subject: Unique Benefits & Characteristics of Handcrafted Log Homes [print this page] Handcrafted Log Homes are the choice of those with the distinguishing taste for living in a custom home environment that is constructed unlike any other living space.
Each handcrafted log home is made by a special crew of log home builders who design a home that is unique from any other and crafted to fit custom specifications.
If you are interested in handcrafted log homes for sale or interested in having your own log home designed, there are several distinct features of Custom Build Log Homes that separate them from other forms of milled log home construction.
One of the most distinguishing features of custom handcrafted log homes is the size and structure of the logs used to make the homes.
Log sizes for these types of handcrafted log homes tend to be on the larger scale averaging around 15 inches in diameter.
The logs themselves may be shaped square or circular and many log home builders use only the highest quality old growth logs. These logs are natural and are not subject to milling operations which can machine logs and remove certain imperfections or unwanted features.
Because of the larger log diameters, the walls of handcrafted log homes often appear larger than normal and produce a magnificent, majestic looking structural form.
A main difference between the visible natural features of handcrafted log homes and other home construction is the more natural appearance of the logs when the custom log house is completed.
All intrinsic external properties of the logs are retained, including imperfections that give the completed structure a truly natural and distinctly unique look. Each piece of log used looks different and possesses its own innate character.
Handcrafted Log Home Plans can also receive input from the future homeowner as well to incorporate unique features that are particular to his or her interest.
Energy efficiency in handcrafted log homes generally refers to how well the structure minimizes heat loss during cooler months. Handcrafted log homes that are properly constructed have some of the highest energy efficiency ratings of any residential structure.
The large diameter logs provide the first part of the potential energy efficiency of the home because of their significantly higher R-value. Proper construction by handcrafted log home builders and other contractors can insure a tight fitting structure keeping heating and cooling costs low.
Each custom built log home is designed according to its own unique plans and specifications.
Skilled artisans with years of experience cut, shape and notch every handpicked log used in the construction process.
Logs are peeled by hand, producing the highly desirable uneven surface along the sides of each log.
A process called chinking is often used if the logs are not scribed to match adjoining surfaces. In the chinking process, an acrylic compound is applied to the shaved sides of the log surfaces and prevents outside wind from flowing between the logs.
Handcrafted log home plans are generally pre-built offsite, deconstructed and then transported to the new home site for re-construction upon a permanent foundation.
During the forming process of the initial log home construction, when the handcrafted logs are fitted together, they are numbered prior to shipment to the building site.
Therefore, once the handcrafted log home builders transport the individual pieces to the home site, erection can usually be accomplished in less than five days.
Unique Benefits & Characteristics of Handcrafted Log Homes
