Log Homes FAQ

Q: How much settling is involved in log walls?

A: This depends on what time of year the logs were cut (which will determine the amount of moisture in the logs) -- if the logs were properly seasoned -- if the notches are done correctly (so there is uniform weight distribution) -- the type of material used -- the size of the logs -- the height of the log walls -- the weight of the roof -- the type of log home involved (saddle-notch, Scandinavian chinkless, butt-and-pass, etc).

In other words, this question is not "nearly" complete enough to answer in a meaningful way.

However (here's the big secret) the method that we primarily recommend to students is not affected by settling at all. So when you cut a window opening you do not need to cut extra space for settling. We know this is hard for students to believe, but it is true. The kit manufacturers don't want you to know about this method because it would eliminate their business.