Log cabins are a popular building choice and complement all landscapes, especially those settings that are known for rusticity and pristine wildlife. The key component that affects the look, structure and quality of all types of cabins is the type of log used for building. It is important to know the basic information about what goes into the building of your future home. There is not only one type of log that is used for constructing these types of abodes and each gives the house a distinct appearance.
GREEN LOGS
When using green logs you will be using logs that have been cut from the forest. They are then brought to a construction yard, where the bark is stripped. Logs are considered to be "green" if they have not been dried out in a kiln, nor air dried. The amount of moisture left in green logs varies from twenty to ninety percent. The level of moisture depends on the species of tree, the time of year it was cut and whether sapwood or heartwood is measured.
AIR DRIED LOGS
One way log companies let their freshly cut logs dry is by allowing them to remain outdoors once they have been cut. This is a natural way of drying out the timber. Since there are usually many logs drying at one time they are stacked with spacers to allow for more room. Time and space are a requirement, as it takes up to several years and a great deal of room is needed for the process to work effectively.
KILN DRIED LOGS
Due to the fact that air drying logs takes quite a bit of time, many log companies prefer the option of using a kiln to dry the timber in an artificial manner. When placing the logs in large kilns the moisture is removed. The drying process can be completed in as little as a few weeks. It is crucial that the kilns be monitored closely, so as to avoid cracking in the timber. The moisture level range is between eighteen and twenty percent, significantly lower than air dried logs.
These logs serve as the foundation and building blocks for your future home and affect the finished look. The process of cutting, stripping and drying the logs is a fascinating one. No matter the type of log, when they are freshly cut there will be a certain level of moisture. How the moisture is removed for the most part and the amount that remains is what sets the types of logs apart from one another.
Author Resource:-
Vivian Miller is the owner of Ashe High Country Realty, a firm seasoned in selling NC Mountain Cabins including those for retirement, 1031 tax exchanges, or rent. Her long term experience and strong ties in the North Carolina Mountains has helped thousands of buyers discover the magical Blue Ridge Mountains.
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