Hilltop Log and Timber Homes plans are simply ideas to spark your imagination. While the Stock Models are proven designs in terms of space and style, a large portion of the Homes we manufacture are Custom Designs. Many of our customers choose to modify our plans while others bring us their own original design ideas. Our Drafting and Design Department will work with your ideas to create your perfect dream home.

What is the R-Value of logs?

R-Value is the term used when referring to a material’s resistance to heat flow. The insulating properties of logs are defined as Thermal Mass which is the ability of a material to retain heat or cold. Log construction, without added insulation, has an incredibly high Thermal Mass which enables it to surpass the efficiency of typical fiberglass insulation. In an independent study, the National Bureau of Standards reported that Log Homes with 7" logs use up to 45% less energy in heating and 24% less energy in cooling than insulated wood frame houses. Hilltop Log & Timber Homes can supply Log Home Packages that utilize 8" logs which will increase this efficiency.

How do the logs fit together?

Every Hilltop Log & Timber Home is shipped  pre-cut, numbered and lettered for simple construction. The milling process forms a wide tongue and groove system for a perfect and consistent fit. The logs are secured with 12" lag screws which are counter-sunk every two feet.

What does "pre-cut" and "pre-drilled" mean?

As opposed to simply supplying random length logs for cutting on-site, Hilltop Log & Timber Homes cuts all the logs according to your plan. This includes window and door openings, corners and gable ends. Pre-drilling eliminates the need to drill down through the logs on-site in order to lag them together. Finally, all the logs are all identified by numbers and letters. All of this time spent in our Factory reduces construction labor costs dramatically.

What is between the logs to ensure a watertight fit?

Our tongue and groove system is enhanced with continuous strips of PVC weather-stripping gasket and a bead of PuttyLastic caulking. This ensures a watertight and draft-free seal within the log joints. To add to the water-resistance of the system, a drip edge is milled into each log to shed water away from the seams.

How are the logs dried?

All Hilltop Log & Timber Homes logs are kiln dried to a minimum moisture content consistent with industry standards . Being kiln dried, the logs are pre-shrunk which minimizes settling after construction and does away with the need for spring-loaded rods and designed gaps around window frames and doorjambs. In addition, unlike air dried wood, the kiln drying will eradicate insects and pests which may have infested the tree. Hilltop Log & Timber Homes chooses not to treat or "dip" the logs in preservative solutions as this process requires greater moisture content in the log.

How often does one need to treat the logs after construction?

The interior of a Log Home is virtually maintenance free after the initial treatment of varnish, polyurethane or oil. The exterior maintenance schedule depends upon the quality of sealant used and the climate. Adirondack Northern Log Homes recommends Perma Chink Products which is produced specifically for the log home industry. Generally, the exterior logs should be treated every three to five years which is similar to any stained or painted home.

How complete are Hilltop Log & Timber packages?

The Hilltop Log & Timber Home Standard Package includes everything with the exception of the foundation, fireplace, first floor finish material, electrical, plumbing, climate control systems bath and kitchen cabinets, appliances and roof insulation.

Do the packages include doors and windows?

Yes. Hilltop Log & Timber Homes proudly offers Andersen and Pella windows and Therma-Tru doors in our home packages.

What type of heating system works best?

All heating systems are acceptable. As with most residential construction, the most common are forced hot water baseboards and radiant heat systems. Many Log Homes are built with wood or coal burning stoves to supplement the primary system and add to the inherent coziness of Log Home living.

Is fire a major concern with Log Homes?

On the contrary, the National Association of Home Builders has concluded that the fire endurance and integrity of log structures make them a top choice. The solid walls provide thermal protection while the charring of the wood provides for natural protective coating similar to some fire retardant materials. The study further highlighted that the space inside the walls of standard frame buildings allow oxygen to mix more readily with the fuel, in that case the wooden studs. Most localities mandate that fire blocks are included within standard frame walls. Solid log walls require no such precautions.

What is the turn-key cost of a Log Home?

In general, total cost of a complete home, constructed on your site, will cost between 2 ½ to 3 times the package price. This does not include the cost of land but does include a budget for septic, well, fixtures, appliances, electrical and plumbing.

What technical and building support do you offer?

Your Hilltop Log & Timber Home Dealer will be on-site to take delivery of your building and to inventory all material. At that time, you will receive a comprehensive Construction Manual which answers most questions and describes, in detail, the building process. After delivery, your Dealer will be available to assist you personally with any questions which may arise. In addition, Hilltop Log & Timber Homes maintains a toll free number to put you in direct contact with the Factory.  Hilltop Log & Timber Homes offers free Log Raising Seminars periodically where you can learn virtually everything you need to know to construct your home.