Y2K Prepare Immediately

Posted on by Tim Carter

Y2K Prepare Immediately!

Chicken Little is possibly basking in all his glory right now. Well sort of. Remember the fable where he runs around saying the sky is falling? To a degree, certain sensationalists are doing the same thing right now. Yes, there are computers that have a programming flaw. Yes, certain basic and other business systems rely on these computers. But what happens each time we have a power outage? In many instances, people still work but they do the best they can without computers. We are all going to do the same thing this coming January.

Think Positive

I know several people who always have a negative outlook. Things are always bad. Their lives are miserable because they get dumped on or whatever. Well, I say get out of the way! In other words, begin to think positive and take pro-active steps to become less reliant on other people and systems. I am not saying to become a mountain man like the character Robert Redford played in the 1970's movie Jeremiah Johnson, but I am asking you to start modifying your lifestyle so that you can fend for yourself for a period of days or weeks without much interaction with the outside word.

Need to Work?

If you must report to work on January 2nd or 3rd, then you better figure out a way to get there if the gas stations are closed or the subway has no juice. Can you walk to work? Do you have comfortable shoes? Is it possible to bicycle to work? If so, buy a bike and start to ride now. You might get some well needed exercise!

A Decent Book

Would you like to learn more about preparing for a possible Y2K crisis? If so, the folks at Chelsea Green have a good book that helps you think about options you have in getting ready. The title of the book is: Y2K & Y-O-U. It is authored by Dermot McGuigan and Beverly Jacobson. You can call Chelsea Green to order the book at 800-639-4099. It is also possible to get the book from their website:

www.chelseagreen.com

Don't Panic

Do I really think there are going to be serious problems? Not really. Are there going to be problems? Yes, and I feel they will be regional in nature. You will get into problems if you panic and start to act without thinking.

Think now about what you really need to survive for a week or ten days. Do you have a relative who lives in Florida or Southern California where the weather will be nice this coming winter? In other words, plan now if there is a big problem in your area and you need to get someplace where there is little need for heat and lots of fresh water around.

Ask your boss what might happen if things go down the tubes. Will your business close? Do you need to start saving money now in case you are laid off? Ask questions now, not on January 2, 2000.

Sanitation

What happens if we all loose our water supplies? If you think you are going to be able to stockpile enough water to flush toilets, and take showers, you are dreaming. An average family uses hundreds of gallons of water each day in normal conditions. You are going to have to alter your lifestyle drastically.

You can use a toilet and flush it once a day, but that can become rather offensive rather quickly. To flush a toilet without water in the tank all you need to do is to pour 3 or 4 gallons of water into the bowl rather quickly. Be careful not to splash!

Anti-Freeze

To protect standing water in plumbing traps should the temperature drop in your home, use recreational vehicle anti-freeze or other non-poisonous anti-freeze. Avoid automotive anti-freeze as it is poisonous. It is also illegal to dump it into public sewer systems in many areas.

Do NOT use anti-freeze if you have a septic system! ! ! Pour salt water into the traps as salt water has a lower freezing point. If you goof up your septic system, you are toast.

The Y2K Prepare Immediately Checklist

I have tried to develop a Y2K checklist that will help protect you, your loved ones, and your property while minimizing an outlay of money. Many lists I have seen seem extreme to me and certain things that are recommended might go to waste if the crisis turns out to be a dud. Here is what I am going to do for my family:

  1. Flashlights - I already own 3 very good aluminum "Mag-Light" flashlights. I intend to purchase 3 more. I have found that these flashlights rarely break and they come with great bulbs. Purchase extra bulbs while you are at it.
  2. Radio / CD Players - The transmitting equipment at the radio station I do my call in show each week WILL work after midnight January 1, 2000. We have our own power supply in the event that we do lose electricity. The point is I am quite sure other radio stations will be broadcasting as well. Buy a small - high quality transistor radio so you can tune into disaster information if there is a crisis.
  3. Batteries - Buy at least 5 changes of batteries for every device that needs them. Get good ones and store them in a cool place until they are needed.
  4. Generators? ? - Are you thinking about a portable generator? If so, you need a huge one to really provide the power you are used to consuming. Big generators and the necessary transfer switching components are very expensive ($3,000 and up) and need to be installed by an electrician. Small generators can only power a few light bulbs, maybe a TV, etc. at the same time. They absolutely will not power any 240 volt equipment, a heat pump, etc. Don't be fooled by salespeople. READ my past column and Builder Bulletin on my website about Portable Generators!
  5. Added Insulation - This is a winner suggestion. Any insulation you add will help you to stay warm when it is cold and cool while it is hot. It will work if we have a crisis and long after a crisis.
  6. Canned Food - I would start to look at food that requires no refrigeration. Get a variety of fruits, vegetables, soups, etc. that appeal to all who need to eat.
  7. Clean the Chimney - If you decide to heat with wood, then you need to make sure your chimney is in excellent condition. Have it inspected pronto! Consider purchasing a fire extinguisher or two or begin to develop a plan to have water nearby so that you can douse a small out-of-control fire in a hurry.
  8. Combustion Air - If you are going to burn wood in the house, then you need to provide a source of combustion air directly to the fireplace or appliance that is burning the fuel.
  9. Gasoline - Do NOT stockpile gasoline for your car. Many cities and towns have strict laws about how much gasoline is allowed on residential property. Simply keep your gas tank filled to the brim during the month of December.
  10. Thrift Clothing - Begin to visit thrift stores or garage sales and buy extra clothes that will work if you do lose power. Look around for sleeping bags and blankets.
  11. Stockpile Wood - If you plan to burn wood for heat, then start to get it. Hardwoods produce more heat per cord than softwoods. Cover the woodpile on top, but not the sides. Stack the wood so plenty of air can get to it. Keep it somewhat close to your back or side door so you can get it easily.
  12. Grilling Out - Plan to cook on a grill, but NOT indoors! Stockpile some charcoal now during the late summer months. NEVER burn charcoal inside as it produces vast amounts of carbon monoxide.
  13. CO & Smoke Detectors! - If you are going to burn things in your house, get several CO & smoke detectors & batteries.
  14. Water ! ! - This is a big one. Save each and every one gallon milk jug from now on, rinse them well, fill them with water and added 3 or 4 drops of chlorine bleach. If you need to use it, pour the water into a bowl 24 hours before it is needed and the chlorine will leave the water making it taste just fine. Stockpile hundreds of gallons of water. If there is a crisis, trust me, you will go through it!
  15. Financial Information - Start to save ALL bank statements, credit card bills, other statements, etc. so that you can create a paper history of your financial transactions over the next 3 months. If computers get into a funk, you can PROVE that you paid a bill or made that house payment.
  16. Flood Prevention - If you have a sump pump that protects a part of your house from flooding, then move any and all valuable possessions to a place where water can't harm them.
  17. Sentimental - Valuables - Consider buying a fireproof home safe to store things that mean a lot to you. If there is a fire, there may be no water or phone service to call firefighters. This safe will work just as good AFTER the crisis!
  18. Face and Body Wipes - Buy some Wet Ones or Baby Wipes to wash your face and hands. These things will help conserve water.
  19. Exercise! - If there is a crisis, you may have to walk to places and do lots of work to keep alive. Get in shape now as there are only 17 weeks left!
  20. Reduce Frozen Food Inventory - If you have a freezer, start to use up the stuff in it. If we lose power, this food will be "toast".
  21. Books and Games - Get plenty of stuff to keep you and everyone else busy or else you will be at each other's throats!
  22. Medication - If you need medication, talk with your pharmacist now to see how easy it is going to be to get drugs. Don't buy ahead as some drugs have short shelf lives and you may WASTE your money!
  23. Caulk and Weatherstrip - Air leaks will rob your home of heat. Caulk gaps around window and door trim, check all weather stripping, etc. This will save you money even if things go well.
  24. Shared Resources - Talk with friends and neighbors and see if you can share supplies and resources. Create a co-op system that is fair and not too complicated.
  25. Wine, Champagne - Party Supplies - What happens if there is no Y2K crisis or it is a huge dud? Let's celebrate as it could have been a big deal. If it is a big deal, then celebrate when things are back to normal!

Column B282

Walk-Through Inspection Tips

Posted on by Tim Carter

Walk-Through Inspection Checklist
Tips & Suggestions

As I write this, I am currently testifying as an expert witness in a major lawsuit. A homeowner has numerous claims pending against a builder. Fortunately the homeowner took his time when he walked through his new home. He made countless observations and wrote them all down. If something was OK or perfect, he noted that. Obvious mistakes or flaws were also noted. These notes are being entered as key evidence in the court.

Many of the defects pointed out in the original walk through inspection were never addressed by the builder. This will help the homeowner. He has proof that the builder has been unresponsive. The detailed notes also show that the defects were there long before the one year warranty expired. As you might imagine, the notes are worth their weight in gold.

Serious Business

Can you remember the last time you bought a new car? You go to the dealership to pick it up. All you see is this gleaming assembly of steel, glass, rubber and fabric. The new car aroma is intoxicating. You are proud and can't wait to drive it away. Tiny flaws and defects often seem invisible.

These same feelings happen with new homes as well. The moving van is coming. You are totally stressed out. You are late for work or an appointment. You must resist the temptation and set your happy feelings and stress aside for several hours. You have a serious job to complete - the walk through inspection.

Be Prepared

You are going to need several things for the inspection: a pad of paper, pens, pencils, camera and film, a small compact or dental mirror, colored sticky dots, your detailed checklist, and a lot of patience. Block out at least 2 - 4 hours of time as well.

The walk through inspection is vitally important to you. It becomes the benchmark against which warranty claims will be judged. If you fail to point out a defect during the inspection, your builder may argue a year later that the defect may not be a defect! In other words, you may have caused the damage or, "...it was like that when we built it." How will you explain this to the judge? How will you prove your claim(s) unless you have clear, concise evidence that shows the defect was, in fact, not there six months ago?

The inspection needs to proceed in an orderly fashion. Start inside and work to the outside. Don't be distracted. Don't listen to comments or accept excuses from the builder. If a builder feels that you are a pushover, he might explain away every defect! You might hear something like, "Well, there was eclipse the night before we poured that slab. The gravitational pull of the moon caused the concrete to weaken...." Believe me, you may hear similar excuses!

Write Down Promises

As you proceed with the inspection, stop and write down any and all promises that the builder might make. Do not underestimate the importance of this! The written record of these promises will be a powerful lever when push comes to shove. What's more, when the builder signs your inspection form and notes that you have completed during the course of the inspection, they will almost be a contract. Be sure to date the inspection form and your notes as well.

If the builder takes a stance and argues that something is not a defect, WRITE down his comments about this item. These comments may help you at a later date should a disagreement occur or you find out from another source that the builder is misinformed.

Check Things That Operate

One of the reasons that the inspection will take some time is that you need to verify if everything works. Every single thing that is mechanical must operate. If not, you may be inconvenienced when you move in. Your life will be in mass confusion after you move in. The last thing you need are service people getting in your way fixing the disposal! Check sump pumps, appliances, windows, faucets, fans, etc.

Show Me The Money!

Money is a powerful motivator. If you pay the builder all his money and there are still defects to fix, you will have lost your leverage. The only motivation the builder will have is his honor. Based upon letters and email I receive on a daily basis, it seems that honor is on the endangered species list when it comes to builders.

You must do whatever you can to delay the closing or set aside a significant escrow to protect your interests. It may cause an argument. If it does, this is a sure sign that the builder may not have honest intentions. A professional builder will not hesitate to fix the defects before the closing or set aside money.

Walk - Through Inspection Checklist

The items shown in my Walk-Through Inspection Checklist are very important for you to look at when you do your walk-through inspection. In addition to this checklist, carry a legal pad to write extra notes. If you write a note, check the box in the checklist - this will remind you to look at your notes. In your notes, reference your entry by the using numbered item on the checklist. Things that are perfect are just as important as things that are not. Don't hesitate to include extra items that I have overlooked or failed to mention. Your walk through inspection is the basis by which all future complaints will be judged. Give a copy of the signed (by you and the builder) checklist and notes to the builder as soon as possible!

Don't try to do your own walk through inspection unless you are armed to the teeth with my 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed Walk Through Inspection Checklist!

Home-Inspection Associations

American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI)
Top inspectors join this group - tough entry standards and continuing education are required ... 800-743-2744

National Association of Home Inspectors (NAHI)
Loose membership requirements ... 800-448-3942

National Association of Certified Home Inspectors (NACHI)
Large international organization – members must pass examinations before acceptance … 303-502-6214

Housing Inspection Federation
Send them $165 and your dog's name and I think they will send it a certificate ... 602-998-4422

Column B277

Electrostatic Air Filters & Cleaning Tips

Posted on by Tim Carter

Electrostatic Air Filters
Carbon Monoxide Filters & Cleaning Tips

Do you buy things mail order like I do? If so, you have undoubtedly battled the sticky peanuts as I have. You know, those plastic foam doo-dads that look like peanuts? As soon as you stick your hands in the box to fish out what you bought they are all over you. They even stick to the thing you bought.

The plastic that is used to make those peanuts has the same attributes as the plastic that is used in the fantastic tribo-electric air filters. These different plastics maintain a static charge when they are just sitting there minding their own business! If you rub them with anything - including air - it creates friction. This friction increases the static charge.

In the case of the peanuts, they jump onto you or anything else. In the case of dust flowing through your duct system, the dust is attracted to the plastic webbing in the filters. It is an absolutely fantastic and useful attribute - well, I mean for the filters, not the darn shipping peanuts!

Slow Flow

Common sense will tell you that a clogged filter of any type will reduce flow. When it comes to furnaces and air conditioners, reduced flow can cost you money and it can directly affect the performance of the equipment. In the case of air conditioners, a clogged or dirty filter is often the reason why your outdoor unit freezes up. The refrigerant in the tubing lines is supposed to come back to the outdoor unit rather warm. A dirty filter means reduced air flow past the interior refrigeration coil and as such, not enough air flows past the interior coil to make the heat transfer! The outdoor coil gets super cooled and the humidity in the air begins to freeze on the coil!

What's to learn from this? Heating and cooling engineers can measure the flow of air past the interior coil and heat exchanger. As the flow is reduced it can exert pressure on a column of water. When the reduced flow creates enough pressure to raise the column of water one half inch (.5), it can begin to cause problems and reduced efficiency.

The ductwork, grill and register covers alone with no filter in place create enough resistance within the furnace system to raise the water column .2 inch. If you add a filter that is super fantastic or what ever, but has an initial resistance with NO dirt in it of .3 inch, then you are already in trouble. You want a high quality filter that has the least or very low initial resistance. The lower the initial resistance of the filter, the greater the dirt and dust load it can handle before it reaches the .5 resistance level.

This is why you always hear people telling you to change your furnace filters on a regular basis. They are trying to keep the resistance level down in the duct system.

Carbon Monoxide Filters

Some people - like my in-laws - still don't have smoke detectors in their houses. Many more people do not have carbon monoxide filters in their homes. It is nuts! These devices save lives BIG TIME. Just stop by any fire house and talk with a fire fighter. He or she will convince you in a flash. Carbon monoxide filters are really important since the gas is odorless and colorless. It can be present in a house and you don't have a clue. When you start to get poisoned by it, you simply feel tired and like you have the flu. Some people go to bed and never wake up - you know, the BIG sleep!

One of the electrostatic filter makers has a filter that contains a built-in carbon monoxide detector. It snaps in and out when you clean it. I feel that it is an excellent backup detector. If it senses carbon monoxide, it alerts everyone in the house since the alarm travels through the ductwork! I have this type in my own home and use it in conjunction with other carbon monoxide detectors in different parts of the house.

Cleaning the Filters

It couldn't be easier! You remove them from the slot in the ductwork, take them outside and hose them down. Simply follow the instructions included with the filter. Always use plenty of rinse water if you use soap. A residual soap film will inhibit the static properties!

Companion Articles:   Electrostatic Air Filters,  Carbon Monoxide Filter,  Electrostatic Filter Resistance Comparison

Column B273

Carbon Monoxide Filter

Posted on by Tim Carter

Carbon Monoxide Filter Company

I have two separate HVAC systems in my house. One heats and cools the first floor and basement and the other one services the second floor. Eighteen months ago my best friend - Richard Anderson (who happens to be one of the best HVAC people in Cincinnati, Ohio) - introduced me to electrostatic filters. The first ones I used were made by the Lifetime Filter Company. I was amazed at how much dust and dirt the electrostatic filter captured versus the old El Cheapo fiberglass throw-away filters I had been using.

After testing them for a year, I became a believer in electrostatic filters. Believe it or not, one of the original manufacturers of the filters is only 4 miles from my house and I didn't even know it! They happen to be a leader in the industry. They are also the only current manufacturer that offers a built-in carbon monoxide detector in some of their filters. The company name is Newtron Products.

I recently started testing their top of the line filter in both of my systems. It is amazing how much small dust and dirt (and I am quite sure invisible dirt) these filters capture. I can tell a difference in the living area of our house. There simply is not as much dust around as there used to be.

 

 

Other Electrostatic Filter Manufacturers:

  • Allergy Free, Inc. ... 713-337-3764

  • Dust Free, Inc. ... 800-441-1107
  • American Air Filter ... 502-637-0011
  • Permatron ... 847-451-0999
  • EnviroGuard ... 713-467-4477
  • Bruhow Industries ... 901-853-1357

Companion Articles:   Electrostatic Air Filters,  Electrostatic Air Filters & Cleaning Tips, a href="https://www.askthebuilder.com/electrostatic-filter-resistance-comparison/">Electrostatic Filter Resistance Comparison

Electrostatic Filter Resistance Comparison

Posted on by Tim Carter

Electrostatic Filter Initial Resistance Comparison

The following table shows you how different filters stack up against one another. Remember, you want a filter that has the lowest initial resistance as is practical. As this number gets lower, your HVAC system spends less time and energy making you comfortable. It also means less stress on the mechanical components such as the motor and the fan. Note that only one company - Newtron Products - offers a built-in carbon monoxide detector at this time. I imagine the other filter companies will follow suit as soon as they can figure out a way around the patent. Click here for a list of how to contact some of the companies in the table.

 

Company Filter Type Initial Resistance Built-in CO Detector
3M Filtrete Clean Air Filter .19 No
Air Purification Enviro Guard .20 No
Allergy-Free Filters Electrostatic .25 No
American Air Filters ElectroKlean .23 No
Bruhow Dust Magnet 90 .18 No
Dust Free Inc. Dust Fighter 95 .16 No
Lennox Industries Aire-Flo .13 No
Lifetime Filter Lifetime Filter .26 No
Newtron Products Contractor's Choice .08 No
Newtron Products Champion Watchdog .15 Yes
Permatron Corp. Electrostatic Air Cleaner .19 No
Web Web Plus .45 No

Companion Articles:   Electrostatic Air Filters,  Electrostatic Air Filters & Cleaning Tips, Carbon Monoxide Filter

Precast Foundation Wall Illustrations

Posted on by Tim Carter

Precast Foundation Wall Illustrations

Check these out! You can design anything you want and you can see they are made for all building situations. These illustrations are courtesy of:

Superior Walls of America, Ltd.
800-452-9255
www.superiorwalls.com.

 

 

 

 

Companion Articles: Precast Concrete Foundation Walls, Precast Concrete Walls, Precast Concrete Foundation Companies

Column B266

Log Homes & Sealers

Posted on by Tim Carter

NOTE FROM TIM CARTER - Founder of AsktheBuilder.com - posted October, 2016: I no longer would apply Defy deck sealer to any exterior wood that I own at my own home.

Log Home Companies &
Synthetic Water Repellents

What a popular topic! There are lots of folks who are in love with log home building. I can understand why. The look, feel and warmth that a log home projects is enormous. Massive logs give a subliminal feeling of security. Visit a model home and I'll bet that you can catch new log home fever quite easily. Be careful when you go. Ask for a mask!

Builders, Builders Everywhere

When you see the list of log home companies and builders that are a part of this bulletin don't think for a minute that it represents a majority of log home builders. In my own city, deep within the heartland of the USA, there are 4 or 5 listed in the Yellow Pages! There is a very good chance that log home building is alive and well in your area, it is just a best kept secret.

If you begin to talk with a local builder, ask about experience, association membership, and what the builder does to say in tune with industry changes. A good way to keep abreast of change is attendance at the annual log home building conventions and conferences. A paid subscription to several of the log home trade publications is also a good way to keep current.

Before you buy a log home, visit 3 past customers. Get ones who have lived in their homes for 3 to 5 years. Ask them how things have been. Ask what they might do differently. Listen to what they say, not what you want to hear.

Design is Everything

You can make a big mistake when you build your log home if you jump in too fast. The most critical phase of the entire job is the actual design of the structure. Take time to do an analysis of your wants and desires and you will reap huge dividends. Do you need help thinking of what questions to ask? If so, many have already been written. They are located in a fantastic publication called Log Homes - From Land to Lockup. This booklet is available from the Canadian and American Log Builders' Association. Be patient, you will hear more about them in a few moments!

One mistake new log homeowners make is to use too much wood inside the structure. If you do this, you minimize its impact. Large logs look best when they are mixed with complimentary materials. Look for this mixture when you visit model homes.

Synthetic Resin Sealers

The logs that make up your home will need protection from the elements. Many highly advertised products contain natural oils that are food for algae and mildew. The manufacturers add water soluble fungicides and mildewcides to stop your house from turning black and green, but rainfall leaches these chemicals from the sealers.

The better choice is a synthetic penetrating water repellent. This product is not a food source for organisms. Here are two that I know work well on log homes:

  • Defy 800-860-6327
  • TWP 800-297-7325

If you clean the logs first with an oxygen bleach solution, you will get better penetration. This fact was determined by an independent test performed by the Earlham University several years ago. You can purchase oxygen bleach at some Sherwin Williams paint stores sold as a deck cleaner called Cuprinol, at home centers that sell Wolman's deck brightener, and from me at:

www.stainsolver.com

Message from Tim:

Years ago while researching a column about cleaning decks, I discovered the wonders of Oxygen Bleach. It is perhaps the 'greenest' cleaner I know of as it uses oxygen ions to break apart stains, dirt and odor molecules. There are no harsh chemicals, and it works on just about anything that is water washable.

I decided to create my own special blend using ingredients made in the USA. In fact, the raw materials in the active ingredient are food-grade quality registered with the FDA. I call my product Stain Solver. I urge you to use it to help clean your log home. You will be amazed at the results!

The life expectancy of a log home sealer is much longer than that on a wood deck. The primary reason is two-fold:

  1. Water does not collect on vertical surfaces.
  2. The ultraviolet rays from the sun strike the logs at a shallow angle when they are most intense. A horizontal deck surface, on the contrary, takes a direct hit during the high noon hours when the sunlight is penetrating the least amount of atmosphere.

I have seen synthetic sealers perform very well for up to 6 years on vertical wood surfaces. The trick is to keep up with the maintenance. Don't let the penetrating water repellents wear away completely before you apply a new coat. You will find the logs will be easier to clean if you stay up with the maintenance.

Always, always stain the logs a light color. The logs naturally darken over time. You can always go darker but it is hard to go from dark to light!

Take Your Time

Before you start to build, you must educate yourself about log homes and their characteristics. The log home associations have vast amounts of literature. I also urge you to interview 5 current log home owners. Ask them what they like, what they did wrong, and what surprised them one year after they moved in. There is no need to reinvent the wheel. Ask questions!

Log Home Building Literature and Resources

There is so much information available about log homes, that you simply can't believe it. I feel the best place to get started is with the two associations that represent the log home building industry. They each offer some helpful free literature and point you towards additional resources. Their websites are also helpful.

The Log Homes Council offers the following pamphlets and research report at no charge. You can get them by writing to them at:

Log Homes Council
1201 15th St. NW
Washington, DC 20005
800-368-5242 Ext. 576
www.loghomes.org

Here is what you can ask for. Be sure to ask if there is any other great free information that just became available:

Log Homes Council Full Membership List

Ethics Code - Most Frequently Asked Questions

Log Grading Program

Research Report on Energy Efficiency of Log Buildings

The Canadian and American Log Builders' Association has some very wonderful information. The best thing they have is a 70 plus page booklet called Log Homes - From Land to Lockup. It is a collection of articles, checklists and the Log Building Standards! This booklet will save you hundreds if not thousands of dollars. I believe it can be purchased for less than $25.00

If you contact them they should send you at no charge two cool little pamphlets. The one describes all of the books, booklets, and newsletters they have. It also talks about their annual conferences, log building schools, and more.

The second pamphlet is a resource list of log home sealants and finishes, gadgets, services, magazines, schools, log building tools, etc. You will go crazy when you see this pamphlet.

You can order the pamphlets and the booklet from their website or write to them at:

Canadian Log Builders Association
P.O. Box 28608
Bellingham, WA 98228-0608
360-752-1303
www.logassociation.org

Companion Articles: Log Homes, Log Home Associations

Column B263

Log Home Associations

Posted on by Tim Carter
International Log Builders Association

Would you love to live in a rustic log home? Or go on a week retreat to one and open a new prize each day? I thought so!

Log Home Associations

There are two major associations that represent the log home industry. Both have great membership and representation. One of the associations - the Log Homes Council - is a part of the Building Systems Council of the National Association of Home Builders. This group monitors energy and building code regulations and they also are required to follow a certain code of ethics.

The second log home association is the International Log Builders Association. This group was founded in 1974 and its membership is a world-wide collection of individuals who are devoted to extending the craft of log building.

They also expect their members to conform to the best practices of the trade. To do this, they have published a set of Log Building Standards. It is a set of minimum standards that each log structure must conform to if you are looking for quality. These standards are excellent and each person who buys/builds a new log home should have a set in their possession. They are available by contacting the International Log Builders Association. See below for a PARTIAL list of their members. I tried to include just those companies that make log homes and erect them in a widespread area. Contact the Association for a complete membership list.

Log Homes Council
1201 15th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20005
800-368-5242 ext 576
www.loghomes.org		 International Log Builders Association
P.O. Box 28608
Bellingham, WA 98228-0608
360-752-1303
www.logassociation.org

Current Members of the Log Home Council

  • Air-Lock Log Company
    Las Vegas, NM 87701
    800-786-0525
  • Alta Industries, Ltd.
    Halcottsville, NY 12438
    914-586-3336
  • Anthony Log Homes
    Mountain Home, NC 28758
    704-692-9966
  • Appalachian Log Homes, Inc.
    Knoxville, TN 37922
    423-966-6440
  • Appalachian Log Structures, Inc.
    Riply, WV 25271
    304-372-6410
  • Asperline
    Lock Haven, PA 17745
    717-748-1880
  • Authentic Log Homes, Inc.
    Laramie, WY 82070
    307-742-3786
  • Beaver Mountain Log Homes
    Hancock, NY
    607-467-2700
  • B K Cypress Log Homes, Inc.
    Bronson, FL 32621
    352-486-2470
  • Custom Log Homes
    Stevensville, MT 59870
    406-777-5202
  • Garland Homes
    Victor, MT 59875
    406-642-3095
  • Gastineau Log Home, Inc.
    New Bloomfield, MO 65063
    573-896-5122
  • Heartbilt Homes
    Stockton, IL 61085
    815-947-3244
  • Hearthstone, Inc.
    Dandridge, TN 37725
    800-247-4442
  • Heritage Log Homes, Inc.
    Gatlinburg, TN 37738
    423-436-9331
  • Hiawatha Log Homes, Inc.
    Nunising, MI 49862
    906-387-4121
  • Honest Abe Log Homes, Inc.
    Moss, TN 38575
    800-231-3695
  • Honka Southeast
    Knoxville, TN 37924
    888-466-5273
  • Jim Barna Log Systems
    Oneida, TN 37841
    800-962-4734
  • Kuhns Bros. Log Homes, Inc.
    Lewisberg, PA 17837
    717-568-1412
  • Leisure Mountain Custom Log Homes
    Cameron, MO 64429
    816-804-5072
  • Lodge Log Homes
    Boise, ID 83705
    208-336-2450
  • Log Cabin Homes, Ltd.
    Rocky Mount, NC 27802
    252-454-1500
  • Log Home Cooperative of America
    Banner Elk, NC 28604
    704-963-7777
  • Log Structures of the South
    Lake Monroe, FL 32747
    407-321-5647
  • Lok-N-Logs, Inc.
    Sherburne, NY 13460
    800-343-8928
  • Model Log Homes
    Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730-9702
    406-763-4411
  • Moosehead Cedar Log Homes
    Greenville, ME 04441
    207-695-3730
  • Natural Bldg. Systems Inc.
    Keene, NH 03431
    603-399-7725
  • Northeastern Log Homes, Inc.
    Kenduskeag, ME 04450-0046
    207-884-7000
  • Old Mill Log Homes
    Pocono Pines, PA 18350
    717-646-1445
  • Original Lincoln Logs Ltd.
    Chestertown, NY 12817
    518-494-5500
  • Original Old Timber Log Homes
    Mt. Juliet, TN 37122
    800-467-3006
  • Precision Craft Log Structures
    Meridan, ID 83642
    208-887-1020
  • Rapid River Rustic, Inc.
    Rapid River, MI 49878
    906-474-6427
  • Real Log Homes
    Hartland, VT 05048
    802-436-2123
  • Rocky Mountain Log Homes
    Hamilton, MT 59840
    406-363-5680
  • Satterwhite Log Homes
    Longview, TX 75605
    903-663-1729
  • Southland Log Homes, Inc.
    Irmo, SC 29063-1668
    800-845-3555
  • Stonemill Log Homes
    Knoxvillem TN 37919
    423-693-4833
  • Tennessee Log Homes
    Athens, TN 37303-8156
    423-745-8993
  • Timber Log Building Systems Inc.
    Colchester, CT 06415
    860-537-2393
  • Town & Country Cedar Homes
    Petoskey, MI 49770
    616-347-4360
  • Ward Log Homes
    Houlton, ME 04730
    207-532-6531
  • Wilderness Log Homes, Inc.
    Plymouth WI 53073
    414-893-8416
  • Wisconsin Log Homes, Inc.
    Green Bay, WI 54307-1005
    920-434-3010
  • Yellowstone Log Homes
    Rigby, ID 83442
    208-745-8108

Members of the International Log Builders Association

 

  • Log Weavers
    Fairbanks, Alaska 99708
    907-455-6643
  • Ackerman Handcrafted Log Homes
    Carbondale, Colorado 81623
    970-963-0119
  • Occidental Log Homes
    Boulder, Colorado 80302
    303-440-8775
  • McKinley Bldg./Legacy Log Homes of Co.
    Steamboat Springs, Colorado 80477
    970-879-7419
  • Timbersmith Log Homes
    Arvada, Colorado 80004
    303-940-7634
  • Blue Ox Logcrafters
    Carbondale, Colorado 81623
    970-963-3689
  • Timmerhus Inc.
    Boulder, Colorado 80301
    303-449-1336
  • B & A Manufacturing
    Riviera Beach, Florida 33404
    561-848-8648
  • Caribou Creek Log Homes
    Bonners Ferry, Idaho 83805
    208-267-3373
  • Patrick Clark
    Tetonia, Idaho 83452
    208-456-0250
  • Clearwater Log Homes
    Hayden Lake, Idaho 83835
    208-772-7891
  • The Handcrafted Div./Gorman Constsr.
    Boise, Idaho 83702
    208-866-8793
  • Sun Valley Log Homes
    Bellevue, Idaho 83313
    208-788-4705
  • Jeff Pedersen - Logsmith
    Challis, Idaho 83226
    208-879-4211
  • Precision Craft Log Structures
    Meridian, Idaho 83642
    800-729-1320
  • Timber King Log Homes Inc.
    Lexington, Kentucky 40516
    606-293-5995
  • Andersen Log Home Co.
    Walker, Minnesota 55427
    218-547-3433
  • Barry R. Bissonett Construction
    Ely, Minnesota 55731
    218-365-4121
  • North Shore Log Homes
    Knife River, Minnesota 55609-0267
    218-525-9007
  • Minde Log Construction
    Duluth, Minnesota 55804
    218-525-1070
  • Senty Handcrafted Log Homes
    Grand Marais, Minnesota 55604
    218-387-2644
  • Cottonwood River Log Structures
    New Ulm, Minnesota 56073
    507-354-3797
  • Hilgard Log Builders
    West Yellowstone, Montana 59758
    406-646-7234
  • Eureka Montana Log Homes
    Eureka, Montana 59917
    406-889-3293
  • Old Style Log Homes
    Kalispell, Montana 59903
    406-892-4665
  • Bridger Mountain Log Homes
    Belgrade, Montana 59714
    406-388-2030
  • Mark Fritch Log Homes
    Sandy, Oregon 97055
    503-668-7130
  • Homestead Log Homes
    Central Point, Oregon 97502
    541-826-6888
  • Northwest Custom Log Homes, Inc.
    Bend, Oregon 97707
    541-593-5610
  • Oregon Log Homes
    Sisters, Oregon 97759
    541-549-9354
  • Logs & Timbers
    Rhododendron, Oregon 97049
    503-622-5316
  • Beaver Valley Log Builders
    Martin, South Dakota 57551
    605-685-2074
  • Stratton Log Construction
    Shaftesbury, Vermont 05262
    802 -447-0203
  • Cascade Log Homes
    Kalama, Washington 98625
    360-673-5080
  • North Region Log Homes
    Wauconda, Washington 98859
    800-797-4260
  • True Log Homes
    Everson, Washington 98247
    360-592-2322
  • Majestic Log Builders
    Deer Park, Washington 99006
    509-276-5791
  • Millroad Building Co., Inc.
    Cowiche, Washington 98923
    509-678-5560
  • Ojibwa Log Homes
    Winter, Wisconsin 54896
    715-266-3435
  • Creative Log Structures
    Spooner, Wisconsin 54801
    715-635-6251
  • Roundwood Log Homes
    Prince George, BC Canada V2K 3T5
    250-962-2302
  • Nicola Log Works, Ltd.
    Merritt, BC Canada V1K 1B8
    250-378-6244
  • Pacific Log Homes
    Vancouver, BC Canada V5H 3Y1
    604-524-1577
  • Norse Log Homes
    Lantzville, BC Canada V0R 2H0
    250-390-3344
  • Grizzly Peaks Log Homes
    Fernie, BC Canada V0B 1M0
    250-887-3270
  • Taylor Made Log Homes
    Comox, BC Canada V9N 8B5
    250-339-2043
  • Custom Log Homes, Ltd.
    Salmon Arm, BC Canada V1E 4Y7
    250-832-3690
  • Bullock & Company
    Creemore, ON Canada L0M 1G0
    705-466-2505
  • Legendary Logcrafted, Ltd.
    Wasaga Beach, ON Canada L0L 2P0
    705-429-1734
  • Norstruc., Inc.
    L'Ange-Gardien, PQ Canada J8L 2W7
    819-986-9282
  • Appalachian Log Homes
    Glenbrook, NSW Australia 2773
    247-39-5888

Companion Articles: Log Homes, Log Homes & Sealers

Column B263

Geothermal Exchange Cost Comparisons

Posted on by Tim Carter

Geothermal / Exchange Heating & Cooling
Cost Comparisons

Mother Earth fortunately has many splendid characteristics. One of them happens to be the fact that the temperature of the subsoil about 5 to 10 feet below the surface remains fairly constant year-round. The temperature, once you get to this level, happens to be in the mid-fifties F. If you start to tunnel deep into the earth, the temperature actually starts to rise.

Traditional Heat Pumps

If you own a traditional heat pump, you know that they produce a cool heat. This is just how they operate. The limitation is due in part to the fact that an air transfer heat pump can only grab so much heat in a given amount of time from air that is 28 degrees! Traditional air transfer heat pumps are most efficient when the outdoor air temperature is around 55 degrees or so. Now isn't that convenient! Imagine if you could surround the heat pump refrigerant with 55 degree temperatures all of the time? That is exactly what you can do with a properly designed and installed geothermal / exchange heat pump system.

Great For Every Building

Geothermal systems are used in commercial applications, schools, and all sorts of different places other than homes. Those places that are blessed with lakes or large ponds really have it made. As long as the pond doesn't freeze solid during the winter months, you are golden! Think. When you jump into a pond or a lake and go fairly deep, the water is very cool - say in the 50 or 60 degree range. Well, there you go...... All you have to do is lay the geothermal loop on the bottom of the pond. It gets buried by water instead of dirt. What's more, the transfer of heat to and from the loop is nearly 100 percent efficient when surrounded by water.

Column B262