Why build with log?

    Properly built log homes provide an energy efficient, aesthetically pleasing home. Because of the durability of a properly maintained log home (possibly several hundred years), value, as well as warmth and security are retained year after year. Solid timber buildings have also proven to withstand fire better than most conventional structures, and can be more easily restored because the inherent strength in logs is seldom substantially weakened.

What will my log home be built of?

    The typical building material for both walls and roof systems is top quality 14" average diameter, hand-peeled air dried Alberta White Spruce. Other species or sizes can of course be used to accommodate special requirements. All timber off of public lands is reforested on a minimum of a 1 to 1 basis.

What building system does M & H use primarily?

M & H uses the “scribe – fit” method to accomplish a near air tight fit along the length of each log. A shrink fit notch is utilized at all corners. Painstaking joinery is further enhanced by use of modern materials; namely closed-cell gasket materials applied to the inside of the longitudinal "v" groove and corner joinery.

Batt insulation is used in combination with the gasket materials to fill the larger unseen joinery. A measure of control over shrinkage and settling is achieved through the use of threaded rods and compression springs through the full height of all log walls at predetermined intervals.

What roof systems are available for my log home?

    "Post and Beam" log superstructures are typically used to create open beam cathedral ceilings. R-40 insulation is standard in the "box rafter" roof framing in this application. Roof covering is largely determined by choice. For bungalow style homes, conventional "2x4" engineered trusses may be used. For some applications, "the stress skin panel" system is utilized to greatly reduce lockup time. Log truss work is also available.
 

What type of windows and doors should I use?

    Any good quality wood framed unit may be used. As log wall systems "settle", windows and doors are installed inside a "2 x 10 rough buck", and attached to the log work with an angle iron spline. "1 x 6" is used for casing to interior and exterior of windows and doors. Flexible sealers are used to achieve weather tightness.

What type of foundation is suited to a log home?

    Most foundations that would be appropriate for a "stick built" building in your locale should properly support a log building.

How is electrical service installed in a log home?

    Some electrical will be installed in the logwork. This is simply done, as the logwork will arrive on-site with required holes drilled and recesses for boxes precut. Remaining electrical work can be installed in the conventional partitions used to divide room spaces.
   

Is there difficulty with installation of plumbing in a log home?

    Plumbing is usually installed in conventional partitions. How will I heat my home? Any heating system that might be used in a conventional structure may be used in your log home, although radiant hot water systems seem to be particularly well suited to solid timber structures.

What interior decor is appropriate for a log home?

    There is no one theme or style suited to log homes than any other. Cabinetry, floor coverings, window dressings, and furnishings may be as traditional or as contemporary as your tastes permit.
 

What maintenance will my log home require?

    With use of modern finishes to interior woodwork, maintenance is similar to any other type of structure. Exterior maintenance is not unique to log structures, but rather to the wood that is used for exterior applications. Even with these state-of-the-art environmentally friendly finishes, periodic reapplications will be required. However, this is easily accomplished, as these finishes do not have to be removed; simply cleaned and recoated by brushing or spraying.

What is the next step?

    Having viewed the suggested floor plans, you may have found one or more that contain elements that appeal to you. Start to sketch out your ideas on regular graph paper using one square per foot. When you have more clearly defined some of your design requirements, it is then time to call M & H and arrange to discuss your dream home.

What services can M & H Wood Specialties offer me?

    We at M & H can provide design and engineering services, log construction, lock up packages (material and installation) or turn key service. Restoration, refinishing, log furniture, log stairs, handrailing, and cabinetry can also be supplied. We also offer on or off-site construction, and chinked cottage-style structures.