laying the first row of logs is next on the to do list after you have put down some foundation blocks and level them off to the size of the house...in this case we are building a 28'x32' with an 8' front porch..photo's are on my first diary post on log homes...a trick to remember is to put a block of wood over each cement block so if you were to cut through the log you won't hit your chain on cement. So, once everything is level and square(very important)., you are ready to begin choosing the first logs. The sides go first and should be a bit smaller than the front and back logs. These logs have to be 41' long...28 for house 8 for porch, 2' hanging outside each end and 1' for cleanup later.
We use a chalkine on all our logs and a level to eyeball the chalkine when we go to release it when doing our lines. The first side wall logs must be chalklined so the center of the log is actually three inches inside the house. We want more of the log sitting on the wall so it won't roll off as easy and makes the house more solid on the foundation. The weight is now directly over the blocks or what have you. So chalkline center of the log at both ends and draw a line parallel to it 3" away. this line will be your centerline. All dimensions on the house will be affected by this.Remember that you are always 27' 6" from center to center on one wall and 31' 6" on the other because of this 3" offset. picture below
this will give you an idea of what the logs should look like when finished for the first row......remember that the c and d wall logs must be a little bigger so they can give a 1" lip over the side of the house to stop water and moisture from getting in.....the logs must also be cut so as to leave 1/2 the diameter ofthe next log going over it...to explain say the bottom log was 16" in diameter...if you cut in to it half way you would have 8" left over..the next log going over it would be 16" plus 1" for overhang so it will be a 17" diameter or bigger log....this will ensure that when you cut out your saddle notch it will leave a good solid log there.....i will show pictures tomorrow of that....any questions ,..just fire away.....good night...pickster..
