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Blog Cabin WEB EXTRA: Log Cabin Primer Fourteen essential things you should consider before you commit to building or buying a log home of your own. From "Blog Cabin" episode DBLG-101

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11. Plate Logs

Plate logs, which should be made of straight grained logs, are those that are at the top of each wall. The roof frames rests on these. Because they are prone to twisting, special precautions must be taken to firmly secure plate logs.

"Square notches and lock notches can provide restraint, as can any number of methods using bolts, threaded rod, and pegs," according to the construction standards of The International Log Builders' Association. It's also a good idea to permanently seal ceiling vapor retardant to the plate logs.

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12. Fireplaces

The rule of thumb when it comes to constructing your fireplace is that no combustible materials should be closer than two inches to a masonry chimney. That includes the log walls.

You also have to make adjustments for settling. As the log structure settles, the roof will lose elevation while the chimney stays at the same height. Make sure there is enough flashing to protect against water and weather even after the structure has fully settled.

13. Log Walls

There are, of course, several materials standards to follow as you construct the walls of your log home.

Basically, you can use green or dry logs, though be aware of their different structural properties and shrinkage expectations. Your plans will have to address that right at the top. Also, make sure you are aware of the grains of the wall logs, with particular attention to recommendations for using green logs. And remember, all your wall logs must be at least eight inches in diameter. Lastly, strip the bark off to help prevent insect infestation.

14. Log Extensions

These are the parts of logs that extend beyond notched corners and are often called "log overhangs" or "flyways." If they are very long and not protected by roof overhang, they are prone to decay. If they are too short they are prone to cracking.

Interior log extensions are those that project inside a building, and exterior log extensions extend towards the outside of a building. The stability of a dovetail corner does not depend upon log extensions, and is not susceptible to having wood split off, and so is exempt from any minimum length requirement.

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