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Species

Photo of great room of log home taken from loft showing geometric windows across the exterior wall with glass doors leading to a deck area. The ceiling is dark wood a-frame supporting wood ceiling

Eastern White Pine

Here’s why New World Custom Homes’ manufacturer, Honest Abe Log Homes, selected Eastern White Pine as the species used for wall logs, log sidings, support posts, blocking, porch posts, porch plates, porch rafters and railings.

  • Least resinous of all pines.

Few instances of “bleeding” logs

  • Stable – doesn’t shrink or swell significantly with changes in moisture

Less settling to contend with in log walls

  • Is a major species for reforestation.

Renewable resource

  • Affordable.

Lower cost for log package

  • One of the most used wood species in the log home industry.

Time tested and proven

  • One of the highest R-values of all wood species.

Superior energy efficiency

  • Easy to work and mill.

Results in a precisely milled, excellent fitting product

  • Moderately light in weight.

Easier to handle without the use of heavy equipment

  • Strong.

Especially suited for strong log walls

  • Warps and checks less than other species.

Fewer construction concerns and more aesthetically pleasing walls

  • Durable.

Dependable over time

  • Moderately resistant to rot and insects.

Properly maintained, will last a lifetime

  • Readily accepts decorative stains and protective finishes.

Ensures simplicity of application and longevity of finish

Douglas Fir

Here’s why Douglas Fir is used for heavy timber rafters, collar ties, wall-tie trusses, ceiling beams, girders and timber frame components.

  • Most plentiful of all North American softwood species
    Abundance equals affordability
  • Naturally dimensionally stable. Has the ability to season well in position.
    Virtually eliminates twisting of timbers
  • Superior strength to weight ratio
    Ideally suited for structural beams
  • Excellent nail and plate holding capacity
    Necessary in rafter design
  • High degree of resistance to deflection
    Important in the design of floor and roof systems 
  • Documented superior performance against natural forces such as winds, storms and earthquakes
    Peace of mind in potentially dangerous situations
  • Has tight knots and is close-grained.
    Knots less likely to loosen or fall out
  • Moderate durability
    Rugged, withstands abuse
  • Natural beauty
    Reddish tint provides pleasing contrast to pine within the structure
  • Readily accepts decorative stains and protective finishes .
    Ensures simplicity of application and longevity of finish