FAQ: Can my log home be built in the winter? Part 1
“Can my log home be built in the winter?” is a question we are asked frequently, especially this time of year.
While our log homes look exceptionally beautiful covered in a blanket of snow, it is a common misconception that you cannot actually build a log home in the winter. Au contraire – it absolutely can be done! In fact, with the help of Stan Dixon and Greg Massmann (our dealers in IA and MN) we documented this log home that was built in the winter and look forward to sharing the results with you. Throughout the process we made a list of recommendations to overcome the challenges associated with a frigid, snowy build.
Over the next few weeks, we are not only going to explore these tips and tricks, but we are going to watch another log home dream come to fruition. We hope you will follow along.
The Foundation: Built in the Winter
First thing’s first. What type of foundation will you use for your log home home? Our log home packages can be built on any type of foundation from concrete block, poured concrete wall, ICFs, to pre-cast walls (like Superior Walls). The construction site of this Minnesota log home build is in an area where basements are not possible due to high water tables; thus the log home was built on a cement slab which is yet another viable foundation option.
Temperature restrictions do apply when it comes to excavating your site and pouring concrete for the foundation. It’s a no-brainer that digging your foundation might be rather difficult if the ground is already frozen. Moreover, the colder it is, the longer it takes for concrete to cure. An ideal 
temperature is 50 degrees Fahrenheit. When temperatures drop below this threshold, heating blankets or temporary enclosures may be used to ensure the integrity of the cure. These are added steps, but effective methods in getting the job done.
Conversely, record rainfalls in the Northeast have caused continuous excavation delays, thus the slight drop in temperature – and, yes, even some snow – have been a welcome relief in 2018.
No matter what the conditions, Stan Dixon and Greg Massmann are gettin’ the job done! As you can see, the concrete foundation and plumbing rough-in were complete before this blanket of snow fell upon the site. Proper pre-planning is always best!
This blog series is brought to you by Timberhaven’s dealers Stan Dixon (Iowa) and Greg Massmann (Minnesota). Stay tuned for FAQ: Can my log home be built in the winter? Part 2
