Understanding the Bottom Line – Part 1: How Katahdin Prices Packages
The question on most of our customers’ minds is “What will my dream home cost?” The answer to that can vary, based on square footage, design, roof lines, whether a basement will need open expanses, and a host of other factors. Sorting these questions out and developing a realistic price is both an art and…
Private Well Tips-Water Treatment Options
Many Katahdin Cedar Log Homes are situated in rural settings and are serviced by private wells. Unlike municipal water systems, wells draw water direct from the ground and may require treatment to protect against contaminants as well as remove damaging concentrations of minerals. Test FirstIdeally when purchasing the land, you were able to inquire about…
Notes from the Construction Manual: Window and Door Bucks
One of the aspects of Katahdin’s log home packages is the completeness of the materials included in the package. One essential “included” element are pre-cut window and door bucks. These bucks ensure the proper assembly of exterior log walls. Including pre-cut bucks based on the specifics of your design is an important time-saver in on-site…
Soapstone Countertops – The New Granite?
Many homeowners are looking for new options for countertops and soapstone is a great choice, especially for counters in active homes where they may take a beating. Soapstone is durable and virtually maintenance free. What’s not to like? What is Soapstone?Soapstone is a metamorphic rock that is quarried in the Appalachian Mountains or imported from…
Green Tip: Contracting for Photovoltaic Solar Panels
Many alternative energy enthusiasts believe that this may be the perfect time to invest in photovoltaic solar panels to reduce or eliminate your electrical bill. We talked to Phil Coupe, co-founder of ReVision Energy in Portland, Me., about the benefits of solar, and how to find a reliable contractor. Right now prices for solar electric…
Fireplaces: Style, Function and New Regulations
Many log home living areas are centered around a fireplace, wood stove or gas hearth. Many new options are available to provide the warmth and intimacy of a fire, with clean new looks and interesting configurations. First, it’s essential to understand some recent updates in codes regarding fireplaces.Energy Efficiency and Sealing Recent revisions to the…
Toilet Tech – Updates in Function and Style
Just when you thought you had the bathroom all planned out, toilet technology develops a new way to think about the commode. We took a look at some of the new toilet options available and explored several new features, some of which will no doubt become the new normal. Less WaterWith record drought in the…
Media Storage – Wall sized or furniture-based
With all the electronics now resident in homes, developing a strategy for displaying and storing flat screen televisions, game consoles, DVRs and sound systems makes sense, especially when designing a new log home. Built-ins for Impact Built-in units are a popular way to go, especially if your media or family room is a focal point…
Bring on the Color! Native Textiles Provide a Rustic Pop
The dim winter months seem to set off cravings for the bright colors of warmer climates. In log homes, bright colors can add colorful accents through the home and balance the warm wood walls in each room. It’s easy to try a bold new color or style with small pieces. A colorful collection scattered through…
New Log Home Shows Added to the Schedule!
We’ve expanded our log home show schedule through April to offer folks plenty of chances to meet with local and knowledgeable Katahdin dealers and representatives. As promised we’ve expanded our exhibition schedule to include many more locations! Please note that schedules are subject to change; check our Events page for updates! Feb 14-16 Vermont Log…
Green Tip: Organic Recycling on the Countertop
Many log homes are built in rural areas with private septic systems. One way to ensure a healthier septic drain field is to limit the amount of kitchen food waste that is discharged into it. If you skip the in-sink disposal and opt for recycling your kitchen scraps as compost, you’ll also save on septic…
Winter/Spring Shows Are Off & Running!
With the first log home event in Atlanta happening just this weekend (Jan 17-19), the 2014 log home show season will offer folks plenty of chances to meet with local and knowledgeable Katahdin dealers and representatives. It’s early in the season, and we anticipate adding several of our popular and informative seminars to the schedule…