ComputerHunter.org

 

Log Homes - Whats Different About Log Homes?


Newcomers to the world of log homes will notice that log homes look different than conventional "stick-built" homes. But are log homes really different, other than in appearance? If so, how?

Let's take a look at some of the ways in which log homes differ from conventional homes.

Log Walls - This is the main difference. Instead of walls constructed of 2x4 or 2x6 framing lumber, packed with insulation, covered on the outside with with sheathing, moisture barrier, and siding, and on the inside with sheetrock and paint, log homes simply have solid log walls. The logs act as their own thermal and weather barrier, as well as being the primary load-bearing structure in the house.

Style - Although log homes can be built in practically any style, most log home owners prefer the traditional "cabin" or "lodge" style. This style is often distinguished by such features as wood flooring, wood interior, stone fireplace and chimney, porch, loft, rustic staircase, open floorplan, raised-seam metal roof, cathedral ceilings, and exposed interior beams.

Maintenance - Conventional home exteriors typically need to be washed, repaired, and painted every few years. Log homes are similar except that, instead of paint, they require a preservative stain combined with a treatment to prevent insect damage. As with any home, log walls must be protected from excessive moisture.

Utilities - Since many log homes are built in rural or mountain locations, some standard utility services may not available. Often, log homes use propane gas, water wells/pumps, and septic waste systems.

Cost - Log homes typically cost 10%-30% more than a similar conventionally-built "spec" home primarily because most log homes are custom-built with unique features. However, there are many ways in which costs can be eliminated or reduced.

Financing - Construction loans for log homes are usually different that those for conventional homes, primarily because log home "kit" providers want to be paid up front, and getting comparable appraisals can be somewhat difficult. Therefore, some banks and mortgage companies don't like to finance log homes. This may mean a little more legwork to find a cooperative bank or a mortgage company that specializes in log home loans.

Al Hearn is owner and operator of http://www.LogHomeAdvisor.com, a web site for log home enthusiasts that provides information and advice about planning and building log homes.







Google News - Top Stories

Sydney Morning Herald

Obama Tilts to Center, Inviting a Clash of Ideas
New York Times - 4 hours ago
By DAVID E. SANGER WASHINGTON - President-elect Barack Obama won the Democratic nomination with the enthusiastic support of the left wing of his party, fueled by his vehement opposition to the decision to invade Iraq and by one of the most liberal ...
Obama taps Geithner, Summers for top economic jobs Reuters
Obama economic team starts to take shape CNN
The Sun Daily - Atlanta Journal Constitution - CNNMoney.com - The Associated Press
all 3,018 news articles


FOXNews

Obama sends strong signals from the sidelines
Los Angeles Times - 1 hour ago
The president-elect looks to reassure the financial markets and the public with swift Cabinet appointments and aggressive policy plans.
Video: Obama Outlines Job Creation Plan AssociatedPress
Obama proposes bigger, greener economic stimulus plan San Jose Mercury News
Chicago Tribune - Washington Post - TheNewsTribune.com - Kansas City Star
all 1,316 news articles


Seattle Post Intelligencer

Oklahoma Dominates, Scrambling Title Races
New York Times - 3 hours ago
John A. Bowersmith/Lubbock Avalanche-Journal, via AP Oklahoma’s punter, Mike Knall, and fans in the stands celebrate the Sooner’s 65-21 victory over Texas Tech on Saturday.
Sooners' intensity overwhelms Texas Tech FOXSports.com
Top-25 College Football Game Capsules Sports Network
Philadelphia Inquirer - ESPN - Fort Worth Star Telegram - Dallas Morning News
all 1,266 news articles


WELT ONLINE

Obama puts Osama off his game Clarence Page
Chicago Tribune - 1 hour ago
Having a last name that sounds like Al Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden's first name has never been a political plus for Barack Obama.
US Muslim leaders denounce al Qaeda's slur toward Obama CNN International
Zawahiri's desperate diss Boston Globe
Atlanta Journal Constitution - Washington Times - New York Times - Washington Post
all 1,444 news articles


Washington Post

Curtain call for Bush as trade summit wraps
AFP - 1 hour ago
LIMA (AFP) - Asia-Pacific leaders on Sunday were to wrap up a summit in which they vowed a united front against the world finance crisis but with bold initiatives looking unlikely to emerge before the meeting adjourned.
Video: Bush Urges Countries to Avoid Protectionism AssociatedPress
President Looks Back in Goodbye From Peru New York Times
Voice of America - CNN International - Orlando Sentinel - BBC News
all 2,559 news articles

Google
 

Copyright © 2006 Computer Hunter - A Division of Arthur´s Job Base