Ok, so we have decided on a log home, but the next question is-
"Where do we start?"
There are many factors to consider when planning a log home, from the dream to the finished product. The process is lengthy and detailed, and should be as enjoyable as the end product.
Ralph Greslin is a leader in the industry of log homes, and the following segment is an opportunity to glean a wealth of insight and knowledge from his 37+ years of experiences. Please contact us and submit your own questions. We would love to hear from you!
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How much does a log home cost?
Very few instances arise that the budget is not a factor in the finished product. It is very important that quite early in the process we have a very clear idea of what the client’s overall budget is so that we can guide them in planning a home that meets their expectations for the finished product that is allowed by their budget. >>read more>>
What do I need to consider when selecting the land for my home?
Often time clients come to me with very firm ideas on their dream home, wishing to live in the rolling hills of the Black Hills of western South Dakota, but not yet researched the land. This topic is key to design in many ways. >>readmore>>
Does Timberline only build homes in Western South Dakota?
If your building site is within approximately a 100 mile radius of Timberline’s home office, Timberline Builders, Inc. can provide you with a proposal for turn-key construction. Timberline Builders, Inc. also offers the service of partial construction, taking the home to the stage where the customer wishes to take over and complete themselves.
What considerations are there in determining the logs I choose for my home?
First, the discussion must begin with what does the client currently know about logs. Some information they have gotten from the wide variety of sources available in today's information world is sound, some is not. >>read more>>
What log profiles and corner styles does Timberline offer?
Clients usually love this part of the process because log profiles and corner styles play a large role in determining the personality of the home. At Timberline, we offer 4 log profiles with unique corner styles. >>read more>>
Do you handle all of the subcontracting work, or is that something I need to coordinate?
The client can identify who we will work with if they like, or they can turn over all of the coordination to us. We have the resources to handle all the work, from clearing the building site of trees, dirt work and site preparation, road work, all the way to digging a well and doing the septic system work. >>read more>>
Do Timberline's logs usually settle?
Yes. All log homes will settle. However, with more than 37 years of experience, Timberline has settling down to a science. Timberline custom designs built-in systems to control settling and make it virtually unnoticeable. By using logs from dead standing trees, we keep settling, shrinking and warping to a minimum. Door openings, window openings and interior walls are constructed to handle settling without affecting the structure. We work hard to educate the builders and subcontractors of all Timberline's log homes to ensure a quality home without settling problems.
How energy efficient is a log home?
The geographical area that we build in has some pretty extreme temperatures - for example there is a possibility of getting down to a -30°F in the winter in the higher elevations, to getting as high as +110°F in the summer months. This requires that we consider the thermal value of logs when building. Most people are familiar with the rating of insulation in traditional stick built homes. >>read more>> What is the best choice for heating and cooling systems for log homes?
Because of the geographical locations of most of our homes, we have 2 options for heating and cooling; electric and propane. >>read more>>
What floorplans/styles does Timberline offer?
Timberline offers nine pre-designed standard plans for our package homes as a starting point for your new home. Typically, a floor plan requires changes to fit each client's needs and building property. Timberline offers in house drafting and design services for this reason. Many customers bring in their own floor plans or a simple sketch that fulfills their needs and desires. From this, our award winning design team can develop an accommodating floor plan.
If you are not sure where to begin, schedule a consultation and begin conceiving the home of your dreams. As construction begins, how involved will I be?
We encourage the client to be on site at least one time per week if at all possible. Changes are inevitable as the plans become a reality, so the project foreman needs to work closely with the client as often as possible. It is difficult for some of our clients as they do not live in close proximity, so we do a lot of work thru email and pictures. For those that can be on site, we require onsite visits only occur during non-construction times to ensure safety of all involved.
What considerations are there for long term maintenance of my home?
The key to maintenance is directly related to the very first products that are applied to the logs - stains and sealers. >> read more>>
How do I determine the best Lender?
Obtaining a construction loan for building a log home is the same as financing other custom built homes. Banks, mortgage companies or credit unions are common financers for custom home building. We have worked with many lenders in the area over the last 35 years, and we can give you our recommendations based on the experiences we have had with each of them. >>read more>>
Can I meet with Timberline to discuss their products and/or services in more depth?
We encourage you to take the next step and contact us. You call, email, or visit our office to discuss your ideas and questions with one of our log experts. We recommend making an appointment at our office if you are interested in having an in-depth, informational visit. Our vast knowledge and experience will prove helpful when discussing any area of concern. We would be happy to walk you through the process of building your dream home.
