Basic Log Home Package

At Minde Log Construction, Inc. we go to great lengths to ensure that we provide the highest quality and most complete log shell package on the market.   From the way we scribe and cut the logs so that we control checking and ensure less future maintenance, to the little details like sanding log ends and cutting in flooring grooves, we complete everything.

The following is a list of what is included in our log shell packages.

Hand peeled white pine or red pine logs no smaller than 10" at the tip at 40'.  Our average size log is approximately 18" to 20" DBH (diameter at breast height) tapering down to a 12" tip.  We use full-length logs so there are no splices in the middle of the walls.  We have access to logs that are 32" DBH and also other species of logs.

  1. All logs treated with Penetreat then either Log Keeper or TimberTec.
  2. Log shell set up on owner's foundation, ready for roof decking. Even though all the log work has been completed at the log yard, it still takes the crew an average of sixty hours to set up the average log home.
  3. All window and door openings cut with keyways for settling. We calculate the amount of settling required and cut each opening accordingly. We bevel the logs at the openings and sand these cuts to give a clean, finished look.
  4. Lateral notches will be over scribed double scribe with closed cell foam and cellulose insulation.
  5. Corner notches will be scarf notches with a mousetrap cut in the exterior. The lateral notches will actually have a gap at the time of construction, which will cup during the first year. This gap is sealed by the foam, but is essential to keep the corners tight. The scarf notch by itself is not enough to keep the corners tight. Corner notches are not just aesthetically pleasing; they are a structural necessity. If a log builder builds the log home tight at the log yard, the comers will open up over time as the logs shrink because the scarf notch can not keep up with the shrinkage.  This is not only irritating because the comers must then be caulked, but it tells the homeowner that there is no weight on the corners and thus no structural integrity.
  6. Loft log floor joists with groove for flooring in wall logs.
  7. Log stairway with railings to loft. We mortise all our stair treads into the log stringers for the strongest, most maintenance free stairway.  We calculate the amount of shrinkage that will take place between the loft floor and the main floor and build the stairway to slide on the main floor and self adjust as the house settles.
  8. Log trusses for roof system. We build mitered trusses, which are strong as well as they are handsome.
  9. Ridge-Pole and purlins cut to proper angle.
  10. Holes drilled for wiring and receptacle box holes cut in, with flats for faceplates.
  11. Interior log walls as called for.
  12. All cuts sanded.
  13. Interior stud wall connections cut in.
  14. Free consultation with all other subcontractors.

Our current prices are roughly $45 per square foot for the basic log shell; $90 per square foot for a weather tight shell; and $130 per square foot and up for a turnkey home. These are just rough prices but they will help you determine the square footage for your budget.  Once you have blueprints, we can give you an accurate estimate.  Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.

Notches
A variety of notches are used in the building of a hand-crafted log home. Each has a specific purpose. Tight fitting notches add to the quality of the home by illustrating the precise craftsmanship it takes to build a hand-crafted log structure.