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January, 2006 About Custom Log Homes Ltd. Custom Log Homes Ltd. was founded in 1978 by Howard and Linda Williamson after Howard took a Log Home Construction Course from B.Alan Mackie in Prince George, B.C. We specialize in hand crafted log homes, post and beam log homes and we also teach log home courses for our local community college. We use full length, natural logs. We remove only the bark from our logs, preserving the natural contours, including the natural taper. Typically, our logs are 14-18" on the butt , 11 - 13" on the top and up to 50' in length. We fit the logs together using a method known as " Scandinavian Scribe-fit". This method was in use all across Northern Europe for hundreds of years. It is also known as "chinkless" because the logs fit together so tightly that chinking is not required. We use the same ancient techniques to fit the logs, but of course we use modern lifting (cranes) and cutting tools (chainsaws). Ours is a relatively small, family owned company, employing from 8 to 15 men, depending on the season, size of project and how many contracts we have. We are small enough to keep a handle on quality, yet big enough to handle larger contracts. We export all over the world. In overseas markets we deal mostly with construction companies who have specialized in Log Home construction. They do the advertising and promotion and they deal with the end-user. In effect we become a sub-trade and they are the "General Contractor", responsible for coordinating all the sub-trades. In these overseas markets, we quite often supply Windows, Doors, and a lumber package. Many North Americans prefer to shop for the Log Package themselves, this is their "dream home" and they have poured over and over the Log Home Magazines, the Log Home Books. They have educated themselves in the different styles and even some of the different techniques used by different builders. After selecting their log supplier, some choose to act as the "General Contractor" themselves, hiring and coordinating all the sub-trades. Others don't have the time or the inclination to do this and they will hire a General Contractor to deal with all the "nuts and bolts" of the project for them.
Most of our work is from "Custom plans". We do have some "concept plans", intended to illustrate some design possibilities and stimulate ideas. We very seldom build from these plans because most of our customers have very definite ideas about what they want and it very seldom matches our drawings. Some customers come to us with plans already developed in co-operation with a local Architect or designer. Others come to us with a hand drawn sketch and use our design services to develop a workable plan. At times, we also consult with Engineers or Architects to help them develop workable plans. We offer a "Log Shell" package along with several optional features regarding the Log Package itself. We also offer a Window and Door package, designed and manufactured specifically for our logs. One more aspect of our business is : Teaching. Since 1995 we have partnered with Okanagan University College in offering Log Home Construction courses. Annually, we offer a Domestic and an International course. These courses are suitable for those interested in being owner-builders, or for those looking to enter the Industry.
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