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Log Home Information
Listed below are some common questions asked about Montana Log Homes.
If you have any other questions that we have not answered here, please call us
at (970) 879-3031 or click here to contact us.
WHAT SPECIES OF LOGS DO YOU USE?
Lodgepole Pine and Engelmann Spruce are the most common. We utilize dead and dying trees
from the northwest and air dry them to a moisture content of 19% or less before they are crafted
into your log home. Dry stable logs and skilled craftsmen combine to provide you with tight fitting
joinery that will remain tight. Your logs will be hand peeled with a drawknife to retain the protective insulating layer just under the bark and to preserve the natural color, taper and character of each log.
WHAT IS YOUR CONSTRUCTION METHOD? We use the Swedish cope full scribe method of construction. Each log is prepared for cutting by precisely scribing it to fit the natural shape of the log below. Then using chainsaws and traditional hand tools the full length of the scribe is cut creating a "V" notch. The corners are saddle notched and then all the cuts are hand chiseled for a perfect log to log match. The "V" notch is filled with insulation. We also offer Chink style construction which consists of saddle notched corners only and the space between the logs are sealed with foam Backer Rod and chinking.
HOW ENERGY EFFICIENT IS A MONTANA LOG HOME?
Our log homes are some of the most energy efficient homes being built today. Because of their thermal mass and the cell structure of the wood fiber, your home will be more efficient to heat and cool than a conventional frame home built with 2 x 6 construction and R-19 insulation.
DO YOU BUILD CUSTOM HOMES?
Since our inception in 1975 we have not crafted two identical homes. While we do offer "stock" plans, your home will be as unique as the natural logs from which it is created. You are encouraged to modify our stock plans to fit your needs or our in-house drafting service will work with you to design the custom home of your dreams. We have also worked with many different architects, designers and their clients around the country to produce their handcrafted log homes. Whether you are looking to build a small cabin, a massive lodge or anything in-between we have the expertise to design and handcraft your log home.
HOW FAR DO YOU SHIP?
We have delivered homes to clients throughout North America and overseas. Your home will be loaded onto flatbed trucks operated by interstate carriers and delivered to your home site. When shipping overseas we utilize freight containers for ocean travel.
WHAT COMES WITH YOUR PACKAGE?
Our log work consists of all exterior walls, loft floor support system, roof support system, porch roof support system and any interior log walls you may desire. Optional log features include log gable ends, log trusses, timber frame trusses, log staircases, log hand railing, log archways, etc. (click here for more information)
WHO REASSEMBLES THE LOG WORK AT THE HOME SITE?
Montana Log Homes' experienced crew will accompany the logs to your home site. You or your general contractor will provide three local workers and a crane with a licensed operator for the duration of the reset. Once this is complete, our crew will cut all door and window openings, wall slots and any other necessary log trimming. Our crew will spend from three to six days on site depending on the size of the project.
CAN A LOG HOME BE BUILT OVER A BASEMENT?
Yes, we have assembled many homes on full basements. For daylight basements the wall framing is typically 2 x 8 construction to handle the weight of your log home.
WHAT TYPE OF SEALANT OR PRESERV- ATIVE IS USED?
We offer several different products to our clients. The exterior should be treated with a penetrating oil which protects against ultra-violet rays and adds water resistance to the logs. These products will need a fresh application every three to six years, depending on the product you choose and your home's exposure to the elements. The interior can be sealed with an all natural (citrus based) penetrating oil, polyurethane, or a stain with a top coat sealer. Follow up application should not be required. |
