Log Home Builders Information Guide

Mechanical work consists of two parts, the rough-in, that begins before all wall framing is hidden behind coverings, and the finishing that is completed near the end of construction.

Plumbing

There is little difference between the plumbing involved in a log home than that in a conventional. There are a few differences to note, that can save both time and money. The plumber generally arrives first as the location of the pipes are restricted. The plumber begins to install the pipe that will be concealed within the walls and starts to hook up bathtubs and showers.

As with conventional houses, handcrafted homes are generally framed in the same manner. Pipes are run through pre-drilled holes in the framing, and supported. Pipe sizes, fixtures and fittings are also similar to those found in conventional construction.

Plumbers must take into account for the settling that occurs in all log homes. Settlement occurs as a direct result of the shrinkage of the logs in the wall system. Settlement takes place due to the moisture in logs when the house is built, species of wood used, as well as other factors. Plumbers therefore need to provide slip joints in all plumbing fixtures.

Once all pipe runs are complete, the plumber then begins to cap all open ends and pressurizes the pipes with air. This is done to check for all potential leaks. An inspection is then done of completed work.

Electrical

The electrician arrives after and begins to string wire to the location of the power source from all outlet and switch boxes.

The power source is usually located in the basement, garage or in a designated utility closet.

Cut-outs are required in the logs for the outlets and switches. This is generally done by the electrical contractor.

Upon completion of his work, an electrical inspector is called in.

The final completion or finishing of your house may take up to 4 to 6 months for an average sized building. The finishing consists of the logs being stained with a good quality finish, masons beginning their work with chimneys, fireplaces etc.

Doors and windows are installed. Fixtures, appliances, interior trim, floor coverings are part of this process.

Building your own log home is an extremely exciting and adventurous prospect, but one that also involves a magnitude of choices, challenges, and decisions. With the popularity of log buildings rapidly growing there is a noted growth in the number of family residences, as well as commercial buildings such as lodges, restaurants, hotels and office complexes being built from log. With this growth log home construction companies must learn to take upon it themselves to do extensive research in the actual performance of their log structures. Those interested in building their own log homes are increasingly asking question relative to the thermal, fire, and wind resistancy of log home construction, as well as complete information of the type of species available.