Welcome to the January 2015 issue of The Oak Leaf! For new readers, this is a monthly newsletter that is sent by e-mail to those that have expressed an interest in Gastineau Log Homes. We use this as a way of communicating technical, design and industry information. For more information, check out our web site at www.oakloghome.com.
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On a smaller scale and for less money, you can use standard windows and still achieve the same effect. This is the living room of the Julianna design.
Trivia Question: The earliest windows were just holes in the walls covered with animal hide, cloth or wool. Who and when was glass first used for windows? (See the answer below.)
FOCUS ON GLASS! Last months Oak Leaf we focused on porches. This month we will focus on another favorite amenity in log homes: glass! Different types and locations. Cost and styles. New innovations. What are the types of windows? Here is a list: eyebrow window, fixed windows, single-hung and double-hung sash windows, horizontal sliding sash windows, casement windows, awning windows, hopper windows, tilt and slide windows (often door-sized), tilt and turn windows, transom windows, sidelight windows, jalousie or louvered windows, clerestory windows, skylights, roof windows, roof lanterns, bay windows, oriel windows, thermal, or Diocletian, windows, picture windows, emergency exit windows, stained glass windows, French windows, and double- and triple paned windows. Guess we could focus on windows for two months!
Some log homes have more glass than logs! Everything in this modified Seven Gables was focused to the view. The matching doors and windows in the basement/lower level match the upstairs glass. The living quarters over the detached garage capture the view as well.
Round vs square vs triangles: The three photos above show using all three types of windows in a living room. By price, the circle tops are the most expensive, with the trap glass next and the square or rectangle standard windows are the least expensive. For example, if you used trap glass in the Seven Gables vs the circle tops, you would save about $2400.
Is symmetry important to you? These windows exactly match the window widths above for perfect symmetry.
What is the difference between a double hung window and a single hung window? They look the same. But with a single hung window, only one sash is movable (usually the bottom) and the other is fixed. Both window sashes slide up and down in a double hung window. Single hungs are slightly less expensive but not as popular.
Kitchens typically have a window over the sink and that is it! The result is a dark kitchen. This kitchen has three windows over the sink, plus to the left (where you cannot see) there is a 6ft glass door which lets in lots of light. And view of course! The kitchen is the center of the home. Make it as important as the living room!
What is an egress window? Building codes require that windows in certain locations be large enough and low enough to allow entrance for emergency staff. Typically this is an issue in bedrooms as there is not a door for access. (If you have an exterior door in the bedroom there is no need to allow for egress windows.) GLH will always design your home to meet egress for national codes. If your local code requires a larger opening, we can accommodate that for you as well.
These are just some of the grille designs available.
This shows where the grilles can be permanently placed as opposed to a “snap-in” grille.
Grides, grilles, lites or munitions. Which is correct? Actually all those names are correct and identify the same thing. They have no purpose other than to be decorative. They can be a removable snap in grille, between the glass or on the inside and/or exterior surface of the glass. Remember that the simple colonial grilles are the least expensive. The fancier the grille the higher the price and longer lead time for delivery.
Windows are important in the bathroom, especially if you want to look out as you soak in the tub or take a shower. This bathroom overlooks a large lake and imagine how relaxing it is to look out at the water while you relax in the tub or shower.
Windows on an upper level can add a whole new dimension to the living space! This large bedroom dormer has two large casement windows with a big circle top above. Wouldn’t you love to have a bedroom like this?
Windows in a log home vs a traditional frame home. Most log homes have a LOT of windows and glass doors. Especially when you compare them to the “normal” frame home built today. A window costs more than the same square footage of wall, so this can increase the cost making the log home “appear” to be more expensive. Especially if you are using a high quality window for longevity and energy efficiency. Ask your sales assistant to help you find the least expensive way to add glass if you need to keep your costs down. We are here to help you build your log home to fit the budget you have established for your home. Part of the ambiance of a log home is bringing the “outside in” to your home. Let us help you achieve that goal!
This is the view from the loft, through the sun room, and out through the rear porch on a custom home in MO. The large panes of glass allow for a clear, open view of the property.
Construction Seminar Schedule for 2015:
Click here for information on our one day construction seminars.
Jan 31st
March 7th
April 18th
June 13th
Sept 12th
Oct 24th
Open Houses:
Remember that the GLH Model Home Center on I 70 in central MO is open 7 days a week! We have three houses there that you can tour!
Log Raisings:
Ada, OK on January 17, 2015. Call for directions! 9 AM to 2 PM
Log Home Shows for Spring 2015:
Jan 23 – 25 in Columbus, Ohio
Feb 6 – 8 in Kansas City, MO
March 20 – 22 in Indianapolis, IN
Answer to the Trivia Question: The Romans were the first known to use glass for windows. They were probably produced in Roman Egypt, in Alexandra around 100AD. They were not clear but rather more like blown glass flattened into sheets. It would be more than 1000 years before transparent glass was invented.
Quote of the Month: ” The whole purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows.” – Sydney J. Harris
