FAQ
Just like everyone else, we had a lot of questions when we first started exploring the idea of building a log home. Below are typical questions we get asked all the time. Yours may be among them! If you have other questions, please or use one of the other contact methods provided on the contact us page..
Q: We like the "D" style log, however what's the most popular profile sold?
A: Nationally the "D" style profile covers 70% of the market.
Q: We've heard that it may be difficult to finance a log home, is this true in your opinion?
A: Historically that statement was true, however financial institutions now have a better understanding of the product and its quality. Consequently financing with a reputable bank or mortgage company is no different than financing a wood-framed structure.
Q: People say that you cannot get insurance coverage for a log home, is this true?
A: Much as with financing, insurance companies are much better educated, and there is no problem obtaining the necessary insurance coverage.
Q: During our research we see that log home companies offer varied packages. What makes Lincoln special from the competition?
A: The Original Lincoln Logs Ltd provides you, the homeowner, with a complete weather tight package which is amongst the most complete on the market. The package contains only reputable brand-named products; this is coupled with their unmatched 100-year warranty, dedication of their entire staff and dealer network and over 27 years business experience.
Q: We are interested about the energy efficiency of a log home. What's the typical "R" value of your log packages?
A: Unlike regular wood framed structure, log homes are rated in "Thermal Mass" as opposed to "R" values. The "Thermal Mass effect" relates to the ability in which heat transfers through the walls of a building is delayed by the wall mass. Logs can store the heat and "reflect" it back into the room. Consequently, the demand for heating or cooling energy to maintain indoor temperature is pushed back.
Q: What does the Lincoln weather tight package comprise of?
A: All the materials necessary to enclose (weather in the home) including but not limited to: Logs, complete roof systems, interior wall partitions, custom windows and exterior doors, log siding for gable ends & 1x9 T&G inside exposed gables and dormers, and hardware to assemble the home.
Q: How do you control water problems when a log checks right through?
A: Lincoln Logs pride themselves in having the heart of the tree in the milled log, therefore the check can only travel as far as the heart and no further.
Q: How does Lincoln address the shrinkage of their logs, and how much can I expect to see?
A: The shrinkage is controlled by a combination of the locking system, drying process and quality of their logs. An allowance of 3/4 inch is made above all windows and doors; this far exceeds expected shrinkage (given all construction directions are complied with).
Q: I plan to have a contractor build my home to a weather tight finish then do the interior myself. How long can I expect the weather tight process to take?
A: Generally speaking a contractor should have your home weather tight within 12 weeks.
Q: I understand that there is more exterior maintenance required on a log home as opposed to a regular wood framed structure, is this true?
A: Exterior maintenance will depend very much on the location and positioning of your home, however assuming you use one of the reputable products on the market, maintenance is no greater than a regular home. Your local Lincoln Logs dealer can advise on a selection of products available.
Q: Can I build on a daylight basement?
A: Lincoln Log homes can be stacked on any foundation including but not limited to, daylight basements.
Q: I love your solariums; can I add them to an existing home?
A: Our solariums are designed to fit with either a new structure or added to existing homes.
Q: You have some wonderful floor plans, however, none meet our requirements.
A: Lincoln Logs specializes through their experienced design team in customizing their packages whether it is developed from one of their existing floor plans or from your thoughts, sketches and dreams.
Q: I live out of state so when I move to your area how do I find contractors and help to build my dream home?
A: As a Dealer for The Original Lincoln Logs Ltd, we have built up a network of contractors/subs and trade specialists to guide you through this process.
Q: I have my land and house plans, can I get a Lincoln Home to fit that plan and location?
A: As part of our responsibility as a Lincoln Logs Dealer we will conduct a site visit with you, offering advice on the style of home you may wish to consider. Utilizing your plans and thoughts Lincoln Logs will provide you with a free custom quote for the home of your dreams.
Q: I worry about running the electrical wiring for my home, can you explain how you do this?
A: During the construction process, logs are drilled and outlets cut for all the electrical requirements in the log walls. We suggest that you only run the required (by code) number of outlets in the log (exterior) walls and then run the rest of your outlets in the interior (standard framed) walls.
Q: We don't like to see the checking on the inside of the home, what if any product do you offer to avoid this?
A: For those home owners who want the "log look" without the checking on the interior, Lincoln logs offer a unique super insulated building method called "Thermo-Home" incorporating all the beauty of solid timber in a super insulated wall structure.
Q: I have a small older log home and want to extend it, can you help?
A: Lincoln Logs specializes in custom, therefore in the majority of cases we can easily custom an extension to an existing floor plan.
Q: If we decide to build a Lincoln home, what as a dealer for the company will you do for us?
A: Our commitment is to be with you from "conception to completion" of your dream log home. Customer service is our specialty.
Q: Are Lincoln Logs kiln dried or air dried?
A: The Original Lincoln Logs has for the past 25 years air dried their logs, it is the more natural way of removing moisture. Air drying reduces the amount of checking in the log whereas kiln dried logs have a tendency to increase the checks because of the rapid forced drying process.
Note: The answers provided to the above questions are the based on the opinions, experience and understanding of the owners of "Pacific Northwest Log Homes," an independent Lincoln Logs Dealership, and should not be treated as an official response from The Original Lincoln Logs Ltd.
For more information, please contact Kevin Russell with Pacific Northwest Log Homes.