The construction method consists of mounting pre-cut wooden logs horizontally one on top of the other.
In order to increase the solidity of the wall, vertical joints are not permitted in the horizontal rows of logs. Thus, vertical beams (columns) must be placed in the walls at a distance not exceeding 4.88M (16’). As a result, the only vertical joints appearing in the walls are where horizontal logs abut vertical beams, door frames, or window frames.
The logs are edged with "tongue and groove" and dovetailed corners, the optimal woodworking joint. Therefore, the logs interlock one another for a zero tolerance fit. There are no separate pieces of wood between the logs, or anything that might compromise the solidity and durability of the log wall. The chinked look (*white lines between the logs) is available as an option. Logs are available in both flat and “d” shaped profiles.
Once it has been dried, cut and shaped, each log is immersed in a waterproofing solution. This treatment controls swelling, warping, shrinking, and cracking. An optional insecticide treatment is also available.
In order to meet the requirements of several countries, the manufacturer has developed two different approaches, both using its unique logs.
The first version, called “Authentic Original”, is used where a wall which has a heat resistance factor of less than RSI 1,17 / R6.65 (or more than K 0.854) is acceptable.
This first version utilizes (89mm X 241mm (4” X 10”) logs. The water and air proofing between the logs is ensured by the exclusive drip edge of the logs and by the use of a polyester/polyurethane-based strip between each log. This strip expands and contracts with the logs under the most extreme conditions to create a permanent sea. Logs measuring 114mm X 241mm (5” X 10”) are also offered as an option.
The second version, called “Super-Insulated”, is used where the wall heat resistance factor must be higher than RSI 1,17 / R 6.65 (OR LESS THAN K 0.54).
This second version utilizes 64mm X 241mm (3” X 10”) logs covered on the inner side by a weather barrier membrane and by a 38mm X 140mm (2” X 6”) framework. This framework is filled with insulation and covered by a vapor barrier. Finally, a drop siding that has the same profile as the logs is installed as interior finish. In this version, 89mm X 241mm (4”X 10”) or 114mm X 241mm (5” X 10”) logs are offered as an option.
In addition to a superior insulation value, the “Super-Insulated” version has the following advantages:
No movement of the house results from the shrinkage of the logs, because the weight of the house is supported by the framework (the logs are not bearing).
Provides easier and faster installation of electric wiring.
Infinite choice of interior finishes, because the drop siding can be replaced by any kind of finishing material.
So you still have the high thermal mass and beauty of a log wall, with the advantages of a frame-built house. The framework can also be replaced by prefabricated and pre insulated panels. These panels can be raised up to ten times faster than the standard structure, with an optimal result.
FLOORS
As a general rule, the foundations and ground floor structure are completed before the arrival of the kit, so that the erection of the kit can begin immediately.
The upper level floor structure, when required, is usually made of solid wooden beams set every 1.22 meters (4’) and overlaid with pine boards 38mm (2”) thick.
To replace the above described floor system, the manufacturer offers a floor composed of thin joists spaced 400mm (16”) on which a plywood sub floor and a finish floor are laid. The bottom part of the joists should also be covered with a finish to form the ceiling of the ground floor. Engineered composite wood beams can also be used to achieve long spans.
ROOFS
The roof frame of the different types of construction is usually made of trusses, prefabricated in the manufactures workshop. Their design is based on the load they will have to support, as well as dimension limitations for their transportation. Usually, each of the trusses is prefabricated in two sections, which are joined to one another on the construction site with metal fasteners (included). A plywood sheet is then laid on the roof to receive the shingles, metal or other kind of roofing material.
The vertical boards used to cover the outside part of the gables, dormers, cornices and soffits are tongue and grooved.
FLEXIBILITY
The product is extremely flexible. In order to supply house of any dimension, We can develop specifically for your needs a product that can meet any special shape or layout due to local or personal requirements. As the local market has been developed based on custom made houses, the manufacturer has a CAD (Computer Assisted Design) architectural department in order to supply each customer with their own set of custom plans. We can also work with any other plans. In all cases, a cost estimate is given to each customer at no charge.
OPTIONS
The price list is for the shell of the house, because it is important to give each customer the choice of finishing materials. Once your plan is ordered and completed, We can complete the basic kits with modular staircases, doors and windows, greenhouses, roof covering, wood for partitions, flooring etc.
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation costs vary according to the type of goods shipped and the type of transportation chosen. Obviously, our kit packages offer several advantages in this respect: easier handling, lower volume, etc.
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE
In order to take advantage of the fact that the logs are pre-cut at the factory, several “tools” are available to efficiently construct the house in record time and save up to 30% of the market value of the finished house:
Computer coded sheets to assemble the logs. (The logs are numbered according to those sheets).
Complete building guide is provided, giving step-by-step instructions on how to assemble the house, with several illustrations and construction details.
Until you become familiar with our construction techniques, you can hire one of our technicians to assist your local workers.
Within a few weeks notice, we can establish a team of qualified people (engineers, technicians, foremen) capable of planning and constructing any project anywhere in the world.
In order for you to obtain approval from your local authority, we can supply all required technical information, which can be given to architect of your acquaintance.
GUARANTEED QUALITY
The manufacturer’s commercial and residential products comply with the rigorous Canadian Building Code and they are approved by the Canadian Construction Material Center. Furthermore, we will repair or replace any defective or missing material from the kit at no extra charge of either the material or the labour.