Construction Style Question

[KeithMN]

I would like to know if it's any more difficult or expensive to build a barn-style log home? You know, the old barn shape... It's a style I really like and wanted to get your input.

I know there was a log home of the month with this similar style and I wanted to know how feasible/more expensive it would be. Thanks everyone.

[rreidnauer]

Hi Keith,

If you mean, can a gambrel roof be utilized on a Skip style home, the answer is a resounding YES!!! It will pretty much mandate the use of purlins, unless you went with roof trusses.

Even though I'll be going with a straight roof, and my spans won't require it, I still intend on using purlins, simply because I like the aesthetics of them.

Costs may be higher, now that you'll need those purlins (two more logs and supporting structure) and the square footage of the roof, (the most costly part of a Skip home) will increase. Floorplan layout considerations must be taken into account for purlin supports. If you look at this pic of my model, you'll see that I have scabbed together several 2x4's to become the vertical support for the purlin. I'll probably change this to a parallam if they are rated for vertical applications. Anyhow, here's the pic: http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v328/titantornado/Log%20Home/cabin12.jpg

[Bronco]

Rod I have to ask why you have your 2x4 wall in the great room covering that big wonderfull support log??? Jim

[rreidnauer]

Rod I have to ask why you have your 2x4 wall in the great room covering that big wonderfull support log???

Well, the plan is to only be partially covered, more like built into the wall, so the back side will be in the wall, and not seen on the other side. It's just a working concept. I couldn't decide if I wanted to do that, or split the wall 50/50, or just build the wall completely to one side of the log.