Warmth!

 Is a log home energy efficient?

Or also asked as "Is the wind gonna blow through the walls?"

     Basically, wood is a good insulator.  It has an R-value of approximately 1.25 per inch, depending upon the species.  A log with an average diameter of 14" would therefore have an R-value of approximately 17.5.

     A solid log also has a high thermal mass value. This means that a log wall will retain heat and radiate it back into the home.  It is this heat retaining thermal mass characteristic that makes log homes "energy-efficient."  (National Bureau of Standards TME Experiments-1983).

     The most important factor regarding the energy efficiency of a log home has to do with the tightness of the structure. Although poorly built log homes may initially be tight, serious drafts can develop if the builder has not allowed for shrinkage of the logs.

     Franks Log Work uses a shrink-fit notch also known as "Over Scribing" and incorporate other design features to accommodate the settling of the log walls which is critical at doors, windows and partitions.

     My research and experience are proof of the effectiveness of my methods.