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The publication also discusses why solid wood construction is considered a “green building” technique. Log homes are among the few structures primarily composed of natural and renewable materials; some homes are even built with timber naturally felled by wind or fire. Additionally, when a log home is demolished or deconstructed, its component parts can be recycled into lumber for other construction.
To maximize the energy efficiency of wood’s thermal mass properties, log homes need to be properly sealed. “Prevention of Air and Water Infiltration — A Systems Approach” analyzes the log home as a true building system in which each component is carefully designed for maximum strength and air and water resistance. The research paper details which parts of a log home are most susceptible to infiltration, describes and defines different joint and sealant systems and touches on compatibility and durability issues.
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Two new research papers on the unique properties of solid wood construction offer extensive information to builders and consumers interested in this building technique.
