Timber Engineering Europe Ltd.
LOG Homes - Questions & Answers:
- Do the logs move once the house is built?
- I was told that gaps appear between the logs after a while - is this true?
- Are all your designs standard?
- What is the largest size you can supply?
- How are the internal walls finished?
- Do the self-build kits have instructions with them?
- Do I need insulation for the walls?
- Are fuel bills lower in Log Homes than traditional buildings?
- Aren't they dangerous in fires?
- Will Termites attack log homes?
- What is your TRIPLE SYSTEM
- I have been told that I don't need planning permission for a log house - is this true?
Do the logs move once the house is built?
Raw timbers do move quite considerably, but we use a laminated log that prevents any twisting and warping.
go TopI was told that gaps appear between the logs after a while - is this true?
Yes it is true. Our systems have "through-bolts" installed to tension the logs until they have settled permanently and this prevents any "gapping" or uneven movement of the building prior to settling.
go TopAre all your designs standard?
We have standard range of homes that can be adapted to suit your taste or we can manufacture and erect your own bespoke design. We can help you to decide on finish, sizes and room layouts.
go TopWhat is the largest size you can supply?
Any size you like, there are no limits on house or room sizes.
go TopHow are the internal walls finished?
You decide! You can have traditional log walls rounded or flat, plasterboard, cladding or anything else that you specify.
go TopDo the self-build kits have instructions with them?
Yes, basic instructions are issued with each self-build kit and our engineers are available to assist you throughout the construction process in Europe. We can also arrange for a site engineer to be present when you start.
go TopDo I need insulation for the walls?
No you don't - the timbers are a natural insulation and a very low carbon emission building material. They are very comfortable in temperatures of -10 deg C in Northern Canada and they also prevent heat entering the interior in hotter climates so they are just as comfortable at 34 deg C in Europe. We do recommend that the internal dividing walls are lined with acoustic insulation.
go TopAre fuel bills lower in Log Homes than traditional buildings?
Yes, definitely you can rely on around a 30% saving on your fuel bills annually.
go TopAren't they dangerous in fires?
This is a very complex question but timber performs much better under fire conditions than steel or masonry which weaken very quickly in fire causing early collapse, timber chars and its integrity remains for a much longer period than any other construction material See more in Articles - Fire Resistance
go TopWill Termites attack log homes?
Wood-boring insects can attack any wood anytime indoors or out. Termites are ground dwelling insects that survive on a cellulosic diet and will eat anything that contains cellulose, including old timber, debris, paper or carpets. If your home is detailed correctly, termites are unlikely to be a problem See more in Articles - Insect Attack
go TopWhat is your TRIPLE SYSTEM
All our logs are joined with a unique triple tongue & groove system along with 2 rows of gaskets. The notches and ends are waxed.
go TopI have been told that I don't need planning permission for a log house - is this true?
No this is not the case. Log homes are classed as permanent dwellings and require exactly the same licences and must comply to all the relevant building codes. Some countries MAY consider allowing a log home to be erected under special circumstances without full planning, but you should always check with you local building and planning department before building ANY type of dwelling.
go Top