1) What is the difference between handcrafted and milled log homes?

A handcrafted log home is composed of full round, hand-peeled, tree length logs, notched corner to corner. Each home is individually designed and crafted by a limited number of suppliers and builders. The milled packaged products are of uniform surfaces and limited lengths, requiring spliced walls. Packaged plans are standard, and material package suppliers are many (due to ease in marketing and packaging). Milled and handcrafted homes vary greatly in appearance, but with similar upgrades and workmanship, costs are similar. Anyone considering investing should see both.

2) Can you add on to a log home?

Yes, by someone experienced in remodels and specialized log construction. Adding on later is an option to keep costs down now.

3) Are log homes more expensive than conventional homes?

Yes, a budget oriented frame house is cheaper than the least expensive log home, but a budget oriented log home can be less expensive than an upgraded custom frame home. When comparing things like log roof systems to exposed beam roof systems, prices are similar.

4) Do you live in a log home?

Yes, I collected logs and notched up my home over 20 years ago.

5) Are log homes warm?

Yes. Thermal mass and quality construction are keys. Log homes in colder climates are ideal and common.

6) Do I need an architect?

No, but log home design and construction experience are essential. City and County Building departments do require structural engineering for log roof systems and other special considerations.

7) Can I do it myself, efficiently to save money?

This is an advanced form of construction, and experienced professionals are essential to efficient quality and getting the most for your money.

8) Can I convert frame house plans to log?

Existing plans, rooms, pictures, and notes are all good places to start. All my plans are individually, custom designed. By having more specs. worked out in advance, you may save time and money in the design process. Several special considerations need to be addressed, such as log ends, wall thickness, etc.

9) How can I keep costs down?

Size and simplicity help a great deal. Log walls with fewer turns (notches) and angles help. Things like log roof systems are great, but expensive. Hardwood floors, tile, and stone work are some things that can be added later. Efficient management and craftsmanship are essential.

10) What is the difference between Handcrafted Chink style and Swedish Cope?

Swedish Cope style log work is where each log is coped over the log below it, lengthwise. This is more labor intensive and more expensive. When looking at the log walls, you see wood to wood. With Chink style, you see chink material of optional colors between the logs. I believe Chink style offers more for the money, but Swedish Cope is really the ultimate in handcrafted log homes.