Thermal Mass – Benefits Recognized

The Tahoe model

One of the first questions we are asked when someone visits us at a show is “what’s the 'R' value of your logs?" We then spend many minutes explaining the method by which the energy of the log is measured in thermal mass and not 'R' values per say. I would like to share some of this information and give you references that you can delve deeper into the subject with.

' R' value measures a material’s resistance to the transfer of heat from one side to the other. Logs have a relatively low resistance to heat transfer, and they actually absorb and store heat in their cellular structure. Thus taking a longer period of time to transfer through the material.
Thermal Mass is a material’s capacity to absorb, store and slowly release heat over time.

Back in the early 90’s the Log Home Council (LHC) set out to prove two things. First, logs have a thermal mass because of their cellular structure, bulk and thickness. Second, this thermal mass provides significant energy saving benefits because it releases heat back into the house when temperatures drop. The first study focused on heat loss through the log wall compared to a conventional framed wall. The finding was that leakage occurred in the same places as a framed house, at peak of cathedral ceilings, around window door frames and at tops of walls. It concluded that the leakage was not due to the log walls. The second study concluded that the thermal mass of log walls does significantly reduce energy use for heating in cold climates.

Therefore after 13 years the Nation’s Model Energy Code finally recognized the energy conservation benefits of thermal mass. The recognition was the goal of the LHC a part of the Building Systems Councils of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
The above is a summary of the studies carried out as interpreted by CNW Log Homes Inc; more information is available on the Internet or the NAHB’s research center.

For dealership opportunities go to www.cnwloghomes.com for more information.

Choosing the Right Log Home Contractor

Selecting the log home manufacturer who will supply your home is one thing; however, a good quality product is only as good as the team who will build it. Research prospects thoroughly to find the skilled team who will handle the job to complete your 'Dream Home' Here are a few tips to guide you along the way:

• Your log home dealer will offer you a list of General Contractors (GC) who they have used before.
• Make sure that those recommended are familiar with the log profile you have chosen. Someone who only does handcrafted log homes may not be familiar with the milled log or vice versa.
• Get references from their previous customers, they will tell you how the job was handled and express any concerns/praise they experienced. Ask if there were any 'hidden costs'
• Visit contractors current job sites, remember 'A tidy job site is a safe job site'
• Ask your GC for details of Workman's compensation insurance, including that of any sub contractors he will use. Your local building authority will advise on local licenses that are required.
• Consider being your own GC - although ask yourself these questions first:

" Do I have enough time, knowledge and experience to manage the project?"

• Be aware though that some banks may not fund a project without a formal GC.
• Choose and interview at least 2 GC's and make sure that these are people that you will be able to communicate and work with for the coming months. The cheapest is not necessarily the best if you can't communicate!
• Finally, timing is of the essence, if you go to the effort of organising your home supplier months before delivery, don't wait until the last minute to lock in a GC!

I hope this will help you on the road to your 'Dream Home'

For dealership opportunities please go to http://www.cnwloghomes.com/

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