
Bad Split in Log Wall (Competitor Log)
If the water collects, then freezes, you have a problem that will get much worse over time.
Is there a size limit to how big or small a log home can be?
Are log homes more difficult to build than conventionally framed homes?
Is metal roofing more expensive than traditional 30 year architectural shingles?
Are Log Homes Energy Efficient? What is Thermal Mass?
Woah, woah, woah, captain… haha! One at a time, and we promise we will get to them all.
While this has been a huge area of recent conversations, the facts remain on the log home side. Hundreds of years of history prove that log homes work, and they work well. But we also have the technical, geeky stuff to throw at you, too.
Proper Construction Makes All The Difference:
With proper construction, log homes are among the most efficient homes available. With improper construction, they can be some of the biggest money pits known to man. As Bo Sparks (our co-founder) would say, “If a log home is built right, you can’t beat it. If not, you can’t heat it.”
We have been brought into situations where energy bills were in excess of $500 per month. After changing HVAC units, adding insulation, and making a few changes to exterior doors and windows, the same home had a bill reduction of over $300 per month. Ask for more details and the complete backstory.
You Must Find An Experienced Log Home Builder:
In order for your home to be built correctly, you have to find a contractor who knows about log home construction. Otherwise, your investment turns into a money pit. Be sure to check with your local building department before starting your search. They often have a list of trusted builders, and hopefully log home builders in your area, who will be able to do the job right the first time. As always, if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us!
Retirement and The End Goal:
Above all, keep the end goal in mind. It is difficult to retire into your dream log home and at the same time pay for energy bills with a home constructed improperly.
Helpful Links:
Here are a few links to help understand the processes of thermal mass and how it is related to log home construction:
Rob Pickett and Associates has a few very nice (although a bit technical) explanations –
DOE Warms up to Thermal Mass in Log Walls
Comfy Cozy via Log Homes Illustrated July 2007
Inspectapedia.com – Heating and Cooling – R-value and thermal mass
How can we do business when we’re miles away?
Long Distance Home Building:
The majority of our home owners live many miles away from us. Answers are always as close as your phone or computer. Our design team can work with you via Virutal Design, using our BIM software. If you have an internet connection, you are as good as sitting here face-to-face with our designers.
While most of our build projects are local to the East Tennessee area, we have crews that travel. Ask today to find out if we service your area!
Be sure to check out our reviews section, or feel free to ask us for a list of references. We will gladly give these out to anyone asking for more advice. Even if you aren’t using our services, we do our best to help where we can.
How is the building process begun with Custom Timber Log Homes?
What is the average timeline for building a log home from start to finish?