Frequently Asked Questions

What type of log homes does Paradise Mountain Log Homes provide?

Paradise Mountain Log & Timber Frame Homes are proudly providing the finest Handcrafted, Scandinavian Full-Scribe method since 1978. Each log is hand peeled, hand-scribed utilizing the Scandinavian full scribe with the Canadian Lock Notch corner. Each log is fitted to the next, with no visible butt joints are also building the Timber Frame and Post & Beam style homes, cabins and buildings.

What type of log is used, and how are they dried?

Our handcrafted log & timber homes are built primarily with Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar logs.  Douglas Fir is a very tight grained and light in color log and known for its strength and minimal taper. The logs we use are an average of 12-20 inches mean diameter and are winter harvested when the sap is down. The logs are then air-dried through the year to a moisture content of 19 percent or less. As a further measure of quality, over 95 percent of our timber meets the highest premium grade standard of the Timber Products Inspection Agency.

Are log homes efficient, how are costs?

Our handcrafted log & timber frame homes and cabins are cool in the summer and warm in the winter. This is because of the size of the logs used, or the thermal mass. For example, an 8 in. milled log home has a lot less mass or cellular structure, compared to a 12 to 16 in. log. Using the envelope calculation method for R-equivalency when finished a recommended, have an approximate R value of R30+, with the roof and floors insulated with R38 fiberglass.

Can I design my own log house and, do you do custom design?

Almost 90% of Paradise Mountain Log Homes are custom designed. You can save valuable time & cost using our professional design, drafting and architectural team. Each plan however, has to go through the Structural Engineering process after the plans are completed. All plans have to be engineered to site-specific and required by all counties in order for your Building Permit to be issued.

Are log homes difficult to maintain?

Of course we can’t endorse all log homes, but we at Paradise Mountain Log Homes feel that if our blueprints and building practices are followed along with the right stains and sealers your log home will last for generations.

How difficult is it to finish a log home?

In our blueprints we provide complete details to aid the contractor along with a free consultation with technical assistance as needed. We make our log packages very builder friendly. In short, we service what we sell.

Can I erect my Paradise Mountain Log Home?

Yes you can. We would include the log smith and
you will need a 5 man crew with two of them being experienced Carpenters/Framers. You would also be responsible for the crane with an operator. Or if you prefer, we can provide the set-up crew and the crane.

What does my Handcrafted Paradise Mountain Log Home provide?

The complete log package contains all of the following:

  • 12” – 14”mean diameter is the standard log size and larger diameter is available. Building the Handcrafted, Scandinavian Full-Scribe logs with Canadian Lock Notch corners. It comes with a complete set of set-up plans to refer to while the re-stacking of the logs. Everything is numbered and lettered for easy reference.
  • Log floor joists
  • Log ridgebeam and purlins for your complete log roof system pitch cut & ready to accept framing
  • Support posts
  • Doors & windows are pre-cut and keyed
  • Thru-bolts on all corners & wall stiffening pilasters
  • Handcrafted, mortise & tenon log stairs & interior railing for stair & loft.
  • Complete custom drawings
  • Qualified log home set-up crew for re-erection
  • Please see our Log Package page for a complete list of what is included in a Paradise Mountain Log Home.
Do you provide free estimates?

Yes, we provide free estimates. We would need a sketch with dimensions and if you had a look of what you are wanting is always helpful. Also, any design you see “out there” that you like we can give you an estimate on that and we can also re-draw it making any changes to fit your needs. Good advice- Do not choose your log home company for a design/plan that they have. Choose the company for the style of log work that you are wanting and then have them draw/design your plans.

What is the average cost per square foot to build a handcrafted Paradise Mountain Log Home?

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The average cost on our log shell packages range from $65 – $75+ per square foot for the average homes and higher depending on the complexity of the design, number of corners and roof system and delivery destination, delivered and installed. Logs that are larger in diameter, 14” – 16” mean diameter or Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar add to the cost per square foot. Please contact us so we can provide a more detailed quote.

Our Timber Frame House package ranges from $55 to $65 per square foot. This also includes a prefabricated stick-frame exterior wall panels per plan. Comprising of 2×6 SPF studs and ½” standard SPF plywood (exterior side of studs), not insulated.

How are electrical and plumbing installed in a Handcrafted log home?

Since your log home has a 9 1/2″ deep or 2×10 framed floor system built over the second story log floor joist there is plenty of room for all plumbing and wiring. The bathrooms do not have to be stacked as in the old days. Also, there is ample room for HVAC. Also including, notching out for electrical boxes and flatten logs for the cover plates and drilling vertical chase holes for the wires. The amount depends on the plan.

Contact us today to get started on building your dream home!

Call us at 1-800-840-LOGS (5647) or contact us online today!