Lasko School of Log Building, Inc.
8125 Whiteland Road, Martinsville, IN 46151 1 317 690-2325
"Making Traditional Log Building Craftsmanship The Focus of Your Future"
Curriculum for 12 week The Professional Log Builder Training Program
I. Objectives
The objectives of the 12 week Log Builder Program are (1) to prepare students to seek a career in the log building industry and have a full understanding of the traditions and requisite skills required. Graduates will possess an understanding of the craft of (2) building with logs from scratch, (3) demonstrate a high level of competence with the tools and handcrafted methodologies, (4) will be aware of the nature and implications of past and current practices in the log building industry, (5) will understand and be able to apply log building skills to perform Log Home Care Services. Students will be able to apply their knowledge and skills to a personal project, employment opportunity or starting a small business.
II. Introduction and Student Orientation
A. Introductions-Staff and ParticipantsB. FacilitiesC. Log Building Text Book Issued and Introduced D. History of the Craft of Log Building E. Identifying Types of Chain Saws & Their Uses F. Log Building ToolsG. Site/Building Yard TourH. Text Book IntroductionIII. Safety
A. Accident and First Aid ProceduresB. Chainsaw SafetyC. Soren Erickson’s Game of Logging IntroD. Worker and Site Safety IssuesE. Safe Saw StartingF. Safe Operation, Wise Care and Use of Chainsaws IV. Chain Saw Care & Maintenance
A. Chain Sharpening1. Manual 2. Use of Power Sharpening Equipment B. Chain, Chain Saw & Bar Maintenance / Care C. Making Your Own Chain Loops from Bulk Rolls of ChainV. Log Acquisition
A. Cooperation with ForestersB. Indiana Licensed Timber Buyer ProgramC. Timber Cruising & Tree Marking Methods D. Purchasing Logs1. Market Prices2. Supplier Searches3. Contracting4. Transporting LogsVI. Log Grading & Certification Systems
A. Storage of LogsB. Peeling / Debarking of Logs1. Demonstration & Discussion2. Safety Issues 3. By Drawknives4. By Water Pressure5. By Bark Spuds6. All Participants Peel Logs for Use in Class ProjectC. Automated Log Peeling SystemsD. Use of Log Lifting Equipment & Log Damage Control1. Safety Issues2. Use of Belts3. Use of Spreader Bars & Purpose4. Use of “Soft Tong” Device5. Use of Skidding Tongs6. Use of Fork Lifts7. Use of Cranes8. Use & Construction of Gin Poles9. Use of Ropes and Par-buckling System E. Mold & Mildew Control & Prevention 1. Treatment Methods 2. Treatment Materials F. Stocking of Peeled Logs 1. Safety Issues 2. Methods 3. AdvantagesG. Cataloguing Logs 1. Cutting Square Clean End Cuts of All Logs2. Measuring of Tip & Butt Diameters and Lengths3. Cataloging methodsVII. Building with Logs
A. Safety Issues (Accuracy and Attention to Detail More Important Than SpeedB. Pre-assembly Methods and PracticesC. “Accelerated Log Building” Myth & FictionD. Licensing Fees & LegaleseC. Tradition vs Recently Patented Techniques D. Establishing Temporary Block/Post Foundation and Purpose 1. Materials Used 2. Methods Available a. Use of Water Levels Explained b. Use of Construction Site Levels Demonstrated 3. Sill Log Selection 4. Discussion, Demonstration and Application of Importance of center lines. 5. Use of Chalk Lines 6. Splitting Sill Logs with Chainsaws (Full Length Logs) 7. “Brushing” and Planing Technique 8. Splitting Sill Logs with Chainsaw Attachments a. Chainsaw Powered Band saw Mills b. Chainsaw Powered Mills (Other) c. Flattening of Sill Logs with Chainsaws (Full Length Logs) VIII Log Construction / Practice
Log Construction / Practice A. Sill Log Lay Out
B. Practical Approach to Learning Notching Techniques
C.Types of Notches and Applications
1. Round Notches
2. Saddle Notches
3. Locking Square Notches
4. Post Notches
5. Pocket Notches
6. Post & Beam (Mortise & Tendon with Round Logs
D. Piece ‘en Piece French Canadian Log Building
E. Round Notch Practicum
1.Demonstration and Application
Demonstration and Application 2.Use of Indelible Ink Pencils & Spray Bottles
Use of Indelible Ink Pencils & Spray Bottles 3.Use of Scoring Knives
Use of Scoring Knives 4. Practice Session
Practice Session F. Scarf Cuts for Shrink-to-fit Saddle Notches
1. Demonstration and Application
2. Layout and Marking
3. Gauging Depth and Angle
4. Cutting and Saw Handling
5. Practice session
G. Saddle Notches
1. Demonstration and Application
2. Layout and Marking
3. Cutting and Saw Handling
4. Practice session
H. Scribe Set Up and Calibration 1. Explanation of Scribers and Their Use in Log Building
2. Demonstration of Use of Indelible Ink Pencils & Pressurized Ink Cartridges
Cartridges 3. Demonstration of Setting Scriber to Scribe
4. Use of “Story” Board
5. Demonstration and Application of Scriber
6. Practicing Use of Scriber – Keeping Bubbles Steady
7. Care and Use of Scriber and Indelible Ink Pencils
IX Log Construction (Wall Assembly)
Log Construction (Wall Assembly)A. Log Wall Selection 1. Explanation & Demonstration
2. Establishing Log Building Terms and Vocabulary
3. Notches, Lateral Grooves, Fly-ways, Crosshairs & More
4. Recording Corner Measurements Data
5. Use of Recorded Data to Determine Selection of Next Log from Catalog List
Catalog List 6. Procedural Step by Step Method of Fitting Logs into Place
a. Rough Averaging
b. Demonstration & Application
c. Use of Curved Logs vs Straight Logs
d. Sacrifice of Log End Alignment to Accommodate Openings
e. Dealing with Middle Notches
f. Placement / Bearing over Lower or Sill Logs Side to Side
g. Rotation and Positioning of Curve in Log (Horizontal and Outward)
h. Consideration of Placement of Door & Window Openings
i. Taking Measurements – (Corners and Shoulders)
j. Calculating Difference between Measurements Taken
k. Using Information to Determine Scribe Setting for Rough Notch (s)
l. Setting Scriber to Calculation & Setting-up Scriber
m. Scribing Rough Notches
n. Preparation of and Cutting of Rough Notches
o. Final Averaging
p. Demonstration & Application
q. Establishing Crosshairs on Ends of Logs
r. Rolling Rough Notched Log Back Into Place (Controlled)
s. Assessment and Adjustment of Log over Lower Log or Sills t. Consideration of Placement of Door & Window Openings
t. Calculating Scribe Setting
7. Chinkless and chink style construction. a. Demonstration & Application b. Using Scriber to find Narrowest Gap between Logs and Corners c. Incrementing for gap allowance d. Making a Record of the Selected Gap Location e. Scribing Wall Logs f. Demonstration and Application g. Techniques and Rules of Thumb h. Attention to Detail, Importance of i. Establishing “Location Marks” j. Visual Inspection to Assure Line Completion k. Markings for “Mouse – Holes” 8. Chinking Systems
a. Permachink Systems b. Weatherall Systems
c. Sashko
d. San Sin Systems
X Scribing, Notching, and Fitting
A. Positioning Logs for Notching1. Scoring Notches 1/8th inch Inside Scribe line2. Explanation of the One Scriber-Setting Approach 3. Cutting Lateral Groove between Notches inside Scribe Lines4. Cutting Flywaysa. Demonstration & Explanation b. Marking Log Ends c. Cutting outside Scribe Linesd. Assessing Log Notching to Anticipate 1st Time Fit e. Depth of Lateral Groove f. Final Trim of Lateral Groove Lines5. Fitting Log onto Wall a. Safety & Practice b. Demonstration & Explanation c. Locating Causes of Poorly Fitting Logsd. Correcting Causes – Getting it Righte. Methods & Techniquesf. Kerf Cutting for Log Checking Control6. Blind Notching One Log Wall into Another7. Various Log End Treatments & Styles8. Cutting of Curved ArchwaysXI Log Construction/ Beyond Log Walls
A. Designing Log Floor Support Systems1. Lofts, Main Floors, Balconies & Second Floors2. Use of Log Span Tables Book 3. Methods of Installing Beams and Log Joists4. Use of Square Notches5. Pocket Notches6. Use of Templates and Jigs 7. Demonstration, Explanation and Practice8. Getting the Joists all the same HeightB. Installation of Doors and Windows1. Demonstrated and Practiced2. Calculating Shrinkage & Settling3. Allowing for Settling4. Cutting of Log Wall Openings5. Laying Out & Marking Keyways 6. Cutting of Keyways7. Lay Out & Marking of Header and Sill LogsC. Engineering for Settling & Shrinkage 1. HVAC2. Plumbing3. Electrical4. Preparing Mortises in Log Walls for Switches and Outlets 5. Roofing6. Use of Posts and Screw Jacks7. Dowelling and Through-bolting8. Preparing Log Walls to Attach Interior Frame Walls 9. Preparing Log Walls to Attach Cabinets and Fixtures D. Construction of Log Stairs 1. Design and Applications2. Settling Allowance3. Styles & TechniquesE. Construction of Log Railing Systems 1. Tools Used ]2. Design and PlanningXII Heavy Timber Roof Support Systems
A. Log Roof Support Systems1. Design and Function 2. Use of Log Span Tables Book3. Discussion and Explanation 4. Framed Gable & Log Purling5. Enclosure Methods and Systems Discussed6. Post & Purlin 7. Enclosure Methods and Systems a. Log Rafters
b. Log Framed Dormers
c. Enclosure Methods and Systems Discussed
d. Log Truss & Purling
e. Enclosure Methods and Systems Discussed
8. Layout, Design and Construction of One or More Log Trusses
a. Demonstration and Practical Application
b. Necessary tools
c. Fastening Systems
XIII Pre-assembly & Reassembly
A. Numbering Logs – Preparing for Disassembly & ShippingB. Reassembly PhaseC. Insulating Log Walls and NotchesD. Log Building Standards 1. Copy Provided to Each Student
2. Discussion & Q&A Sessions throughout Workshop
3. Plan Reviews
4. Blue Print Reading and Drafting
5. Material Take-offs for Log “Shells”
6. Material Take Offs for Turn-key Construction
a. Site Selection
b. Foundations Systems
c. Finishing Treatments and Log Prep
d. Finishing Systems and Choices
e. Code Compliance Issues
7. Working with Code Inspectors & Engineers
XIV Log Handcrafting as a Small Business Enterprise - Discussions
A. Great Lakes Log Crafters Association B. International Log Builders Association C. Corp of Retired Executives (SCORE) D. Incorporating E. Industry Demographics and Projections F. Accounting- Quickbooks for Builders
G. A Family Held Corporation / Business H. Assessing Strengths and Weaknesses I. Respecting Differences and Advantages J. Insurance & Liability K. Log Building Standards (See ILBA Disclaimer) L. Log Building “Legaleze” M. Plan Reviews N. Review of Handcrafted Log Home Plans 1. Blueprints/Design and the New Log Building Code 2. Introduction to Blue Print Reading and Drafting3. Preparing Bids and Proposals4. Contracting and Subcontracting 5. Foundations System6. Code ComplianceXV Log Home Care, Maintenance & Restoration
A. Log Home Care, Maintenance and Restoration Services in high demand - Industry Over-view.
B. Log Home Care, Maintenance and Restoration Services Business model and Job estimating software. (Requires LapTop).
C. Introduction to Permachink Systems line of Log Home Care, Maintenance & Restoration products.
D. Log Replacement and use of log scribing, cutting and fitting skills with manufactured log home logs.
XVI Log Handcrafting as a Small Business Enterprise -
SBA Evening Classes Teaming up with the Small Business Ownership Initiative of Indiana
A. PLANNING YOUR BUSINESS
1. Introduction to Business Ownership
In this introductory session, learn what it takes to start a business, assess your readiness, set your goals,
plan your path towards business ownership, and learn how BOI’s programs can help you each step along
the way. 3 hours
2. Get Smart with Your Money
In this 10-hour series, learn how your personal finances affect the success of your business and how
improved personal money management increases your “bankability” when seeking small-business
financing. Topics covered in the series include understanding and improving your credit report, analyzing
your personal budget, changing bad money habits, setting financial goals, and future financial planning.
10 hours
3. Business Planning 1
In this 12-hour series, take the first steps in planning for business success by learning the fundamental
business principles you need to get started. Topics include researching your market opportunity, financial
planning, identifying your value proposition, and how to write your business plan. 12 hours
4. Business Planning 2
In this 10-hour advanced business planning series for graduates of Business Planning 1 or those with
existing businesses looking to grow, learn the fundamentals of detailed marketing and financial planning
to complete your business plan and be better prepared to seek financing for your business. Topics
include identifying sales targets, developing a comprehensive marketing plan, understanding financial
statements, and preparing cash flow projections. 10 hours
B. STARTING YOUR BUSINESS 3-2-1-Launch!
1. In this two-part session, hear from attorneys, accountants, insurance agents, and bankers about the steps
to take to make your business official and fulfill your legal responsibilities. Learn about choosing a legal
form of business, registering your business, setting up your tax accounts, obtaining the appropriate
insurance, choosing the right banking products for your business, and when and how professional
advisors can help you. 4 hours
C. GROWING YOUR BUSINESS: MANAGING FINANCES
1. Introduction to QuickBooks®
In this two-part workshop, learn how to use QuickBooks Pro® accounting software to effectively manage
your business finances. Practice hands-on how to set up your company, manage your accounts and
enter your business transactions. This beginner-level class is intended for novice QuickBooks users.
5 hours
2. Record Keeping for Small Business
Examine the essentials of record keeping for your business so that you are prepared for tax time and
have the information you need to effectively manage your business. Learn what documentation is
required and how to put together a simple transaction ledger. 2 hours
3. Taxes for Small Businesses
Recognize the various tax responsibilities you have as a small-business owner, understand what you
need to do to comply with the law, and review basic rules regarding business tax deductions. 2.5 hours
D. GROWING YOUR BUSINESS: FINDING CUSTOMERS ABCs of Certification
Learn about the benefits of becoming certified as a woman- or minority-owned business, be introduced to
the various certifying agencies, understand the application process and requirements, and get tips on
using your certification to obtain government contracts. 2 hours
1. Business Web Site Basics
Plan for your new or improved Web site by understanding common terminology, examining your goals
and planning for content, understanding basic design principles, and learning about your options for
creating a site, from do-it-yourself resources to how to effectively work with a professional Web designer.
2 hours
2. Internet Marketing
Learn about the tools you can use to increase your internet presence and drive more people to your
business through your Web site. Understand how to increase the chances of your site ranking high in
Google® searches, principles of internet advertising, and tips on using new social media tools. 2 hours
3. Marketing and Sales Strategies for 2010 and Beyond
In this two-part series, learn the secrets to successfully finding new customers for your business and
keeping your current customers coming back for more. Clarify your marketing objectives, craft your
message, learn how to stand out from the crowd, coordinate your sales and marketing activities, and
learn how to control the sales process. 4 hours
4. Networking for Success
In this 10-hour series, become a master at networking so that you can build a network of referral sources
to help grow your business. Topics include where to network, networking rules and etiquette, formulating
a killer elevator speech and how to cultivate strong relationships within your network. 10 hours
E. GROWING YOUR BUSINESS: MANAGING LEGAL ISSUES
1. Contracts and Negotiations
Learn how to protect your interests by understanding the principles of business contract law. Understand
what to look for when reviewing a contract, what to include when creating a contract, tips for negotiating
favorable terms, and how to minimize conflicts. 2 hours
2. Intellectual Property
Learn about copyrights, trademarks, and patents to understand how they are different and which are most
appropriate for protecting your intellectual property assets. Find out the basics of the application process
and which agencies you need to contact in order to file for this protection. 2 hours
William M. Lasko School of Log Building
Descriptions of all week Log & Timber Building Programs Offered
This full-time 12-week program is ideal for the person interested in working in the log & timber building industry and/or wanting to build their own handcrafted log structure. Students are provided with practical hands-on experience in a large, outdoor building yard, well-equipped work shop supplemented with computer and classroom instruction. Students gain knowledge of techniques, history, and systems employed in traditional Log & Timber building industry. Graduates of this course will be well positioned to seek full time employment or start their own business. 12 wk students are in it to find work or start a business, or even in some instances, lack construction experience all around and want a thorough experience to change careers, build for themselves and others, or even start a business. No other school has students building heavy log timber trusses for roof support systems or teach multiple traditional log building techniques. From design and building code issues, estimating and managing log construction projects to understanding finishing, care & maintenance of log buildings, graduates are ready and confident. A twelve- week Professional Log Builder Training Program Certificate of Completion is awarded.
Learning Outcomes:
Instruction and practical experience is provided in the 12 week Professional Log Builder Training Program –
Historical & practical design principles unique to Log & Timber Homes and Cabins
Reading & Interpreting specifications and sketch drawings and scale drawings
Solve issues where conventional frame & construction materials are incorporated
Log & Timber Building styles, techniques and Tradition
Scandinavian Full-scribe-to-fit (Chinked & Chink-less Construction)
Hewn Log Appalachian Half Dovetail (Chinked & Chink-less Construction)
Round Log Timber Frame Joinery & Construction
Log & Timber Selection and organizing of a log building yard
Design and build log trusses, design for loads sizing and choosing logs and timbers
Extensive layout applicable to working with round, tapered irregular shaped logs and timbers
Heavy Log & Timber Framing and geometry
Joinery choices and selection
Skill development with a variety of hand held and powered and non-powered tools
Log & Timber Home Care, Maintenance and restoration services
PermaChink Systems product knowledge and understanding and equipment use/familiarization
Stains
Preservatives
Sealants
Cleaning methods and equipment used
Finishing log shell, moving and re-assembly onto customers waiting foundation
Log Stair styles pre-assembly and application
Log Railing systems
Log Building Code
Estimating and Quoting Projects
Business Up-start (appr 63 hours of off campus evening classes)
Intro to Business Start-up
Money Management
Biz Planning 1
Biz Planning 2
Starting Your Own Business
Intro to QuickBooks
Biz Record Keeping
Taxes for Small Biz
Marketing – Finding Customers
Biz Web Site
Internet Marketing
Contracts & Negotiations
(Business start-up classes in conjunction with Small Business Ownership Initiative of Indiana. This SBA funded services
provider is networked nation-wide and can assist in getting you connected for follow-up services and assistance with your new business)
Learning Outcomes:
Instruction and practical experience is provided in 2 Week Log & Timber Building Program –
Description of a 2-week Log & Timber Building Program
This full-time 2-week program is ideal for the person interested in working in the log & timber building industry
and/or wanting to build their own handcrafted log structure. Students are provided with practical hands-on
experience in a large, outdoor building yard, well-equipped work shop supplemented with computer and classroom
instruction. Students gain knowledge of techniques, history, and systems employed in traditional Log & Timber building industry. Graduates of this course will be well positioned to work with skilled trades' people in the shop and
on the job-site. 2 wk students typically already feel very comfortable around construction/carpentry and related trades and will catch on fast. Intending to build for themselves only. A two week Basic Skills Log Builder Training Program Certificate of Completion is awarded.
Historical & practical design principles unique to Log & Timber Homes and Cabins
Reading & Interpreting specifications and sketch drawings and scale drawings
Solve issues where conventional frame & construction materials are incorporated
Log & Timber Building styles, techniques and Tradition
Scandinavian Full-scribe-to-fit (Chinked & Chink-less Construction)
or
Hewn Log Appalachian Half Dovetail (Chinked & Chink-less Construction)
Log & Timber Selection and organizing of a log building yard
Design log trusses, design for loads sizing and choosing logs and timbers
Extensive layout applicable to working with round, tapered irregular shaped logs and timbers
Joinery choices and selection
Skill development with a variety of hand held and powered and non-powered tools
Log & Timber Home Care, Maintenance and restoration services
Finishing log shell, moving and re-assembly onto customers waiting foundation
Log Stair styles design & theory
Log Railing systems design & theory
Estimating Materials for Projects
Learning Outcomes:
Instruction and practical experience is provided in 4 week Log & Timber Building Programs -
Description of a 4-week Log & Timber Building Program
This full-time 4-week program is ideal for the person interested in working in the log & timber building industry
and/or wanting to build their own handcrafted log structure. Students are provided with practical hands-on
experience in a large, outdoor building yard, well-equipped work shop supplemented with computer and classroom
instruction. Students gain knowledge of techniques, history, and systems employed in traditional Log & Timber building industry. Graduates of this course will be well positioned to work at the entry-level with skilled trades' people in the shop and on the job-site. 4 wk students are the most common students wanting to make the most of the time they can get away to attend the school. A little less construction experience but confident they will catch on quickly and will master many of the skills while here - should be able to build for themselves and /or seek employment. A four week Intermediate Log Builder Training Program Certificate of Completion is awarded.
Historical & practical design principles unique to Log & Timber Homes and Cabins
Reading & Interpreting specifications and sketch drawings and scale drawings
Solve issues where conventional frame & construction materials are incorporated
Log & Timber Building styles, techniques and Tradition
Scandinavian Full-scribe-to-fit (Chinked & Chink-less Construction)
or
Hewn Log Appalachian Half Dovetail (Chinked & Chink-less Construction)
Log & Timber Selection and organizing of a log building yard
Design and build log trusses, design for loads sizing and choosing logs and timbers
Extensive layout applicable to working with round, tapered irregular shaped logs and timbers
Joinery choices and selection
Skill development with a variety of hand held and powered and non-powered tools
Log & Timber Home Care, Maintenance and restoration services
PermaChink Systems product knowledge and understanding and equipment use/familiarization
Finishing log shell, moving and re-assembly onto customers waiting foundation
Log Stair styles pre-assembly and application
Log Railing systems
Estimating and Quoting Projects
Transferable Skills and Directions
Your New Skills and Business Opportunities :
Some skilled handcrafted log builders use their skills to be able to do what we refer to as a Log Accent work. The industry, particularly the commercial construction industry, refers to it as Architectural Components (specialty log accents for commercial applications). You'll see Gander Mountain, Cabela's, Smokey Bones Restaurants, Bass Pro Shops all combine modern steel, concrete and log accents - see http://www.tjswood.com/products_commercial/commercial.html. for an example. Bars, stores, parks, commercial retailers want a need a resource who can provide these skills locally!In my own contracting work, I have done several projects large and small providing log accents to the residential construction industry as a specialty contractor.
Some skilled handcrafted log builders use their skills to focus on one product such as log stairs systems or railing systems, heavy log truss and purlin roof systems or produce ornate and custom made fireplace mantles, which we do too. The milled/manufactured log home building industry traditionally is comprised of self-taught carpenters lacking these skills and so some of these builders come to learn the skills to be able to enhance what they are already doing and be able to offer a more unique application of log accents only us handcrafters understand how to produce. We preserve the true character of knots, cat faces and limbs and natural uniqueness of each log carved to fit into one place while maintaining a “it must have grown together!”fit. One guy took his skills and understanding of log building and market needs began planting and "training" trees to grow so that windows can be made with the trees and limbs as the wood in a multi-glass pane windows or doors. Perfect and unique for custom handcrafted or milled log homes!
Our 12 week graduates will understand how to start up their own business and with as high of a demand
as exists for contracting log home maintenance, care and restoration jobs throughout the country – in fact, by the time you graduate and get home, you could have customers waiting for you.
Summary and Evaluation
A. Student Evaluation-All students will hand in a log building proposal to include material rough sketches, resources and cost estimates. Students will also submit journals/notebooks containing notes and sketches from instruction during the course.
B. Students will evaluate the course and instruction keeping in mind…. How could the course better meet the student’s needs? Training for Log Replacement in Log Home Care Services as a high demand business opportunity -
READ More on this -
Log home owners across the US have been experiencing a very difficult time in finding services for Care, Maintenance and Restoration of their log homes. Typically, manufactured milled log homes suffer from a lack of adequate protection from the sun and then rain or moisture. Homeowners often try to do their own care, maintenance or restoration projects and can make matters worse. Unlike lumber, logs require breathable finishes and to put deck stains or conventional wood siding stains on logs, it is like replacing the bark on a log. Water migrates in one of two ways; Osmosis and Capillary Action. Finishes that do not allow the logs to breath, or in other words - freely equalize their natural moisture contents with the ambient humidity as the seasons pass, TRAP the moisture already in the logs and it will collect under the impermeable coating, causing rot to begin. ALL wood breathes. Kiln dried lumber dried to 5% moisture for flooring or making furniture will soon re-absorb moisture until it equilizes with the area seasonal moisture content of the air. A sealer is placed on these materials upon removing from the kiln to prevent that.
So why don't they kiln dry logs down to 5% moisture content and apply a good sealer? The answer is simply that there is a point of diminishing returns on getting a log kilned down to that moisture level, and what the public will pay for the increased costs. Also, any cuts made into the logs would allow the logs to begin re-absorbing moisture again. Ever see a wood floor get deluged with water? It swells and buckles - and a fully kiln dried log would do the same thing - imagine that! Many of the milled log kit companies do provide an option for "kiln-dried" logs - but these logs have not been fully kiln dried - and for the most part, only the surfaces have been dried. They won't like hearing that - but it is true. The practice, then, of charging often times is 25% or more for "kiln dried"logs is a misleading practice The handcrafted log home has a tradition reching back over 1500 years and there are log buildings all over Europe that are 800 and 900 years old - they learned to join timbers with self-draining notches - water could keep on going should it ever get into a joint.
Todays milled kit log homes, by virtue of their efforts to mill a joinery system into the shape of the logs, and use of exposed "butt-joints" so that you can easily lift the logs into place and not need the requisite skills to join the logs. "Water Traps" are the result and put that together with a simple but huge over site - not enough adequate roof overhang protection to keep the sun and water off the logs - it's a recipe that results in logs needing to be replaced due to rotting and the whole house slumping due the logs not being able to hold the rest of the house up - in as little as 7 years after new construction is all to common!
At the Lasko School of Log Building, we teach the old world requisite skills to completely build from scratch - and make all the self draining joinery with a variety of tools. Those are the same skills a good, professional log home restoration service provider must have to be able to replace those rotten logs. Their training will allow them to assess why the problem began and be able to advise the home owner on how to prevent future incidenses of rot and decay. Protecting their investment, for log homeowners - is extremely important. Usually, by the time they are seeing problems with their log home - there is much more extensive damage than can be seen. There are a lot of handyman services that will wipe things down and apply new stain or other, non-breathable stains or coatings, and will be long gone when the home owner sees the results of a lack of training, understanding and experience. Recently, one such handyman came in to ask about a bee kit for Carpenter Bees. He told me he had been hired last Fall to "paint" the homeowner's 3500 square foot milled log home with Thompson's Water Seal. Neither one knew what to do - or at least that's what he was saying - but he left to tell the home owner that Thompson's was not the product he should have used................he didn't return, nor did the home owner come in to ask any questions so I assume the guy didn't say anything and went on his way.
Our 12 Week Log Builder Training Program includes emphasis on log replacement techniques and instruction on the log home care, maintenance and restoration. Students will know how to properly assess damage and create a written plan for cleaning, preserving, staining and even making simple changes to a home to see that it is not needing further restoration in the future. The demand for their skills is high and the pay is very good, here in Indiana, and really, in every state! The down turn in the economy and increasing job loss across the country means we'll all have to adjust to finding new ways to work and support our families.
The Lasko School of Log Building is the only vocational school for log building and the only school including log home care, maintenance and restoration our Log Builder Training Program in North America. We want our graduates to go right to work and help them with that too. Come and learn how to build with logs from scratch and earn a living doing something you'll love!
Bill Lasko
