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Air-Lock Log Homes Southwest
An Exclusive Dealership
505-487-4444 |
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FAQ's
Can I get financing for a log home?
Yes, but it takes patience and diligence. To save time, prepare two to four applications simultaneously. This takes less time than compiling copies each time you need to re-present your application. Try local banks in the area in which you are building, mortgage companies and mortgage brokers. Ask to pre-qualify first, then ask for a complete list of documents and requirements you will need for final approval.
For information about obtaining a mortgage your Air-Lock Log Home, find out more from these log home lenders that specialize in the log home market. American Log Mortgage and M&T Mortgage Corporation can help you with your log home construction loan and mortgage needs.
© 2003 - 2006 Air-Lock Log Homes, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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How much does it cost to build a log home?
Cost is relative to where you build (resort areas are more expensive than Small Town, USA and it costs more to haul materials and labor to difficult sites), what you build (simple designs cost less than complex designs and very small cabins actually cost more per square foot than larger plans!) and when you build (contractors and general labor cost more during peak construction periods).
Total cost for a log home usually falls within 5 to 10 percent of a comparable conventional home. The key word here is comparable. You have to compare apples to apples: Same house, same site, same builder, same upgrades, same unique features. Got that? So, if your log design includes cathedral ceilings with exposed beams, then, so should the conventional design.
You can estimate the cost for completing your Air-Lock Log Home by multiplying the kit cost (including taxes) by four times the kit cost for a nicely finished home or more for a picture book finish! Now, determine the cost per square foot of construction in the area in which you are building. It usually falls with in a range, i.e. $95 to $110 per square foot. (Or, in a resort area: $125 and up!) Construction cost is related to the "cost of living index" of the region.
It is good to keep in mind that your budget is your budget! The better question is: How much home can I build within my budget?
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Why are the logs hollow?
Air-Lock bores the hole in the center of the log to facilitate the drying process. Hollow logs dry faster with less checking than solid logs. They are lighter in weight for shipping and construction and the hole provides a conduit to run electrical wiring.
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What is the R-factor?
R-factor is a unit of thermal resistance applied to the insulating value of a specific building material. Most areas in the United States have adopted energy codes that dictate the R-factor required for walls, ceilings and foundations. Homes built in these areas, must meet a minimum R-factor in the walls.
Wood has a lower R-factor that fiberglass in an equal thickness. Log walls can make up some of this difference by factoring in a U-factor for its ability to store and retain heat.
About 90% of heat in a structure is lost through the roof, not the walls. Tests have shown that log walls perform just as well as a 6" insulated frame wall. In the higher elevations of the Rocky Mountain and Southwest states, codes may permit the use of credits or trade offs for solar gain through south facing windows.
Our clients have always been impressed with the energy efficiency of their Air-Lock Log Home. We manufacture 7", 8", 9" and 10" Air-Lock Logs. Base your choice for log diameter based on the elevation and exposure of you site, the size of you log home and, your budget. Consider that you may someday sell your "cabin" and the buyer may use it as a "home".
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What is included in the kit?
The Air-Lock kit includes log for walls and gables; dormer walls and gables; log roof structural members and hardware; log porch posts, rail and rafters; loft beams, support beams, half log stairs and railing; deck rail components; caulking; plans; instructions and telephone customer support. You can also elect to omit a log feature and the cost will be adjusted accordingly.
Bill of Materials
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What is not included in the kit?
Delivery of the log kit (unless stated in the Purchase Agreement); labor to erect the log kit; materials or labor for: foundation; sub floor; windows and doors; roof sheathing, insulation and separators, decking nor roofing; nails; interior framing and wall surfaces, finish details; electrical nor plumbing installations; cabinets, countertops, appliances; fireplace or wood stove; nor any other material not specifically stated in the purchase agreement.
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Does Air-Lock have crews to build the log kit?
No, but we may be able to recommend a General Contractor in the area in which you are building.
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Do I need a contractor?
In most States, you can be your own General Contractor or "Owner Builder". Check with your local construction permitting office. We recommend you hire a GC if you do not have general construction experience, the time it takes to properly supervise this project or the physical ability to perform heavy construction activities.
An alternative is to hire a Builder or Project Consultant to guide you through your construction project. They will require a retainer fee for a pre-determined number of hours of consultation.
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Do you have a list of recommended contractors?
Yes, we try to maintain a current list of contractors that have constructed our product for other clients. When choosing a contractor make sure you can communicate and get clear communication in return. Ask for references and talk to them.
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Can I build it myself?
Only if you are prepared to do so. You need time, skills and physical ability. Consider the possibility that you may end up costing yourself money instead of saving some!!!!
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How is the wiring run?
The hole in the log can be used as a chase for romex or flexible conduit (commercial installations). Some drilling or "fishing" is necessary to turn the log corner or a vertical "run". Actual installation varies for concrete slab and continuous perimeter type foundations.
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Can I have a fireplace?
Of course, but "air-tight" stoves are both more efficient and less costly. A custom rock fireplace can cost from $5,000 to $10,000 or even more.
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Why should I choose Air-Lock Log Homes as my log home supplier?
Several reasons. First, we have earned our good reputation for producing quality log homes and cabins for over a 60 year ! We take pride in our quality and the value it offers our clients. Second, our hollow log and design system perform especially well from Montana's mountains to Ariaona's desert and from New Mexico's mesas to Michigan's lakes and from California's Pacific Coast to Florida's Gulf Cost ! Third, our kit offers a rustic log rafter and beam cathedral roof structure. Fourth, the Air-Lock Log package offers a complete "log" look, including gables, dormers, saddle corners, loft and roof system. And finally, we care about you and your log home. Our staff is friendly and knowledgeable. We will go the extra "log" for you.
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How does Air-Lock deal with log settling?
There is a big difference between shrinkage and settling. Most shrinkage occurs when moisture drops from 20% down to 15%. The moisture content is reduced to a maximum of 15% before being pre-cut. So, by starting with a dry log, we minimize the amount of settling that can occur with green logs. Our system allows for log settling at the tops of window and door openings by allowing extra space that is filled with insulation and flashed outside and trimmed inside and out. Most settling (95%) has occurred by the time the roof is complete.
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How long does it take to erect the logs?
We have found that an experienced crew of three with good equipment can erect a $45,000 kit in 4 to 7 working days. Owner-builders tend to take a bit longer. Of course, actual time depends on the ability, thoroughness, hours per day, and the weather.
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How soon can I take delivery, if I order today?
This is really an "it depends" question/answer. It depends on how far ahead we have reserved orders, log inventory, and time of year. Most of the time, we can offer delivery from 60 days to 6 months out. Remember, from the time you make a decision , you will need to arrange financing, choose a contractor, drill a well, build a drive way, install temporary power, and install a foundation and sub floor to be ready for the logs to be delivered! It all takes time and coordination. (Don't worry, we can help).
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Is shipping included?
Air-Lock Log Homes (Montana) will arrange delivery through a local transport company. The cost will be quoted prior to delivery. Of course, clients may arrange their own delivery as well.
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How long are most of the logs?
Our standard module length is 8 feet. Rafters and beams are 12' to 42' depending on their function in the structure.
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How much does a log weigh?
A tie beam can weigh as much as 15 pounds per foot! An 8' by 8" corner log will weight about 80 pounds.
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Are Air-Lock Logs graded?
Air-Lock Log Homes participates in the Timber Products Inspection Program. Each piece is inspected and grade stamped in compliance for its function in the structure.
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Do you furnish a site consultant to help us get started?
There is a charge for on site consulting service. Our instruction manual and plans are specific enough that, when followed, will enable you to erect the log kit in a satisfactory manner. A digital camera and e-mail are great tool in allowing us to help any problem that may arise.
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What other costs should I anticipate?
Delivery costs have already been addressed. Other costs may includebut, are not limited to, insurance, financing, utilities to site, blasting for septic & leach lines, uncontracted labor costs, rise in cost of major items, and change orders! Top
Are there homes in my area I could go see?
There might be. Call us to find out. Most of our packages are shipped to sites off the beaten path. Once we give you the name and phone number of a Air-Lock Log Home owner, please call to make arrangements to view the home. Some times, owners will welcome you to see the inside as well. But remember, these are private residences, so please be respectful and courteous.
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© 2003 - 2006 Air-Lock Log Homes, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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