The
Strongwood Log Difference
Find
out why |
|
|
STRONGWOOD
|
Others
|
| Do I have the choice of log package options? |
YES
|
Varies - many
manufacturers have limited choices. |
| How many log styles do you offer? |
Over 70 |
Varies widely.
|
| Does Strongwood offer log railings, log stairs,
and hardwood flooring for log homes? |
YES |
Some manufacturers
do. However most do not. |
| Are Strongwood homes energy efficient?
|
YES -
You might expect to save 15%-20% in energy costs |
None are more
energy efficient than the Strongwood full log. |
| How much do log homes cost? |
Our experience is
that totally complete turnkey Strongwood homes in the U.S. average between
$120 and $160 per square foot |
Varies. Some low
grade materials may cost less. Handcrafted logs may range from $200 to $400
per square foot. |
| Is only Eastern White Pine used for structural
logs? |
YES
- Plus
we offer Western Red Cedar and Douglas Fir options |
No - Varies.
Some use lesser quality pine or dead standing logs. |
| Can I use any cabinets or fixtures for my log home? |
YES
We don't restrict you
to low quality finishing options
|
No - Some manufactures require you to
source components from them |
| Are all logs kiln dried? |
YES -
Absolutely
Our
logs are dried to 15-19% or lower: an exacting process that takes 28-34 days. No
company in North America has a more precise drying process to assure
quality.
|
No - while some
mfg. say they kiln dry, it's best to ask questions. Some only dry enough
to mill the outside of the log. Ask them if they have to account for
settling or shrinkage. |
| Is the Strongwood log building system really the
best? |
YES -
We
want to prove it to you. We use screws, not spikes; and a 4-way seals
Every package includes full blueprints & construction manual. |
Varies - We feel
that there are other very well engineered log systems on the market.
However, even some of the largest companies have some poor systems. It's
difficult to tell the difference sometimes. |
| Is onsite log package building assistance included
automatically? |
YES
with every
package worldwide
|
No |
| Is a construction manual included with every log package? |
YES |
No - varies |
| Can I get a ballpark price on floor plans with no cost and no
obligation? |
YES
|
No - varies |
| Are in-house design services available?
|
YES -
Our own design department will turn your ideas & plans
into a blueprint. |
Varies |
| Can I do some of the work myself? |
YES
Check
out our Owner-Builder & Builder-Partner programs
|
Yes |
| Can I build a Strongwood home even if I do not
want to do any of the work myself? |
YES
We
have building options that include log stacking and project management
anyplace in the United States. We will also assist you in locating a
competent local general contractor to assure you of a quality job. |
No - varies |
| Is the manufacturer or dealer an experienced contractor? |
YES -
All
our authorized Strongwood dealers are qualified builders. Our headquarters
staff are licensed general contractors. |
No - varies widely |
| Can Strongwood provide a commercial log building? |
YES |
Yes - varies |
| Is a life-time warranty offered? |
YES |
No - varies |
| Can I purchase my log home from Strongwood or a
Strongwood dealer
& build anyplace? |
YES
We
offer worldwide building options
|
Varies |
| Does the manufacturer belong to the Log Homes
Council? |
YES
We are 1 of 60 current members
out of 500 manufacturers who subscribe to the rigorous requirements that
assure you of a quality home. |
Only 10% of the U.S. log home
manufacturers qualify for membership |
|
While
log homes have proven to be one of the best home investments and enjoy the
benefits energy efficiency, beauty, and flexibility of design, there is a
considerable range of quality in the marketplace.
[from Bob Marcom]
As I attend trade shows across the country and chat with log home
enthusiasts, many of them tell me, "I am totally confused by all
the different claims about "this is the best" or "ours is better
because..... I don't know if I
should chose a really big company or a small company ---- a local company
or a nationwide company. I can't figure out which system is best. And,
sometimes it looks like their literature is very nice but their 1 logs don't
look that great. Why is that?"
Indeed, finding the 'right'
dealer or manufacturer can be difficult. The table above should
provide some guidance. I know that if you
talk to us, we will provide you with the very best log package on the
market using materials from one of the largest log manufacturing facilities in North America
coupled --- all with terrific service. I believe that you will find it enjoyable
as we work together on your new home. In the end, you will have exactly the home you wanted and
more! |
