Traditional and homey, log cabins have this undeniable appeal, and there is something so rewarding about getting in there and getting your hands involved in the build. Building a log cabin will always involve finding a good timber supplier for the task at hand, and not every supplier is going to be the best. It is a good idea to do a little questioning before you settle on a certain supplier. Here are a few good questions you should be asking when choosing the best.
Are the same timbers similar color hues?
Color variations in timber pieces can be problematic when you want a uniform appearance to your cabin. Sometimes, the same types of wood can be slightly different in color due to how they are grown and the environment in which they are grown in. For some of the larger timber suppliers that get their wood from multiple sellers, color variations can be pretty drastic. When you are placing a large order and you are concerned about color uniformity, make sure you ask upfront if the same timbers are going to offer close to the same colors. If the timber pieces are a different color, the supplier may be able to work to find what you need from the same area.
Is there a minimum order requirement?
During the process of building your log cabin, you may find that you need smaller orders of timber for certain projects. For instance, you may need quite a massive order for the main structure but need only a few pieces when you start finishing up different points of the exterior. Some timber suppliers do have minimum order sizes, especially if the timber will be delivered. It is best to know this information in advance so you can plan to lump together those smaller timber needs with larger orders.
How is the timber stored before it is sold?
This is a hugely important thing to ask because if timber is not stored properly, it will affect its quality and resiliency for the long term. Make sure you ask the supplier how their timber is stored. It is best if it has been kept in a facility indoors in a controlled environment so the timber is not exposed to too much moisture, sunlight, or humidity. If the timber is stored outdoors, it should at least be kept covered and out of the weather.
Contact a timber supplier like Liese Lumber Co Inc for more information.
