Jack 1.2 on August 11, 2003

Types of Logs

Log homes are most commonly constructed of Eastern white pine, white and red cedar, cypress and white and red oak. Other woods can be used but these are the more common species. Sizes can range from the smaller 6x6 logs to those of more than 12 inches. Usually, logs are more expensive as they become larger.

The shapes of these logs are . . .

	|_)  6x8 inch D log - most common
	|_|  6x8 inch bevel log
	(_)  6x8 or larger double D and round log
	|_\  6x8 inch clapboard style log - exterior resembles siding
	|  | |_|  6x12 inch log commonly seen with chinking groves
	Porch posts are usually 6 x6 inch square or round logs
	Ceiling beams can be 4 x 6 inch square or round logs
	Timber frame home frames are constructed with bents that can be 8 x 8 inch or larger Douglas Fir or other strong woods.

The corner styles in log homes include the following types. They are . . .

	Butt and Pass or Notch and Pass
	Saddle notch
	Dovetail
	Square corner posts

Logs are dried before construction. This is done by air for months or kiln dried over several weeks. Kiln drying brings the moisture content of the logs or cants down rapidly to that recommended in the construction industry. And yes, in moist climates, logs can pick up moisture from them air.

See the link below for more information about shapes, corner styles and drying. The catalog, available for $4.00 includes shipping, contains nice photos of these style logs and corners.

See The Wildcat [open floor plan] at Smith Mountain Lake.

In these issues, we cover topics like types of logs, material packages, construction, cost estimates, maintenance, bugs, roof systems, foundations, and more.

Have a question . . . Please feel free to email questions to me and I will answer them in future issues - using only your initials, of course.

If you wish to be removed from this mailing and future mailings related to Log Homes and Log Home Workshops for Realtors, Send an email to info@loghomesbyjack.com with the notation of Remove me from your log home email list.

Please share this email with your colleagues. To be added to this email distribution list, Send an email to info@loghomesbyjack.com with the notation of Add me to your log home email list.