Log Size clarification for this newbie.

[LogHomeFeverDan]

Ok I'm cringing cuz this us probably a basic question but I need to wrap my brain around "size". When ya'll are speaking tops and bottoms of logs, you are speaking diameter right??

Second part, would it be safe to say as a generality, the longer the log the more taper? Is there a rule of thumb as to how much taper per foot of log?

Ugh, I"m already to the third question. I've read on here some members building a 40' X 40', is there a limit? Of course I understand we are limited by what equipment we have at our disposal. I guess a better question would be, at what length do logs become non economical to purchase?

[dvb]

Answer to Question 1: Yes
Answer to Question 2: Taper is measured as how much the log diameter decreases in a specific distance along the log. (IE. 1" in 10')
Answer to Question 3: Where do you live and where will you get logs? Generally speaking the longer the log, the more you will pay for it. Anything over 40' will be getting very expensive due to hauling requirements. However there are ways................(in class)

[Timberwolf]

1. Yes. A 12" top is the diameter through the center of the log.

2. No. Depends on species, climate, location, growing conditions, soil, light, water etc. I have some White Pine that are almost cylinders. Others that look like carrots. They all came from the same farm, but scattered across different parts (still not a large area) so there's no definining formula.

3. There's always a limit, but that too is dependant on many factors. For instance, in many locations, 40ft is the maximum length of log a commercial trailer can transport on roadways. Where I am, if you have the right permit, you can haul 60' (mine were all 60ft). Engineering comes into play (snowload, sesmic, etc, etc).

The class will open your mind to all the ways you can deal with, work around and plan for all these challenges and more. On the members side, we can help you delve in with the devil and all his details. ;)

[LogHomeFeverDan]

Thanks all. Will settle my brain back down and wait on that first class of 2013 to get scheduled.