Building a Log Home From Start to Finish

You’re considering building a log home, but what’s the process like?  Let us show you!

What’s the first step?

The first step is to contact one of our representatives at out home office. Wherever you are in the country we will assist you in touring a Gastineau Log Home or Model Home and discover first hand the integrity and beauty we have to offer.

When should you get started? Your urgency is created by your own timeframe and the process of designing and building a custom home. We begin by asking you a simple question:

When do you want to move in?

The planning process begins with the answer to that question. From there we determine how to proceed. The pace of the process depends on the complexity of the design, local procedures, and your personal time frame.

The Process Timeline assists you in developing a planning calendar. Each step of the process is assigned a “deadline” that requires the next decision milestone. Your GLH representative will help you fill in the appropriate dates.

As a general guideline, here’s what to expect at each step:

 

Discovery

The first step is to determine if our product and services meet your expectations. First we explore the various possibilities in terms of log profile and species for full log, timber frame vs post and beam, a Therma Log home or maybe a Hybrid. Then we discuss your needs in terms of size, floor plan and style. Of course all of these considerations will be related to your overall budget. If you decide that our systems and designs meet your expectations and budget, you move to the next step.

Estimate

Your GLH Representative will prepare a kit estimate based on the design you have developed. This can be done in a matter of days. Depending on the complexity of your design, this estimate should be accurate within 7%. If the estimate and preliminary design meet your needs, the next step is your first financial commitment.

Preliminary Deposit

If you are working on a standard design with minimal changes, you may skip this step. If your design is a highly modified standard or custom, however, the Preliminary Deposit provides you with a set of plans, detailed specifications, and a firm quote based on your design requirements. You may use these plans to obtain a construction estimate, apply for financing, and begin to shop for finishes.

Depending on the complexity of your design, this step generally takes one to three months. We can move as quickly as your schedule dictates. In fact, if you select a standard plan with no changes, the Preliminary Deposit may be skipped entirely.

Most preliminary plan agreements cost $1644. This cost is credited toward your log home package when you place your order. (Larger homes, homes with more than 2 levels or more difficult designs may cost more than $1644.)

Purchase Agreement

Here’s your last step in the decision making process. Once your design is finalized and the quote is revised you are ready to execute a Contract which freezes your price and begins the final Design and Engineering process for manufacture and delivery. As you finalize financing and a contract with the builder, we are preparing final drawings and a materials list. The builder applies for permits, clears the land, and prepares the foundation. Now you are ready to call for delivery. Depending on the local building permit process and availability of your builder, plan on two to four months for this step.

Shipment

Most log home packages take two to four months to build.. Once the kit is “dried in” (tight to the weather), you may schedule your Quality Assurance Visit.  Completion time depends on if you are finishing the home yourself or have chosen a “Turn Key” completion by a General Contractor.  This can take from 3 to 9 months, depending on the complexity and level of finishes.

Move In

Here’s the day you have been waiting for! Your Gastineau log home is complete and ready for years of enjoyment.

Most of our customers take about a year to complete the process. You can take even longer if you like. And, of course, we can move much faster if you are in a rush. The important thing is to establish a timeline and follow the process. By doing so, you won’t feel rushed and will enjoy the process of planning your dream.