Post and Beam homes are the medium between the solid log home and square timber frame. Post and Beam allow for more flexibility in design elements than the handcrafted log homes. Shrinkage does serve to limit some design options with log homes that post and beam do not face. Each log used is hand peeled and then hand scribed to fit into the log structure. There are no machine cuts, everything is done by hand. This makes each home so unique.  

Post and Beam Ceiling, Queen Truss

Post and Beam Ceiling and Prowl Round post and beam construction allows for the roundness of the log to be seen on the inside and the outside of the home. The round posts are the superstructure and then framing lumber is used between the logs. Each of the log beams are the skeleton of the home that supports the framing lumber. The logs are flattened and grooved for the dimensional lumber and flooring. Additionally each time an interior wall intersects with the log structure the logs are pre- notched for the interior wall and finish material. If drywall will be hung on a particular wall, then there will be a channel cut into the log for the drywall to slide into. This greatly reduces time and labor on the job site. Mortise and Tenon Joinery.  

Hand Set Log

Log species for the post and beam homes include Western Red Cedar(top left of photo), Douglas Fir (top right), and Engelmann Spruce (bottom). Each has its own characteristics. One of the most noticeable is the color. Western Red Cedar gets its name from the red hue that is visible when the bark is removed. The Douglas Fir is a lighter color than the Western Red Cedar, but still retains more color than the Engelmann Spruce. Engelmann Spruce has a very clear white color.  

Western Red Cedar, Douglas Fir, Engelmann Spruce-front

All logs are lifted with slings to prevent marking on the logs. The full super structure of these homes is completely assembled in the yard at Lake Country. Then they are hand sanded on all log surfaces, smoothing knots and buffing out any chain saw marks or scars. We have had many contractors comment that they can’t believe how smooth the logs are to touch. Log posts for our round post and beam construction are typically have a mean diameter of 13 inches and can range from 12 to 14. The logs are flattened and prepared for finish material and framing lumber.  

Mortise and Tenons

When a second floor is included in a plan, round log floor joist beams are used to support the upper floor. Double Log Beam is shown here.  

Double Log Beams Supporting Second Floor

For ease of assembly on the job site, the ridge beam and the roof purlins are pitch cut (angle cut) for the roof system. Notice the ridge beam (the highest one) has two different angles cut into it. The purlins each have one. Log trusses are also used for these homes. Here is example an of a hand crafted log a scissor truss and a gable truss. The scissor truss allows for more lift to the interior ceiling. The gable truss allows for a simply stunning open ceiling.  

Scissor Log Trusses

If a home has a second floor or open loft, the package will include hand crafted railing for the stairs and loft or balcony. Western Red Cedar is a popular choice for these touches of accent to a home. Tuck cuts are incorporated into the logs for interior finish framing material.  

Post and Beam Superstructure

 Logs are also flattened for the gable ends of the second floor so that they will accept the framing materials.  

Post and Beam Home

Post and beam are the type of home still gives the rustic log feel, but also allows for creativity. More homeowners are choosing this old world style of construction for everything from home additions to mansions.  

Post and Beam Garage Wing