critter tight construction?

[knuckledragger]

Are log homes built using the Skip Ellsworth method tight enough to keep out unwanted/pesty critters? How common is it to have pest problems with a log home?

[rocklock]

Yes...
You may have seen or heard about log shrinking, lowering roofs by using Jack screws, logs moving around and the like.... Just like it always happens...

Well, I would not build anything like that... My wife would move out in a heartbeat... to say the least...
The LHBA has a way of putting logs togeather so they only shrink around their own axis - and it works... Bugs, weather and other critters stay out...
I know this doesn't answer all of your questions so ask away...
Dave

[rreidnauer]

I guess it depends on how small the critter. I wouldn't call the LHBA method "sugar ant-proof" but then, I don't know of any home, other than maybe an unteathered house boat, that would be.

What type of pest problems are you concerned about. Ants/termites in the walls? Flying insects? Snakes? Bats? Squirrels? Raccoons? Elephants? :roll:

Several dissusions of pest control have been addressed here, as well as several ways in the class itself. Tell us a little more about your worries, and we'll work from that.

[knuckledragger]

My wife is most concerned about roaches (she absolutely hates them) and mice. I am not sure that any building is tight enough to keep such pests out completely, but I wanted to know how the butt and pass method compares to your average wood frame house.

By the way, I am kinda hoping to never have to deal with an elephant infestation, Rob (I hear that they are bad about hiding in closets and under beds) :lol: but the area we have bought land in does have black bears, and I would like to keep them out of the cabin.

[rreidnauer]

The method of termite sheilding taught in class should keep roaches, and most other crawling insects at bay. Mice can be a bit more clever, so you'd want to assure your chinking is tight enough. (typically not going to be a problem, but it pays to pay close attention to details) There's probably a better chance of them getting in via a plumbling or electrical penetration. Bears might require hefty shutters on the first floor windows if you're really concerned.

Good news is, so far, I never heard of an elephant squeezing through a chinking joint. (or any part of a house :wink: )

[hawkiye]

No more vulnerable then a stick frame. Just like any house you gotta button them up properly. If where your building has a mice problem get a good farm cat. As for roaches they usually hitch rides in boxes or move in from the nieghbors place. If they are a real problem in the area may have to a pest control outfit come in or don't build there.

Blayne