Building a log frame "boat" house

[pludwig2]

I'm looking for any comments/suggestions, do's and don'ts.
I would like to build a log frame structure on my shore line that would be used as a retreat for small gathering's of card playing and relaxing. My thought is a log structure with glass door walls on three side. Back side would be used as bar/storage. I believe a size of 14 x 20 with a small deck that spans over the water. A glorified gazebo.
Also, I would like to cut my own timbers that are on my property. I have some good size trees that are standing but dead... they appear quite solid.

[Klapton]

Sounds like a wonderful place!

First off I should say that this site is primarily devoted to the Butt and Pass method of log home construction, but I'm sure there's someone around here with some post and beam experience, who might be of more assistance. Having said that, there's at least a few things I can tell you.

First you will need to find out if your local municipality (county, township, etc.) will let you build on the shoreline. Depending where your property is located, this could range from simple to a major challenge. In many places, at the very least you will end up dishing out some extra cash in the form of environmental studies, shoreline development permits etc. Worst case, your lake could be home to some endangered caddis fly or something, and they won't let you do anything. So definitely check with your county planning department and find out what permits/restrictions are involved with building on the waterfront.

Water is the enemy of wood. However your structure is designed, make sure your logs (vertical or horizontal) are at least 18 inches away from the soil. Also, be generous with the size of your roof overhangs. This, more than any kind of sealing or anything else will protect your logs from rot.

I'm no engineer nor architect, (we do have some who post here regularly, and perhaps they will find your thread), but I do know that vertical logs can bear a LOT of weight. The distance between them and the minimum size of the logs will vary based on the species (though vertical column loads vary less between species compared to horizontal logs / girders), and based on the weight of your roof and snow load requirements.

I do hope that some more knowledgable and experienced folks will help you out here, and that the little bit I posted was helpful. Best of luck!