Our search for the perfect log home company created more questions every time our questions were answered. What it really comes down to is choose what you like based on what you can afford. But choose wisely. Here are the top five things to look for.

1. QUALITY

• What process has been used to dry the logs?
• Air-Dried: Air drying reduces the amount of moisture naturally allowing the log to retain its integrity with fewer and less excessive checks.
• Kiln-Dried: Kiln drying reduces the amount of moisture very quickly causing the log to have a tendency to have excessive checks.
• Standing Dead: Standing dead allows the logs to dry in their natural state. This process is generally used for larger logs.
• What fabrication process do you like and are you able to afford?
• Handcrafted homes are generally constructed at the log yard, disassembled and then recreated at your job site.
• Manufactured or milled homes are milled to your specific dimensions and assembled at your job site.
• Half-log or panel homes are conventional 2"x4" or 2"x 6" framed homes wrapped in half-log. The panels are assembled at your job site. It is difficult to distinguish a panel log home from a genuine log home.
• Timber frame and post and beam homes are a combination of timbers and conventional building materials.
• How much is the settling and is there anything you need to do as your home is settling? Some log systems settle a minimal amount over the lifetime of the log system. Others may settle as much as 6"-8".

2. QUANTITY

• What is included in the package? It is important to know what will be included in your "package". A package may be $40,000 or $100,000 for a 2,000 square foot home, but what will it include? Is it just the logs, everything you will need to construct a weather-tight shell, or something in-between? Know what you are paying for.
• What is not included? What else will you need to shop for?
• Where do the logs come from, how are they shipped, and what is the shipping fee? Remember the cost for free is included somewhere in your cost.

3. SERVICE

• How long has the log company been in business?
• What is the reputation of the log company? Check with the Better Business Bureau or the Attorney General of the state you will be building in.
• Is there a representative close to you to help when things don't go just right? What are the responsibilities of the representative?
• Ask the representatives what makes their company special and why should you buy their product over their competitor.
• Request references from previous clients and then be diligent about talking with them.

4. WARRANTY

• Does the log system have a warranty?
• How long is the warranty and what does it cover?
• Is the warranty transferable?
• How will material shortages be handled?

5. BLUEPRINTS

• Is drafting for your project included or is there a separate charge?
• If you are building in an area that must meet earthquake, hurricane, or tornado standards, is engineering included for these issues?
• If you are building in high altitudes, is engineering included for heavy snow loads? Is there an additional fee for these services?
• Will your plans be stamped or wet-sealed by a licensed architect or engineer ready to be approved by your city or county for permits? If not, will the log company or their representative make those arrangements?
• Is there a charge for changes to your plans if it does not pass the city or county permit process?

We wish you happy and peaceful log home shopping and learning. If you have further questions, feel free to contact us at 760-765-1117 or e-mail us.