The first visit or two with the client is to determine why the client wants logs vs. a stick built home, and then to what type and size of logs they wish for their home.  Next, we get them acquainted with the logs that we typically use and why we use them.  Factors that affect the species of wood chosen are geographic location of the home, type of home being built - for example vacation home or primary residence, budget allowed, and size of logs desired.

     Years ago we have chosen to pretty much stay with the New England Spruce or the Lodgepole Pine for our log homes.  These are the two species of wood that really work well in this country because of their resistance to rot, their excellent thermal value, and their flexibility - the ability to move as the home settles.

     We require that the logs be dried standing before it is cut.  The reason for that is basically to allow the sap within that tree to drain through its natural channels and be out of the tree before it is cut.  If the sap is not drained from all the veins and capillaries of the tree, it fills up all of the insulation channels of the tree and significantly decreases the thermal value of the tree.  We prefer not to use the hard, dense trees such as the Oak and Southern Yellow Pine because the density significantly decreases the thermal value.  As each log is cut, the moisture content varies, so each log must be seasoned until the moisture content is no greater than 20 or 21% to prevent settling and shrinking that would occur if the logs were not of uniform moisture. 

     All of Timberline's log styles are pre-cut and pre-manufactured. The logs, whether round, square or rectangular, have been milled by machines to conform to a uniform shape or thickness.   Then each log is hand-milled to return its natural look. 

     By using a complete set of construction drawings and computer-aided drafting, each log wall of the structure is mapped out log by log and course by course. Window and door sizes and locations as well as interior partition and notch locations are pre-determined and each log wall is designed accordingly. This system cuts down on waste and on-site assembly time. The log wall layout acts as a map with each log numbered and tagged accordingly.