Boreal Shores Log Structures are the best do-it-yourself building kits available.
Our buildings use kiln dried northern spruce logs that assemble like a puzzle. Each log is tongue & grooved for easy stacking with interlocking corners and connecting walls. Each kit includes interior divisional walls, interior doors, all trim and hardware with keys. Available in various wall thicknesses, including options for insulation.
The result, a beautiful building, all wood exterior & interior ready for the use of your choice.
Building Codes
Most urban regions require building permits for structures over 100 sq ft. However some regions or specific applications do not require permits. This may depend on whether the structure is permanent or portable. It is important to research this before you purchase.
Where building permits are required for larger garden houses, cabins or homes our structures can be modified to meet snow loads and winds loads, at the time of production or after assembly has been completed.
Insulated Wall Designs
Softwood has an R-value of 1.4 to 1.6 per inch. However log homes use different methods to meet building code acceptance. Solid log construction is given a THERMAL MASS rating. Round logs are only as efficient as the smallest point of contact where the two legs meet. Our 2 3/4 flat v-joint milled logs with tongue and groove joints provides the same thermal efficiency as a 10" round log.
In many regions with moderate climates our two larger wall thicknesses can be used as single wall and will meet required building codes and insulation is not required. For more extreme climates insulated wall systems are used to provide the desired R-Value for heating & cooling plus meet building codes.
Following the complete assembly of a single wall structure, studs applied to the inside surface of the exterior walls. The studs are fastened to the wall logs using a metal angle bracket that allows the interior studs and exterior wall logs to expand and contract separately. The cavity between the studs is insulated and wired the same as conventional construction. (Note: some regions may require vapour barriers and house wraps) The inside of the studs are then covered with T & G boards to match the interior divisional walls. The interior divisional walls remain as single walls.
Storm rods are provided and the wall logs are pre-drilled at the required locations in the walls and in the log horms. These storm rods secure the building for sheering and wind loads and can be tightened as the exterior wall logs shrink over time.
Insulated Ceilings
Ceilings can be insulated from the exterior or interior. Insulation can be applied to the roof prior to installing exterior metal roofing or shingles. This maintains the natural T&G wood ceiling and full purlins on the interior. Vapor barriers and house wraps are required for some types of insulation.
Insulating from the interior can be done after the building has been assembled. Insulation is installed between the purlins from the underside and then T&G boards are nailed between the purlins leaving some purlin exposed. A second method is to cover the ceiling by installing T&G boards, paneling or drywall to the underside of the purlins, leaving a flat surface ceiling and no visible purlins.
Electrical
Floor mounted electrical outlets can be installed and wiring is hidden under the floor for small portable buildings. For larger cabins and homes with single wall construction, surface mounted electrical systems can be used.
Electrical chases can also be drilled in the wall logs at time of production to allow for wiring of switches and wall plugs. This method hides the wiring both on the exterior and interior walls. Chases run through to the ceiling which allow for hidden wires to connect lights.