Frequently Asked Questions

1. What type of log homes does Paradise Mountain Log Homes provide?

Paradise Mountain Log Homes, Inc. are proudly providing the finest handcrafted masterpiece's since 1978. Each log is hand peeled, hand-scribed utilizing the Scandinavian full scribe with the Canadian Lock Notch corner, while the remainder upon request are fitted with the wedge notch or single V saddle notch or double V saddle notch. Each log is fitted to the next, with no visible butt joints.

2. What type of log is used, and how are they dried?

Paradise Mountain Log Homes are built primarily with Engleman spruce logs. Occasionally we can use Douglas Fir, Western Red Cedar and Lodgepole pine. Engleman spruce is a very tight grained and light in color log and known for it's strength and minimal taper. The logs we use are an average of 12-14 inches mean diameter and are winter harvested when the sap is down. The logs are then air-dried through the year to a moisture content of 19 percent or less. As a further measure of quality, over 90 percent of our timber meets the highest or premium grade standard of the Timber Products Inspection Agency. The forest is then re-planted within 2 years, thus renewing and sustaining the forest.

3. Are log homes efficient, how are costs?

Paradise Mountain Log Homes are cool in the summer and warm in the winter. This is because of the size of the logs used, or the thermal mass. For example, an 8 in. milled log home has a lot less mass or cellular structure, compared to a 12 to 16 in. log. Using the envelope calculation method for R-equivalency when finished a recommended, have an approximate R value of R30+, with the roof and floors insulated with R38 fiberglass.

4. Can I design my own log house and, do you do custom design?

Almost 90% of Paradise Mountain Log Homes are custom designed. You can save valuable time & cost using our professional design, drafting and architectural team.

5. Are log homes difficult to maintain?

Of course we can't endorse all log homes, but we at Paradise Mountain Log Homes feel that if our blueprints and building practices are followed along with the right stains and sealers your log home will last for generations.

6. How difficult is it to finish a log home?

In our blueprints we provide complete details to aid the contractor along with a free consultation with technical assistance as needed. We make our log packages very builder friendly. In short, we service what we sell.

7. How soon can you deliver and how long does it typically take?

Normally delivery of a Paradise Mountain Log Home is between 60-90 days. A Sales/Purchase Contract signed and payment received. Large commercial projects may take longer. Scheduling is on a first come first served basis. The designing and drawing can require time depending on the complexity of the home.

8. Can I erect my Paradise Mountain Log Home?

No, due to the large size and weight of the log walls and log components we send a logsmith and crew to re-erect all of our log homes on your foundation and sub-floor, which usually takes 2-3 days. We also provide the Crane with an experienced operator to reassemble the log work.

9. What does my Handcrafted Paradise Mountain Log Home provide?

The complete log package contains all of the following:

12-14 inch handcrafted, Scandinavian Scribe logs with the Norwegian saddle notch or the wedge notch
Log floor joists
Log ridgebeam and purlins for your complete log roof system pitch cut & ready to accept framing
Support posts
Doors & windows are pre-cut and keyed
Thru-bolts on all corners & wall stiffening pilasters
Handcrafted, mortise & tenon log stairs & interior railing for stair & loft.
Complete custom drawings
Qualified log home setup crew for re-erection
Please see our Log Package page for a complete list of what is included in a Paradise Mountain Log Home.

10. Do you provide free estimates?

Yes. Upon receiving a small drawing of your plan with dimensions with the location of your building site, (city or town nearest you) we can give you an estimate of your dream home or cabin

11. What is the average cost per square foot to build a handcrafted Paradise Mountain Log Home?

The average cost per square foot on our log packages is $40 to $50, depending on the general complexity.
An average Dry-In package ranges from $80 to $100 per square foot. This includes the log package, all materials & labor for the roof system & roofing, doors and windows. This is the process that can make your log shell weather tight. The price range can range depending on the type of windows, doors, roofing, size of decks, and material used.
The Turn-Key package includes the log shell, the Dry-In package, and is completed by a contractor. It can range from $125 to $175 per square foot. The cost can vary with items like choice of cabinetry, flooring, and light fixtures, etc.

12. How are electrical and plumbing installed in a Handcrafted log home?

Since your log home has a 9 1/2" deep or 2x10 framed floor system built over the second story log floor joist there is plenty of room for all plumbing and wiring. The bathrooms do not have to be stacked as in the old days. Also, there is ample room for HVAC.