"I've always wanted a log home."
Log homes break down into two basic categories. Full log structures and log siding. With full log structures, the logs on the exterior of the home are also visible on the interior. The log-sided structure is a log look achieved by placing the log siding over the conventional stud wall. Within these two categories are many choices for the log buyer concerning style, size and specie of wood to be used.
"What is the "R" Value?"
Wood is nature's best insulator and log walls have a tremendous amount of mass. Mass acts as a collector rather than a resistor and can act to cool as well as to heat the log home. Air infiltration can be the number one cause of heat loss in any type of home. To get a fair comparison of how a log home heats and cools, talk to people who have lived in the style log home that you're interested in. Not all conventional homes are equal when it comes to energy efficiency and the same holds true for log structures.
"What exterior maintenance is required?"
Maintenance will be comparable to a wood sided home. Stain containing some pigment and UV protection is recommended as well as larger overhangs to keep the elements off the wood. The frequency of staining depends on the penetration of the stain and the exposure to the elements.
"I want to build my own home."
Building a home can be a satisfying and memorable experience, but people need to remain realistic. Some questions to consider are; is my financial institution going to support this? How much time do I have to commit to the project? Do I have a good building support group? How much support will I have from my log home dealer?
"Will I get tired of all the wood?"
Generally speaking, people who do not like wood will not build a log home. A full log home is usually built with the exterior walls remaining exposed. Interior walls, ceilings, and floor coverings can be finished to suit a person’s taste. With the technically advanced products for wood care readily available, interior wood is very low maintenance after the initial finish is applied.
"What kind of foundation can I put my log home on?"
The log home can be erected on any properly constructed foundation – block walls, poured concrete walls, or treated wood foundations.
"Do you sell a log kit?"
The use of the word “kit” has probably confused more people than it has helped. “Kits” are available in logs only, closed to weather, and completed kits. Be sure you, or your builder, are sure of exactly what will come with the kit and what is your responsibility to furnish.
"How do I get started?"
Planning is always "time well spent." Asking questions of knowledgeable people is also important. There are very good sources of information at your local library and bookstore. Planning a home that you will be comfortable in is a benefit of building your own home. Talk to your financial institution to find out what you can afford. Make your list of needs, wants and wishes. Get bids from contractors. Bids will be more accurate with blue prints but estimates are usually available with floor plans. Decide if you will want to do some of the work yourself.
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Testimonials
"Making your "dreams a reality" is what Coulee Region Log Homes is all about. Working with such down to earth, honest people is what really makes them stand out from others. Because of their excellence in custom home log building, I would recommend them to anyone."
"Thanks for everything. Your logs are better than anything I saw at the National Log Cabin Show in Minneapolis.....I appreciate all the "extra" service and advice."