Why Fully Kiln-Dried Logs?

Why Fully Kiln-Dried Logs?                                                       close

First, it produces logs that are more uniform and dimensionally stable. A green log loses moisture until it eventually achieves a balance with the environment. As that moisture is lost, natural stresses in the timber cause checking and twisting. When this occurs in a log wall, joints can loosen and air-infiltration can occur. Drying in a controlled environment minimizes checking. Also, any logs that exhibit severe stress changes prior to final milling can be discarded. The result will be a more uniform appearance for log walls and tighter wood joints.

Second, timbers are sanitized when they are heated to 180 degrees in a kiln for 28 to 34 days. This heat kills mold, wood decay fungi, and any insects and their eggs and larvae. Therefore, it is unnecessary to use any chemical treatment on Strongwood logs.

Third, pitch in wood is crystallized by the heat of the kiln. This prevents the sticky substance from seeping through the logs.

Fourth, more than 5,000 kg of water can be removed from a typical log house during the kiln-drying process. This significantly reduces weight for both shipping and handling on the work site.

Fifth, strength and stiffness are increased and fasteners hold better.

Sixth, interior and exterior finishes can be applied immediately after construction. These applications penetrate deeper and last longer in kiln-dried logs.

The 8 Steps To Your New Log Home

The 8 Steps To Your New Log Home                                     close

2. DECIDE ON THE STYLE – Choose the log profile and corner style you prefer. Log profiles may be Square, D-Log, or Round. Corners may be Dovetail, Butt-and-Pass, Saddle-notch, or Corner Post. There are also options that include chinked, rustic, hand-hewn, or hand-peeled finishes.

3. CALCULATE HOW MUCH HOUSE YOU CAN AFFORD – Your lender will be helpful in this area. The size, style, and finishing details of your home are all dependent on an understanding of what your budget is.

4. ASSEMBLE YOUR TEAM – Search for a log home builder such as Bison Creek, where we understand the construction process, have dozens of style choices, maintain design services in-house, and offer the log package options to fit your dreams and your budget.

5. DETERMINE YOUR LEVEL OF PARTICIPATION – Decide if you want to be involved in the actual construction process; and, if so, to what degree. You may prefer a turn-key home in which a general contractor like Quartzite Developments and a trained dealer like Bison Creek manage every phase of construction from start to finish.

6. SELECT YOUR FLOOR PLAN – Many home owners begin with this step. If you have a floor plan in mind, whether a simple sketch or from a plans book, we will help you customize it to meet your exact needs and budget.

7. PREPARE FINAL PLANS – We fine tune your preliminary plan, draw construction prints, and provide a guaranteed cost for your log package. Bison Creek and Quartzite Developments will provide the total cost for the building options that you choose.

8. BEGIN HOME CONSTRUCTION – When financing is in place and all the appropriate permits are obtained, construction begins. A Bison Creek representative is on site throughout the construction of every home to ensure success.