Are log homes energy efficient?
Not all log homes are created and built equally. However, with the right manufacturing and construction practices, log homes are very energy efficient! The thermal mass of logs alone retain heat and radiate it back into the home, controlling and reducing cooling and heating energy demand. Read this white paper by the Log Homes Council for more information. » Search for more Green Building information.
A. Log homes have been proven many times to be energy efficient and are recognized as so by energy codes throughout the U.S. The logs and heavy beams provide thermal mass which retains heat, reducing energy costs. When looking for an energy efficient log home, pay particular attention to the width of the joint where the logs stack. A 12 log with a 5 joint is no more energy efficient than a 5 wide log. Also, the sealants used between the logs is critical to the performance.
Log homes have been proven many times to be energy efficient. The logs as well as the heavy beams in the home effectively serve as thermal mass storage units. This means that they store the warmth and then radiates it back into the room when temperatures drop. The joints in a log home are accessible from both the exterior and the interior. This means that you can completely eliminate air leakage in your walls at any time. Standard construction covers up the source of air infiltration and cannot be repaired after the initial construction phase. Six inch diameter logs are equivalent to an R19 insulation value. A 7 1/2″ diameter log will have approximately an R24 value. As a rule of thumb, a 7 12″ diameter log should perform equal to a 2×6 frame wall with fiberglass insulation, which is R21.
• Yes. Studies have shown log homes to be as much, if not more energy efficient than conventionally framed houses. Log homes derive their energy efficiency through Thermal Mass. Solid log walls absorb heat and store it. When the temperature in the home drops below that of the log wall, the stored heat energy is radiated back into the home. • Lodge Logs offers packages at very competitive prices. Log package prices vary according to log diameter, wood species and the complexity of the home you design. Within the construction industry, it is generally recognized that log packages account for 20 to 30 percent of a home’s total cost.
