Random DIY Tip:
If you have more than one person setting logs at the same time, know that the burly 200+ pound guys [and girls] will probably drive the screws in more forcefully than a 150 pound guy or girl. So, rotate the log wall workers so they are not working on the same log section all the time. This prevents differing height problems of the wall sections when you get to the last few rows.
How can I reduce the cost of my log home?
by
Jack Hutslar
Log Home Dealer since 2001
In recent times, the turnkey construction costs for your cabin or castle keeps going up and up. Here are a few suggestion for how to economize.
Consider this!
Today, some building materials fluctuate on a daily basis. This makes it extremely difficult for contractors, usually small businesses, to cover these added costs and stay in business. However, our material package prices have not escalated like the other conventional materials. That is where we are in our industry right now. We do not see any immediate relief any time soon according to the managers at Honest Abe Log Homes. They are my long time material provider. Will materials get more expensive as time moves on? We do not know.
Basically, contractors are accustomed to giving turnkey pricing with allowances for some items in their “quotes” like fire places, appliances and flooring. These are their estimates, not the actual costs. Then you, the buyer, can select items that fit the allowance or you can go over those allowances. Your preference in a metal roof or a fireplace might cost more than their allowance. You pay for the added price difference.
Here are examples of other cost savings, whether to your loan or saving account.
First, the material package options that you select can move your total cost cost up or down. For instance, 6x8 D logs are less expensive than 8x8 or 6x12 logs not to mention our 10 inch round Swedish cope logs.
A crawl space is less expensive than a basement. That also applies to a short or long driveway, rough gravel, crush and run, blacktop or cement.
Standard windows and doors are less expensive than the upgrade premium wood or clad versions.
A truss roof system is less expensive than our highly popular heavy timber exposed beam roof system.
Note that additional savings can be achieved when you buy appliances, toilets, sinks, fans and fixtures when you find themat good discounts. Then store them until needed. Free storage trumps paid storage.
This also applies to unfinished kitchen systems. In this instance, the kitchen can be laid out to fit the discounted materials that you may find. If you have a free storage place like a garage or barn, that is more savings.
Finally, other cost cutting options is to do some of the work yourself with the help of “handy” friends and relatives. Staining the inside and outside, putting down flooring and cabinets are good examples of this.
We are in unusual financial times right now. Plan ahead. Know what you are being sold. Shop wisely.
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In the April 2024 Honest Abe Living, enjoy the following articles:https://www.honestabe.com/honest-abe-living/honest-abe-living-april-2024/
1. Timeless Design - four very different Honest Abe Homes designs that have stood the test of time
2. Making a House a Home – Designer Molly Cooper offers advice on making a new house feel like home.
3. Escape to a Small Town – South Florida couple build log forever home near an historic Tennessee town
4. Earth Day 2024 – explore the sustainable living options that harmonize with the environment offered by log, timber and SIP homes.
5. Teslia Timber Frame Video Home Tour – explore the sustainable living options that harmonize with the environment offered by log, timber and SIP homes.
6. Worth 1,000 Words – Honest Abe has a gallery showcasing thousands of photos of customers’ homes and other structures. Relax and enjoy!
7.Turkey Pickle Pinwheels – April Patterson's cooking show, Honest Abe Living In The Kitchen, features Turkey Pickle Pinwheels
8. DeSocio II – Take a video tour and download the floor plan for one of our favorite customer-designed homes.
This is Jack Hutslar, your VA and NC log home dealer for Honest Abe Log Homes. We also work with people in any underserved area. I have been a log home dealer since 2001. It would be nice to meet with you and go over your plans, ideas, questions, budget and timetable plus construction needs.
Find the most up to date information on Facebook at LogHomesByJack.com and Jack Hutslar.
Contact Jack@LogHomesByJack.com at 800-767-4916 or 336-407-2157 [m]
