Energy Efficiency of Log Homes

One of the common concerns that most people have is the R- Factor and how energy efficient log homes can be. Typically with the structures that we build the log walls will be equivalent to conventional homes with an R-Factor of 20. The minimum thickness for log walls allowed for construction by the Ontario Building Code Standards is 6" (our product line consists of 6", 8" or 10"). One must remember that the logs because of their solid thermal mass provide a superior thermal resistance to temperature change, this must also be taken into consideration along with the R-Factor. Translated this means that during the winter months it takes less energy to heat a log home in comparison to a conventionally constructed insulated home, the same is also true for the summer months because of it requiring extremely long periods of time for the outside temperatures to affect the inside climate of the log home. Hence, it is very rare to see a log home which requires any air conditioning means.

Pre-Drilled Logs for Electrical

One of the things that we do during the manufacturing stage of the log homes, which is done at our facility, is pre-drill all of the logs for all of the electrical rough-ins. During the design stage and prior to going to blueprints we consult with the client and determine all of the electrical requirements needed for the home. This includes the locations of all receptacles, coach lights, wall sconces, ceiling fixtures and switches. If requested, we can also pre-drill the logs for security systems. When faced with manufacturing a log building that will be used for commercial purposes, we also pre-drill the logs in our factory for all of the fire alarm system hookups. By doing all of this prep in an enclosed environment, this allows for a more problem free and efficient process. By doing so, we can better quality control the process and eliminate problems, which may occur, by trying to drill the logs while on a construction jobsite, which would not only delay and slow down the assembly of the logs but may create faults or mistakes.

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