Lighting your log home

Lighting can influence how you feel and create the atmosphere you envisioned when designing your log home.  Lets review some lighting basics to help you get started.

Basics:  When developing your lighting plan, the experts suggest incorporating three lighting types in your plan which is determined by function and fashion.

• General:  Also known as ambient lighting.  Provides the area with overall lighting and creates sufficient brightness in any room.
• Task:  A direct light that can be focused on a specific area.  This type of lighting usually directs a light source down to the specific task area.  Used in kitchens for cooking, home offices for reading, etc.
• Accent:  Used to accent a specific item or used to highlight a decorative feature of your home, like the fireplace mantel, log or timber features, etc.  Also used in landscaping as well. 

Log Home Lighting Challenges:  Log homes offer some unique challenges when compared with conventional homes.

• Large great rooms with seating/furniture in the center of the room create the need for floor outlets for general or even task lighting.
• Some interior log wall surfaces can make wall mounting fixtures challenging.
• It’s often difficult to place concealed lighting in a log home.
• Wood tends to absorb light rather than reflect it.  The correct lighting in combination with window location and the use of drywall for interior walls can help make the room appear lighter.

Make A Plan:  Developing a lighting plan during the design stage is a smart idea.  A preliminary lighting plan will allow your general contractor/builder to provide you an estimate for your preliminary electrical plan for budgeting purposes so you can avoid cost overruns at the budgeting stage.  Here are some things to consider when developing your lighting plan:

• You’ll need to determine the use and what type of activities will occur for each room.
• What is the atmosphere and/or style of décor do you wish to create for each room?
• Determine how much natural light will each room receive?
• Factor in the amount of natural light in combination with the window and door location affect your lighting choices?
• How will furniture and your choice of décor affect your lighting choices?
• It’s also a good idea to list outlets and mark them on your blueprints.
• Review the lighting in your current home.  What works and what doesn’t work?
• Also consider energy efficiency when determining your lighting needs.  Effective use of fluorescent or low-voltage bulbs and incorporating dimmers can help.  Consult a local lighting professional and electrician for assistance.

  
  

Start Your Lighting Education Here:  Checkout www.americanlightingassoc.com which is an excellent lighting resource.  Ask your log home builder/dealer and electrician to assist you in developing your lighting plan or seek a certified lighting consultant at a local lighting showroom for assistance.

By The Leelanau Log Home Company LLC
www.leelanauloghomes.com 

Copyright 2011 Under the Influence of Wood Blog

Are solid or full log homes energy efficient?

With home energy costs on the rise and energy efficiency changes in the building codes one of the most frequently asked questions, “Are full log homes energy efficient?”  

The simple answer is yes.  Most folks know the term R-value, which is used for conventional framed housing, but I bet you didn't know that full log homes are measured by their thermal mass.  Here are the two terms defined.

R-value:  Measures a materials resistance to the transfer of heat from one side to another. 

Thermal Mass:  A materials capacity to absorb, retain and slowly release heat over time.

Logs have a relatively low resistance to heat transfer, but they do posses the ability to absorb and retain heat in there cellular structure.

In the 90’s the Log Home Council of the National Association of Home Builders was able to define two things.  First, logs have a thermal mass because of their cellular structure, bulk and thickness.  Second, thermal mass offers significant energy saving benefits because it releases heat back into the home when the temperature drops.

The first study focused on heat loss through the log wall compared to a stick framed wall.  The finding was that energy leakage occurred in the same places as a stick framed home, around window and door frames, at the peak of the cathedral ceiling and at the top of walls.  The conclusion that leakage was not due to the log walls.  The second study concluded that the thermal mass of the log wall does significantly reduce energy use for hearting in cold climates.

As a result, the Nation’s Model Energy Code recognized the energy conservation benefits of thermal mass.  This recognition was the goal of the Log Homes Council, a part of the Building Systems Councils of the National Association of Home Builders. 

This summary of the study was interpreted by The Leelanau Log Home Company.  To learn more read the study by the NAHB Log Homes Council: http://www.loghomes.org/docs/EnergyPerformanceWP_2010.pdf


By The Leelanau Log Home Company LLC
www.leelanauloghomes.com

Copyright 2012 Under the Influence of Wood Blog

Healthy Log Home: Controlling humidity

Take the humidity test:

• Do you wake up parched, dry nose or itchy eyes?
• Are the hardwood floors in your new log home creaking like an old ship?
• Does static electricity make loved ones and pets cringe at the touch?

If your answer is “YES” to any or all of the above you and your home could be suffering from lack of moisture in the air.  The measurement is called “Relative Humidity” which is defined as the ratio of the water vapor density (mass per unit volume) to the saturation water vapor density, usually expressed in percent.  

Too much can encourage mold growth, dust mites and place condensation on cold windows. And too little can create potential respiratory problems, damage to the home (remember you log home is made mostly of wood!) and furniture, plus the annoying items listed above.  Both extremes can be potentially bad for humans and your log homes performance.  I bet you didn't know that dry air can also be expensive…by adding water vapor to your home you can also reduce your heating bills.  Increasing the relative humidity by 10% is roughly the equivalent of raising the room temperature by one degree.   

Years ago folks would boil a kettle of water on the wood stove, which was not very effective.  Today’s log home is typically much larger and using the kettle method is just totally inadequate.   The Environmental Protection Agency recommends keeping indoor relative humidity between 35 to 50 percent.  The good news is there are several options to create and maintain the appropriate relative humidity in your log home. 

Here are some suggested guidelines to help you decide what’s best for you:

Increasing humidity: 

Portable humidifiers:  Simple to operate, easy to install, counter top size or free standing.  Prices range from $25-$150.  The main disadvantages are the small area they cover (you may have to purchase more than one), they can be noisy and a hassle to refill with water.  Select an evaporative unit, one that creates water droplets can emit bacteria or aid in mold growth.  Make sure you check the humidifier output to insure its sized right for your home.

Whole house systems:  By far the best way to go is to have it installed by your HVAC contractor at the time of construction (you can also add it later).    Costs can range from $400-$1000.  The main advantage is they connect to your central water supply and you can control the level or percent of humidity.  They still require maintenance and should be checked periodically like other appliances in your home. 

Reducing humidity: 


Portable dehumidifiers:  Inexpensive and simple to operate, but noisy, only affect a small area and a hassle to empty the water.  Prices range from $100 to $400.  A portable dehumidifier is best used in conjunction with your air conditioning system.


Air conditioning:  Many folks think that by installing a whole house air conditioning system will control the level of humidity in the home.  By lowering the actual air temperature in your home can actually increase relative humidity and reduces the temperature of the materials in the structure which increases the risk for condensation.  If you attempt to control humidity by reducing the temperature you’ll accomplish only having a very cold living space, jack-up your energy costs and put excessive wear on your cooling system. 

Whole house dehumidifier system:  These systems are designed to remove moisture from your home.  Depending where you live, this may be a sound choice.  A whole house dehumidifier senses the level of humidity in your home and maintains that ideal level.  Better systems work in conjunction with your air conditioning system.  Check with your HVAC contractor for prices.  By maintaining the right level of humidity in your home using these systems you’ll be able to increase the temperature without sacrificing comfort, ease the wear on your cooling system and save energy costs       

Which ever systems you choose, always consult a HVAC professional for advice and costs. 
Think of controlling humidity as an investment in your home and your health.

By The Leelanau Log Home Company LLC
www.leelanauloghomes.com 

Copyright 2011 Under the Influence of Wood Blog

Log Home and Construction Terms

Every industry has their own lingo and the log home and construction biz is certainly no exception.  Ever have this happen to you...you're shopping and want to learn more about a product and the salesperson is using technical terms and you have no idea what he's talking about.  Very annoying!

When meeting with a log home dealer/builder to discuss your project a professional dealer/builder will be able to gauge your knowledge base and use terms that are easy for you to understand.  These experts are adept at explaining  complex and technical details with clarity and are focused on educating, not preaching.  It's a small point, but if you run into this it maybe a sign about future interactions and may identify their ability or inablity to communicate with you effectively.

For a list of log home and construction terms, visit our website by clicking on this link below: http://shop.leelanauloghomes.com/shopcontent.asp?type=loghomeresources_glossary_llh

By The Leelanau Log Home Company LLC

www.leelanauloghomes.com 


Copyright 2011 Under the Influence of Wood Blog

Is there a difference between a builder and general contractor?

The answer is yes!  Like many industries, construction terms and titles can have different meanings depending on the individual and can be toss about with the assumption that you know the meaning(s).  Here's how we define them.

The builder is typically the individual who will actually construct your home that may include  setting the foundation, raising the log walls, framing, roofing, install windows and doors, trim carpentry, etc. 

The general contractor (a.k.a the G.C.) will act as the project manager who will prepare and present you the construction contract and schedules, execute the schedules, monitor quality, coordinate and communicate with the subcontractors (subcontractor is hired typically by the G.C. to perform specific work such as drywall, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, etc.), prepare the paperwork for draws for the title company and bank, communicate progress and issues to the homeowner, etc.

Many times a builder (typically a smaller company) not only swings a hammer, but serves as the general contractor as well.  This individual wears many hats and is typically on the jobsite daily.

So before you sign the construction contract, make sure you know who's wearing which hat!

By The Leelanau Log Home Company LLC

www.leelanauloghomes.com 

Copyright 2011 Under the Influence of Wood Blog

Log Home Preliminary Planning Basics: Needs vs. Wants

We're amazed how even the most educated log home buyer struggles  to articulate clearly their design ideas or elements inside their log home.  Maybe it's the complexity and unknowns of building a custom log home or what ever, but it happens.  

Before you sit down with your log home dealer and/or builder, we recommend completing a needs and wants list based on your log home vision.  This exercise can be revealing and help get you started to define your new log home.  Think of it as an assessment...compare your living conditions now, what works, what doesn't and how will you design elements into your new home that fit your lifestyle needs more effectively and efficiently.  The better prepared you are to share this vision in some detail, the better your dealer or builder will be able to serve your needs.  

Here are some tips to develop your Needs and Wish list.   

1.     It’s best if you can create two lists side-by-side in an Excel spreadsheet.  If you don’t want to use a computer, use two sheets of paper which will work just fine.

2.    Create 3 columns for your Needs and Wants list.  The first column is for the item, the second column is for notes or references and the third column is for a priority rating (keep it simple and use numbers such as a 1 through 5 scale).

3.     A Need should be defined as an element that you must have in your log home.  For

      example:  ranch design, hardwood floors in the great room, tile master shower, large deck, etc.  A Wish is an element you would like to have if the budget allows.  For example: granite counter tops or 3-car garage or additional bathroom or gourmet kitchen, etc.   

4.     If you already have a design in mind, start by listing needs and wants room by room.
5.  Often times when you are working with your list and learning more about costs, items will start moving from one list to another.  So keep an open mind.

6.  Use photos from log home magazines or the internet to help you communicate your ideas to the dealer and builder.  Start a file folder by room (i.e. great room, kitchen, etc.) to organize your ideas and photos.

7.     If you are 2-3 years away from building your log home, it’s a good idea to do this exercise now.  As you get closer and become more knowledgeable about costs, you’ll want to make adjustments to your lists.

Tip:  a good dealer and builder will review your lists with you and help you prioritize the items on the list based on your budget and design.  Then outline optional choices based on cost, type of material and quality of materials. 

By The Leelanau Log Home Company LLC

www.leelanauloghomes.com 

Copyright 2011 Under the Influence of Wood Blog

Waterfront Foundations

Waterfront lots are prized for their value, recreational access and setting.  Because the foundation of any home is critically important, a home near water requires special consideration from you as the homeowner, your builder, local building department and the foundation contractor.

As the homeowner or builder, you should visit your local building department and gather any information about the sub-surface soils you are about to build on.  Your local building inspector, in most cases will have information about the soils and earth layer make-up of your water front lot.  Keep in mind this will be an educated guess based on historical data from other completed home sites. 

You may want to choose a foundation contractor who has experience on your particular lake or river.  They’ll also have the knowledge of soil conditions, remedies for high water tables and be able to offer additional solutions to keep your foundation performing for generations.  As the homeowner, you may want to contact your new neighbors and ask them about the performance of their basement/crawl space.  Do they have water problems, poor indoor air quality, foundation stability issues, etc.  Review their foundation depths and compared their responses.  Does your builder of choice have experience building on water front sites?  If not, do you really want to be his first?

The important thing to remember is to set your foundation floor at an elevation above any normal and high water tables in order to maintain a dry and healthy home environment.

By The Leelanau Log Home Company LLC

www.leelanauloghomes.com 

Leelanau Log Home News

The Leelanau Log Home Company LLC is proud to announce joining Strongwood Log Homes as an independent dealer representative.  Strongwood, located in Waupaca, Wisconsin manufacturers log, timber frame and handcrafted log home packages.  To learn more go to: www.gostrongwood.com

Log Home Site Planning Basics: How to stakeout the location of your new log home

You've been walking your property for years pondering where put your log home.  After careful consideration during the site planning process, you've found the perfect spot.  If you’re smart, you will want to pinpoint (to within inches) exactly where your new home will permanently sit.  This is an exciting first step in the construction of your new log home, so lets get started.  Depending on the size and shape of your new home, you will want to purchase enough 4 foot stakes and string to lay out the perimeter of your house in full scale. Here are the materials and tools you'll need:

• Stakes for all the outside corners of your home
• Colored string
• Hammer 
• 100’ measuring tape
• Scaled floor plan of your home

Let’s begin, first you’ll want to start with the exterior wall that has the primary view typically the great room wall and stake each side according to your floor plan.  The remaining walls will be measured and staked off this wall.  Next from one of the stakes your just installed, measure the next wall  dimension to the nearest inch according to your floor plans and plant a stake.  Try to keep them square as possible, you'll return to each stake to make sure they are aligned properly later.  Keep repeating this step until you've staked the entire perimeter of your home. 

Next you'll want to square up your stakes by measuring the primary four corners diagonally to assure your stakes are squared.  Check and recheck and adjust all the walls as necessary.  
Once the stakes are squared to within just a couple of inches per your floor plans, go around to each stake and drive them into the ground with the hammer at least 12 ".  Next take your color string and wrap it around each stake to outline the perimeter of your new log home.

Now you can actually walk through your future home in full scale and see what the views will look like from each room.  This is the critical point to evaluate your placement and re-stake if desired.  

By The Leelanau Log Home Company LLC
www.leelanauloghomes.com

Log Home FAQ: Exterior Maintenance

How much Exterior Maintenance Is Required For A Log Home?

The amount of exterior maintenance will vary depending on the location and position of your home on the site. Typically you may have to reapply a stain coat every 3-7 years, but there are many variables at play such as UV exposure, quality of finish, quality of preparation and application, log moisture content, caulk job, etc. 

 Areas of your home that receive longer periods of sunlight (UV exposure) will require re-coating more frequently. Typically a darker the stain color will last longer due to the dark pigment that protects against UV.  Plus there are new products on the market today that can extend the life of your stain. 

Your log home dealer and builder can recommend stain and caulk products, review how to  conduct routine maintenance inspections, suggest tips how to extend the life of your exterior stain and review with you the importance of caulk.

The bottomline...maintaining your exterior finish on your log home is an ongoing process and protecting your investment by learning tips from the pro's is a wise decision.

Click on the link below and read this excellent white paper from the Log Home Council website:

Download a PDF about the maintenance of log structures.

By The Leelanau Log Home Company LLC

www.leelanauloghomes.com

Log Home Design Basics: Smart design on a tight budget

1.  Design and Engineering:

We recommend that when shopping for a log home company, they offer in-house drafting,    design and engineering services.  These important services offer you assurance that all the components of your log home will work properly together reducing the risk of structural issues down the road.  Think of your custom log home as a “system”, with all those parts working in concert together.  Expert design and engineering, combined with a builder that is skilled in log home construction will result in a quality built custom home that will be free of issues.

2.  Square Feet: 
Determining the overall size of your log home can be a challenging task.  Our advice is design room by room using your current home as a guide.  Here are some things to think about:

• Rooms...how many bedrooms do you need now, plus how many in the future?  What size works with your furniture, are you planning on downsizing for this new home?
• Too many hallways?  Hallways can waste space and take up room in your design that could be living space.  Are there ways to change the design to increase living space while allowing easy access to rooms?
• Traffic flow.  There are simple rules of thumb when looking at the flow in your new log home design.  Entry ways, landings or hallways ideally should be at least 4 feet wide. Walking pathways through rooms should be at least 3 feet and have multiple access points.
• Schedule with your log home dealer of choice to visit their model home, current projects for finished log homes to get an idea of room sizes and scale.  This will be a valuable experience for you and help you make the right choices for room dimensions.
• Smaller maybe smarter?  The trend is to build smaller and use the space more efficiently and really invest those hard earned dollars towards upgrades such as elaborate fireplaces, flat screen TVs, custom built-ins and woodwork, high end cabinets, flooring, etc.
• Don’t go it alone.  Work with your dealer or builder to help you with your design.  They can offer you options that you may not be aware of, while keeping your budget in mind.

3.  Shape of the log home:
Log homes are labor intensive which is one of the factors that affect the higher labor rates than a conventional stick-built home.  The shape of your home will impact the shell-in labor cost, which means the more complicated the design, i.e. the more inside and outside corners, built-up roof systems, multiple roof pitches that a home has the more it will cost to build.  The key here is to work with your log home dealer or builder on the design so they can offer options to minimize corners or complicated designs that can affect cost for those on a tight budget.

4.  Style and size of the log:
For many the style and size of the log is tops on their needs list.  Did you know that the most common log profile is the “D-log” which industry insiders say accounts for 70-80% of all the log home packages sold in the USA.  Since the D-log is common, construction costs for that log profile will be less expensive.  The larger the log diameter, expect to pay increased labor costs for construction.  

5.  Go log siding:
Conventionally framed homes with half log siding are all the rage today.  This log home building system has big cost advantages (lower materials and labor costs) than the traditional full log system.  You get all the log home look and appeal at a lower cost.  In fact, the last two custom log homes that we've built have been stick-built with half log siding system.  Terrific value.

6.  Design down, not up or out:
For many the basement is that place for a workshop, storage and a place to put all the mechanical systems.  Why not consider designing living space in the basement from the start.  Here are some advantages:

• The basement with living space offers you the lowest cost per square foot in the home.
• You can reduce the size of the log home footprint and actually increase your total living square feet by utilizing the living space in the basement.
• If your land offers the option for a walkout basement, you have lots of design opportunities to save big bucks.
• This is a great way to stretch that investment dollar and give you the room that you need.

7.  Interior finishes selections:
Interior finish items and systems can account for approximately 60% of the total cost of your custom log home.  Being wise and s

8.  Sweat Equity:
The definition of this term is when you as the homeowner perform some or all of the construction yourself.  Many log home builders are flexible and will allow you to perform certain tasks or phases to save costs.  However, let me share a word of caution.  If you plan to do some of the work, you’ll need to make sure you have the time and skills to perform the work. Otherwise you could delay your log home project or run up costs.        

9.  Upgrade later:
Certain parts of your log home may be delayed or planned for the future as time or money or both present themselves.  You may consider opting for laminate kitchen counter tops versus granite, or finishing your walkout basement at a later date.

10.   Allow enough time for preliminary planning:
In this microwave get it done yesterday society, many folks don’t allow themselves enough time to do effective and through preliminary planning.  By that we mean, taking the time to discuss, evaluate and determine all the project specifics with the log home dealer and builder.  Typically from the site visit through the final preliminary floorplan and cost proposals it will take 3-4 months.  in between there are numerous conversations and meetings to create your game plan.

11.  Think efficiency, think Green:
Green building has many definitions today, but at the core of this movement is energy efficiency.  By thinking “Green” during your preliminary planning phase and incorporating the concept into your design can actually save you money during the life of the home by making smart choices.  Here are a few ways to save operating costs by thinking Green:

• Position your home on your site to take advantage of passive solar gain that can save you big bucks on heating and cooling.  You’ll need to determine room and window placement within the home design.
• Consider the square foot of each room.  Do you really need a 24’ x 20’ Great room?  Can the design incorporate the kitchen square foot with the Great room?  Remember, all that space needs to be heated and cooled.
• Volume of the home does matter.  Just consider that if you increase the wall height from a standard 8’ to 12’ you’ll need to heat and cool an additional 25% more volume of air.  Consider only higher ceilings in areas that create the ambiance you are looking for, while keeping lower ceiling heights in areas such as bedrooms.
• What type of insulation you use can make a big difference in your operating cost
• Determine what type of heating and cooling system your budget will allow.  For example, conventional gas forced air systems are most common and are cost effective systems.  But consider this, if you upgrade to a geo-thermal system your intial investment will be 50-60% higher, but could pay for itself in 10 years.  Add ceiling fans in strategic locations with in the home and consider a zero-clearance fireplace with a blower to off-set your winter heating bills.

Smart design concepts can help you create an efficient and cost effective log home.  

By The Leelanau Log Home Company LLC

www.leelanauloghomes.com 

Fireplace & Stove Basics

Imagine…its January…blustery cold…you plop on the couch after a tough week at work...gazing through the window of your log home you can see kids ice skating on the frozen lake.  Totally relaxed now, you turn to the fireplace to add another log on the fire. 

For many, a similar Norman Rockwell like image is etched in their minds when they think of their dream log home.  The fireplace is often a center piece of any design and adds comfort and value to your investment.  

But today you have many choices, here are some basics to help you get started.

There's a wide selection of size, style, quality, price, efficiency, performance, etc. for a fireplace or stove from numerous manufactures.  To help you narrow your search, start by asking yourself these questions to help you determine what’s best for you.

1. How often do you plan to use the fireplace or stove?  As a heat source (alternative/primary) or just have an occasional fire for ambience?
2. What type of fuel do you plan to burn, hardwood, pellets, corn, coal or gas?  What are the availability, access and cost of your fuel of choice?
3. Is efficiency or environmental concerns important to you?
4. What level of priority is a fireplace or stove on your “wish list” and how much can you allocate to this item in the budget?

Fireplace Options:

The traditional masonry fireplace or firebox which is typically made of brick/stone and mortar and requires substantial structural support to carry the weight.  If this is your choice you’ll need to plan ahead and design in footing and foundation support at the preliminary design stage.  A traditional fireplace is very inefficient, around 10%.  You’ll also have an option to install a fireplace insert to improve efficiency.

 

The most popular option today is to install an engineered (also known as pre-fabricated or zero-clearance) fireplace unit with a double wall stainless steel chimney pipe inside a framed wall with culture stone veneer.  This option, you get the look of real stone, but with the choice for higher efficiency than a traditional fireplace.  Many manufactures offer outside air intakes and fan blowers to push heated air into the room.  There are typically three grades of fireplaces in this class, builder grade, heater grade, furnace grade.  The later can be EPA certified, offer insulated fireboxes, heat exchangers, upgraded doors for improve efficiency and offer higher quality of construction.

 

Masonry heaters (a.k.a.: Russian Stove, Finnish Fireplace, Soapstone Fireplace) are common in Europe and are a becoming a popular option in the USA (this will also require planning at the preliminary plan stage for structural support in the foundation).  They are designed to burn a hot fire where the exhaust flows through a series of baffles which allows the masonry thermo mass to slowly absorb the heat energy and release it back into the space.  These units are very clean burning, emit little smoke and very efficient up to 90%.  Masonry heaters can be custom built or you can purchase manufactured units of all sizes.  If you want to heat efficiently with wood and have the budget, this maybe a choice for you.

Stove Options:

Typically less expensive than a fireplace this is a cost effective way to add heat to your home as a primary or secondary heat source.    There is a wide selection of stoves on the market that burn a variety of fuel such as wood, corn, coal, gas, wood pellets, cherry pits and more.  Typically the stove is placed on tile or stone over a fire retardant underlayment.  Some pellet or gas stoves are near zero clearance and can be placed close to a wall with direct horizontal venting through the wall.  Efficiency varies by stove, but expect up to 60%.

No matter what system you choose, we recommend you consult with a fireplace professional to explain more about the products, performance and costs so you can determine which fireplace or stove that’s right for you.   Your builder can often supply you with names of local fireplace stores that can assist you.  We always recommend that you have your fireplace, stove, masonry heater built or installed by a professional. 

TIP:  If you plan to burn daily as a primary heat source, you’ll want to review with your builder of record and/or HVAC contractor about maintaining the correct relative humidity level in your log home.  

By The Leelanau Log Home Company LLC

www.leelanauloghomes.com 

Log Home Site Planning Basics: Determining the foundation elevation

Have you ever seen a house that sits low in the ground?  It looks like it's sinking and you have to wonder if there are water issues in the basement. 

Part of developing the site plan involves determining the depth of the foundation wall footings in relation to the foundation wall height, terrain, water table level and the final grade.  It's basically a balancing act that factors these elements to get it just right.  Before we dig the hole, we’ll spend a significant amount of time at the building site doing all these calculations to determine the optimal footing depth for the foundation wall.  It’s so crucial to the appearance, performance and overall health of the home.  Since many log homes are built near water or on uneven terrain or both, this challenge becomes even more important when preparing the site plan.  

There are three key areas that we factor when setting the footing depth: 

•          Appearance of the log home with 18-24” of foundation wall showing at final grade.
•          Site water table and if there are hydro-static water pressure issues.
•          Site terrain and final grade on all four sides of the home (water runoff and drainage).

Here are some steps we typically take when working with the foundation contractor.

To determine the water table depth on the building site, we’ll test dig 1-4 holes at least the depth of your basement or crawl space floor and 1-2 holes at least 1-2 feet deeper than the basement or crawl space floor.  Let them sit for 24-48 hours and check them to see if water is in the hole(s), that tells us the water table level.  We’ll measure from the water level to the top of grade to help us calculate footing depth in relation to the foundation wall height and factoring the grade and 18-24” of foundation wall show.  This test also will give us a good idea of the seasonal high water mark based on the time of year of the test. 

Next we’ll meet with the foundation contractor on site prior to the scheduled excavation date to review the overall game plan for site clearing, excavation, location of topsoil pile, seek his opinion on the test hole results, discuss if additional fill sand maybe required and review the our estimated footing depth measurements.

On excavation day we’re there as they dig the foundation hole.  Once the hole is dug for the footings at our pre-determined depth we’ll evaluate the soil conditions (sand is good, clay is bad) and check for water issues if any and if necessary make adjustments to the footing depth.

If there is water or a potential for water issues, we’ll take the necessary steps to insure the foundation will perform properly.  Typically we’ll spec perimeter drain tile around the outside of the foundation at the footings, plus drain tile inside the foundation draining into a sump crock with pump.  We may also spec 6” of pea stone fill inside the foundation under the slab floor which effectively dissipates the hydro-static pressure.  In addition, we may upgrade the foundation wall coating to waterproofing or membrane barriers if there a significant risk of excessive hydro-static water pressure issues.  These steps are inexpensive insurance and will help protect your investment from potential water issues.

Factoring the existing terrain we'll make sure the grade is away from the foundation and we achieve 18-24" of foundation showing with the final grade on all four sides of the home.  This may require additional fill.

Because each new home is unique and presents its own challenges not every foundation site plan will be the same.  We hope this gives you some insight into the many factors used to avoid that sinking log home look. 

By The Leelanau Log Home Company

www.leelanauloghomes.com

Current Leelanau Log Homes Project

Visit our Facebook Page and checkout the current project of The Leelanau Log Home Company.  A 2,900 sq. ft. custom designed log home with half log siding with 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms with finished walkout basement, attached screened porch and detached workshop.  For more photos, click on the link below to see the photo progression of this project.

http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150244002863160.327360.96111723159

By The Leelanau Log Home Company LCC
www.leelanauloghomes.com 

Log Home Site Planning Basics: General

Determining the placement of your new log home on your property is not a casual exercise.  It can be as simple as fitting a rectangle house on a square lot to as complex as finding the best location on 100 acres.  The key in any scenario is to carefully evaluate all the factors that go into developing your site plan so your new home functions well within its surroundings .  Here are some of the key elements you should consider for your site plan:

•          View and view angles
•          Summer and winter solar angles
•       If you already have a design, window locations
•          Driveway approach
•       Relation to other buildings, i.e. detach garages, pole barns, etc.
•          Seasonal wind direction from the North and West
•          Privacy from roads and neighbors
•          Zoning setbacks
•          Utility access and connection paths
•       Potential drainfield constraints
•          Determine which trees you’ll keep for aesthetics and/or for shade
•          Soil conditions
•          Natural terrain
•          Drainage

Typically your log home dealer and/or builder offer this service and will work with you to evaluate all the elements that are specific to your project and assist you in developing your site plan.

Keep in mind that site planning can take an enormous amount of time, forethought and vision.  But the time invested to get it right will be realized every time you pull into the driveway. 

By The Leelanau Log Home Company LLC

www.leelanauloghomes.com

Log Home Construction Basics: Should your builder of choice be local to your project…does geography really matter?

Well that answer is a matter of opinion, but we think it does.  Yes, there are excellent log home builders and general contractors that do travel long distances.  However, we've outlined some distinct benefits to consider by choosing a local log home builder or general contractor (GC). 

1. A local builder/GC is typically on the job-site daily and can answer questions, has the knowledge of the project to make changes, etc.
2. A local builder/GC will have the knowledge of quality subcontractors in the area, such as plumbers, electricians, foundation companies, etc.
3. A local builder/GC will have the knowledge of local sources for products and materials for your project.  Potentially savings to you $$$ with lower transportation costs.
4. A local builder/GC is already home.  Therefore they aren’t charging you for travel, lodging and meal expenses whether it’s a line item in there proposal or included in their labor fees.
5. A local builder/GC will have knowledge of building code requirements for that specific state and/or county of your project.
6. An established local builder/GC will have local projects that you can visit, speak with the owners about their experience and see for yourself the quality level of craftsmanship.
7. Reputation matters, today more than ever.  An established local builder/GC understands that his livelihood depends on the outcome of any project big or small.
8. An important aspect that many homeowners overlook is the builder/GC warranty.  Typically warranties range from 12-18 months from the date on the occupancy permit with a couple of routine service intervals during that warranty period.  But what if there’s an emergency issue(s) that needs immediate action?
9. Staying close to the project timetable is critical for you and your lender.  If the builder/GC of choice has more than one project in progress what impact does that play for your project if there are delays from weather, materials shortages, etc.
10. Supporting your new community by contracting with a local builder is always a good thing.

The bottom line, it’s your home and whom you choose is ultimately up to you.  We hope you find these considerations helpful.

By The Leelanau Log Home Company LLC:  www.leelanauloghomes.com

Log Home Series: Selecting the right log home builder for you

In this series, Selecting the right log home builder for you, we’ll cover tips and suggestions for navigating through this important process.  Time spent doing a thorough job here will pay big dividends and take you steps closer to realizing your dream of living in your custom log home. 

Okay, now you’ve made the decision to build your log or timber frame home, congrats!   But, as with any major purchase you’ll want to do some research and due diligence to insure the builder you’ve selected is right for your project.   This decision needs to be made with the same care and consideration as your choice for log home supplier and financial institution.   Here are some things to consider:

What’s your game plan?

Determine what part you’ll play in the overall construction game plan?  

• Do you want a professional log home builder and/or general contractor to complete a turn-key project?  Do you know the difference between the two? 
•  Are you planning to act as the general contractor and manage the entire construction project?  Check with your lending institution before you decide on this endeavor.  Some lenders will not approve owner- general contractors.
•  Are you planning to do some of the work yourself, if so what elements of the project?  Will the builder of choice be flexible and work with you to make this happen?  Maybe the bigger question…have you budgeted the necessary time to complete the work so you won’t slow down the project?

Whatever role your plan to play in the construction process, we recommend you discuss this topic early in your conversations with prospective log home builders.

Where do I find a log home builder?

Your log home dealer, in many cases, works with local independent log home builders and can refer you.  Or the log home dealer is also a builder and general contractor (like us) and they can sell you the package and present you with a proposal to build it.  Some log home manufacturers also provide construction services, so ask your log home dealer if that’s an option.

Other sources can be the local Home Builders Association, local lumber yards or check the Yellow pages, but keep in mind that can be very limiting.

If you’re not having much luck with the above, go to the internet.  Since most shopping and research is now performed on the internet, Google searching for local log home builders in many cases be your best bet.  Today, it’s probably how you found your log home supplier.  There you may find individual builders and companies, directories and even checkout some of the log home magazine websites.  Take your time and conduct several searches by typing in “log home builders, your city, your state” and experiment with different combinations and evaluate the results.

As you explored the different sources, make sure you make notes and begin to list possible log home builders.

Series:  Selecting the right log home builder for you, future topics:

• Should your builder of choice be local to your project, does geography really matter?
• Don't over shop
• How to research and evaluate your findings
• How to interview log home builders
• The difference between a builder and general contractor
• Why visiting client references is critical
• Get it in writing (proposals and contracts)

By The Leelanau Log Home Company:  www.leelanauloghomes.com