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! |
