Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  What are the benefits of half-log siding vs. full log construction?

A: Cabins that are made of full logs are more susceptible to cracking, shrinking and air leaks. As full logs dry, they shrink and sometimes split (as all wood is prone to do). This shrinkage can cause gaps between the logs that allow air, dust, and insects to infiltrate into the inner space of the cabin. These spaces can be filled, but a certain amount of vigilance and maintenance is required to keep your cabin sealed. Half-log siding is also susceptible to change over time, but since it is applied to the wall and is not the wall itself, there are no cracks and leaks. This translates into less cost and maintenance.

Q: How much will it cost to have a cabin built?

A: The cost varies, depending on your location, the current cost of materials, and the finishes that you desire (countertops, flooring, fixtures, whether or not you want the basement finished, etc.). Roughly speaking, though, a finished cabin generally costs around $150 to $200 per square foot. This does not include the cost of the lot or lot costs, such as building permits, connection fees, etc.

Q: What kind of tiles and countertops may I choose from?

A: At the time of the contract signing, an “allowance” for such things as countertops and tiles will be agreed upon. You are free to choose any type of countertop you wish. We have accounts with several good suppliers, but if you choose a supplier we’ve never used, we will arrange to do business with them. If you go over your “allowance,” we will bill you for the overage. If you spend less, you will receive a credit for the difference.

Q: Do you have those sub-floor heaters under your tile floors?

A: Generally speaking, they are not normally provided unless requested. However, they can be installed if they are included in the contract.

Q: What kind of shingles do you put on your cabins?

A: We use metal roofing because it is more durable than shingles in the harsh mountain winters. The snow slides off easier, thus decreasing the load on the structure of the roof. Metal roofs are now available in a variety of colors and styles if you prefer something other than the roofs we generally install.

Q: I want to have some log furniture to go in my new log home! Do you make that?

A: We have many years experience working with logs. We can build just about anything you need.

Q:  Where do I park? Does the cabin have a garage? Will my guests have to park on the street?

A: Since most of our log homes are used as vacation homes, they are usually built with a small garage that residents use for storing snowmobiles, etc. Parking depends on the size of your lot and what it will accommodate, as well as the rules of the owner’s association where you live. We can build to accommodate your needs as long as it conforms to local building codes. Street parking is usually governed by the owner’s association. Contact them for more information on rules and regulations of the community in which you choose to build.

Q: Do you do work on existing dwellings, such as additions or remodels?

A: Yes, we do. Please feel free to call us with the specifics of your job and we’ll be happy to discuss your project.

Q: How long will it take to build my home?

A: From start to finish, it usually takes about 4-5 months to complete a cabin, depending on the time of year and the weather conditions. Due to the short building season in the Utah mountains, though, it’s a good idea to get an early start. We cannot begin until the snow melts and the roads are passable. It’s a good idea to take care of contracts, permits and engineering ahead of time so that when conditions are right, construction can begin.

Q: What other services do you provide?

A: We are a full-service General Contractor. We also provide:

• Septic design
• Site analysis
• Site design and layout