Black Bear Construction, LLC

KILN DRIED LOG HOMES

When it comes time to turn your plans into reality, we believe in using only the finest kiln-dried logs. Our craftsmen have spent years learning how to select the most suitable species of wood for log home construction. From cutting and planning to notching and measuring, each step is vital to producing the perfect construction package, but perhaps none more so than properly kiln dried logs.

We start by selecting only the highest quality Eastern White Pine. To minimize movement, shrinkage and settling in the timbers over time, we combine natural air drying and kiln drying in the manufacturing of every single Honest Abe timber. The drying process produces a more stable log and tighter joints for the construction of your log home.

By kiln-drying our logs, we remove moisture trapped inside, as well as any insects or larvae. We use large, variable temperature kilns to dry hundreds of logs at a time. Once stacked inside the kiln, the logs remain there for approximately three to five weeks. During this time, the temperature inside the kiln is slowly raised to around 170 degrees as computer controlled fans and moisture meters dry and monitor the logs.

The goal of this thorough drying process is to reach a moisture-content level that is best for the majority of our building sites. The dried logs are also better prepared to receive stains and preservatives you may choose to apply. As always, each of our timbers is stamped to meet national codes.

Briefly, some of the other benefits associated with kiln-drying are:

1. Kiln-dried logs are "pre-shrunk" before milling to a final profile. This process provides a uniform and stable log wall system with less settling and tighter joints. In fact, throughout much of the United States, Honest Abe's log wall system will qualify as a "non-settling" system. However, years of experience have taught us how to create a building method to account for minor changes in the wood.
2. Careful drying in a controlled environment minimized checking (cracking), which occurs in the kilns, before milling and final construction.
3. After kiln-drying the logs, trained inspectors can grade defective logs out. Logs used in the home package are stamped with a TPI standard of LogWall-40.
4. Heat from kiln-drying will destroy mold, fungi which causes wood decay, as well as any insects, their eggs or larvae.
5. Most pitch in the wood is crystallized during kiln drying, preventing "sap" from seeping to the surface after the home is constructed.
6. Interior and exterior finishes can be applied immediately following construction for more convenient and immediate protection. Applications may absorb deeper and last longer.
7. It's estimated that 10,000 pounds of water are removed from the typical home, significantly reducing the weight of the logs. Two people can handle even the longest logs during the construction process.