Heritage Log Works, Colorado Log Homes, Log Cabins, Handcrafted Log Homes

Straight Talk About Frequently Asked Questions

The following answers to FAQs are based on my experience as a general contractor in Pagosa Springs. Unlike a sales representative, or someone new and unfamiliar to our area, I have been in the TURNKEY construction of dozens and dozens of log homes locally since 1989. If you have a question that is not answered below, please go to the contact us page and I will be happy to respond.

The Answers!!!

Without question, DRY LOGS perform best in our low humidity climate. "GOT DRY?" Many kiln drying processes only surface dry the logs. Logs shipped from high humidity areas generally contain a higher moisture content.
ALL logs shrink or compress. Make provisions for that! Green logs can shrink 1 inch per foot. OUCH!!
Even logs that do not "require" chinking SHOULD be chinked or caulked. The efficiency of a logs thermal mass is compromised with air infiltration. Water infiltration can be worse. Seal every joint!
Milled logs ARE NOT always considerably less expensive than handcrafted when you consider the time and labor costs to assemble. (nor do they appraise as high.) Handcrafted Log Home Packages include a great deal of labor.
Full length logs are better for several reasons. Structural integrity and air infiltration are two, not seeing "butt" joints makes three.
Log companies manufacture and supply LOGS. Buying your framing material, windows, trim, etc. from the appropriate supplier insures quality control, timing and the proper warranty if applicable. Besides, having two semis of building materials show up at the site on Day One is a nightmare for the builder and will cost you money in time, waste, quality and aggravation.
Locally, expect a well constructed home to cost you $150 per square foot and up. There are many ways to meet your budget, including walkout basements for additional lower cost space, simpified design characteristics, or building a smaller home–to name a few. Talk to your qualified contractor BEFORE you start planning. Don't sacrifice quality of features that are really important to you.
Custom designed homes can actualy cost LESS to build than a standard plan. (See our floor plans page.)
Selection of finish items, such as windows, stain products, etc, are a function of quality, application and price. Use the highest quality items you can afford–nd then some. Pennies saved today could mean dollars spent tomorrow.