Woah, woah, woah, captain… haha! One at a time, and we promise we will get to them all.
While this has been a huge area of recent conversations, the facts remain on the log home side. Hundreds of years of history prove that log homes work, and they work well. But we also have the technical, geeky stuff to throw at you, too.
Proper Construction Makes All The Difference:
With proper construction, log homes are among the most efficient homes available. With improper construction, they can be some of the biggest money pits known to man. As Bo Sparks (our co-founder) would say, “If a log home is built right, you can’t beat it. If not, you can’t heat it.”
We have been brought into situations where energy bills were in excess of $500 per month. After changing HVAC units, adding insulation, and making a few changes to exterior doors and windows, the same home had a bill reduction of over $300 per month. Ask for more details and the complete backstory.
You Must Find An Experienced Log Home Builder:
In order for your home to be built correctly, you have to find a contractor who knows about log home construction. Otherwise, your investment turns into a money pit. Be sure to check with your local building department before starting your search. They often have a list of trusted builders, and hopefully log home builders in your area, who will be able to do the job right the first time. As always, if you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us!
Retirement and The End Goal:
Above all, keep the end goal in mind. It is difficult to retire into your dream log home and at the same time pay for energy bills with a home constructed improperly.
Helpful Links:
Here are a few links to help understand the processes of thermal mass and how it is related to log home construction:
Rob Pickett and Associates has a few very nice (although a bit technical) explanations –
DOE Warms up to Thermal Mass in Log Walls
Comfy Cozy via Log Homes Illustrated July 2007
Inspectapedia.com – Heating and Cooling – R-value and thermal mass