MYTH 1: Settling is a problem
Logs are alive. They breathe, shrink and settle down. The amount of movement depends on the moisture content of the wood, the weight on the walls and the house environment. Experienced log home designers are aware of this and, once understood, can be anticipated and accommodated in the detailed design.
MYTH 2: Splits or checks weaken the house
Cracks or checks frequently develop in the length of a log. These do not affect the structural performance of the walls but stress relieving cuts should be made in each log to ensure that significant splits occur where intended.
MYTH 3: Log homes cost more than conventional timber-frame houses
Log home construction is competitive with timber-frame buildings, but log homes are individual, frequently one-off designs and offer the possibility of dramatic features, including cathedral ceilings, bespoke entrances/portes cocheres and artform staircases.
MYTH 4: Log homes are less energy efficient than timber-frame buildings
According to conventional standards, the higher the K-value the better. Because logs absorb and store heat, they have a relatively low K-value. However, it is now accepted that the heating efficiency of a log wall is also concerned with its thermal mass, not simply the K-value. It is proven that log walls with a K-value 44% lower than for timber-frame walls are equally energy efficient. The most important factor, however, is the air tightness of the wall.
MYTH 5: Log homes present a greater fire risk than other forms of construction
Because log homes are made of wood and wood is combustible, there is a tendency to believe that they are more vulnerable to fire. However, the truth is that a massive log wall will not ignite as easily as a light timber framework. To accord with Building Standards, the internal wall surfaces are coated with a liquid flame retardant that provides Class 1 or Class O rating for spread of flames. Even in severe fires the interior of the timber is protected by a layer of charcoal that forms on its surface and this increases the safe loadbearing characteristics of the timber for a prolonged time.
