We know this sounds sort of childish, and some of our students try and skip this step because it doesn't sound all that useful. But if you take this advice to heart and do it, you will be very glad you did. It can save you loads of time, energy, and frustration in the end.
Before you build a log home, you should build a model of it using 1/2" dowels.
Shockingly, there are some very common mistakes that can be corrected by building a model home to try out your design before you spend the time, money and energy to build the real thing. We had one student (who shall remain nameless!) that brought his log home model to one of our monthly meetings to get other builders' opinions on it.
Everyone loved it. His model was a smashing success. Until someone pointed out that his front door was blocked by a ridge pole support log (RPSL). A couple of minor design changes later and the problem was solved. But imagine what would have happened if he had built the log home without first building a model.
There are more uses for your log home model than just correcting mistakes as well. When you are satisfied with your model log home, carry it with you in your car for a while. Bring it into the store with you when you are buying building supplies. You are almost guaranteed to be swamped with questions from employees and other customers about it. Some of our students have been given discounts on their building supplies just because the owner of the store enjoyed talking with them about log homes.
We had another student who reported that he was driving down the road with his scale model when he was pulled over for speeding. After talking with the police officer for a half an hour about log homes, he was let off without a ticket.
In class we will discuss a few more ideas for using your scale model to help advance your log home project. Just remember that building a scale model is a worthwhile exercise.
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