From exploring our website I’m sure that you have noticed that we don’t provide just ‘run of the mill’  log and timber homes. The vast majority of the work we do is handcrafted work. The use of raw logs and the process of transforming them into a work of art is much different than just milling logs and sticking a label on them. One of the unique types of homes we offer are Post and Beam Western Red Cedar. So let me briefly explain the typical process of obtaining a quote for one of these beauties.

Most of the time we begin with a floor plan. This is the starting point. Without a plan to work from we really can only provide broad price per square foot estimates. When looking at plans remember than any of our floor plans can be modified and built in any of the five styles of homes we offer. So just because a plan is shown in stacked logs don’t let that deter you from choosing it.

Once a floor plan is selected then we begin with a log shell quote. For a Post and Beam Home in Western Red Cedar the superstructure of the home is logs. Between the logs standard finish materials or SIP panels are used. So remember as you look at the quote that this is just the log work, not the ‘stuff that goes in between’.

As you look through the quote notice if the log species is what you desire. Most Post and Beam quotes are done in Douglas Fir. Douglas Fir is less expensive, so if you desire Red Cedar the quote will be misquoted at a lower price. So double checking the wood species is important.

The next thing to notice on the log price quote estimate is that all of the joinery is done with Mortise and Tenon and Dovetails. Some post and beam quotes from other companies include metal plating instead of the traditional joinery. To us metal plating is a short cut and not a mark of a truly handcrafted Post and Beam home.

Another point of interest in a quote is if an on site technical adviser is included. This would be listed on the right side of the quote sheet, just below the pricing. The technical adviser is usually one of the fellows from our crew who helped to build and erect the shell in the yard. He comes to help with the reassembly process. A post and beam home can be very complex, so having the right kind of help is important.

And the last thing to notice on a post and beam quote is the price. At times we are able to offer scheduling discounts based on availability of space in the yard. So a standard quote may have a nice discount that you can take advantage of by planning ahead to book your home.

If the log shell quote looks good then we can proceed with a full dryin package. A dryin package in one that includes the ‘other stuff’ that goes between the logs. This would including things like framing lumber, windows, exterior doors, roofing materials, tongue and groove, etc.

One other note on with Post and Beam Western Red Cedar homes, is most people who desire this style want to capitalize on the rugged flared ends of the logs. Be sure that this is included in your quote as it is more expensive and will alter the base price. Flare posts are harvested with a portion of the root system in tact which is then worked into the overall scheme of the home.

Cowboy Log Homes