Log Construction Manual. The Ultimate Guide to Building Handcrafted Log Homes

Customer Reviews

One of the finest log construction books in circulation!

2008-08-19
I read and re-read this fine work, incorporating its ideas and experience into the design and construction of my own home in the Alaskan wilderness. It is an excellent help for any contractor and builder.

a must read

2008-02-13
Wether you are restoring an historic log cabin or building a new one from scratch, this wonderfully illustrated book really helps you to understand what is inovoved in log home construction. Understanding the basics can also be helpful in planning restoration of existing log cabins. This book is a must read.

Log home building

2008-01-23
I purchased this book to help me learn about building a log cabin. This is a very comprehensive and detailed book for the do it yourself log home builder. After reading most of this book, we decided not to build a log home because of the work involved. In that respect, it was money well spent. I gave it 5 stars because of the technicality of this book. The author does seem very knowledgeable, and this book would help someone who is hand selecting each log and not using a log home kit.

Good information

2007-12-30
I bought this book for my dad for Christmas. He's planning to build his own cabin, so this has tons of information for him in the planning stages.

I wouldn't build with Logs without it!

2007-10-05
I own every book, set of DVD's and video tapes on how to build handcrafted log homes. The information that Robert has put into this book takes all the mystery away that all the others will leave you with. Some say it's too technical, but it really isn't. It is very concise and to the point. It is step by step from start to finish. No other book on log building says very much about sill logs. This is one of those mysteries the other books leave with you. It's a sure bet that you will ruin thousands of dollars worth of logs if you don't have this book by your side. Bottom line is, if you just want a library of books on log building, buy all the others. If you are really building a "Handcrafted Log Home" this book is a must! You'll be sorry without it.

Useful book

2007-07-18
The Log Construction Manual tells you what you need to know to build your own handcrafted log home shell. This is a comprehensive and thorough guide to how to scribe-fit logs to each other, cut notches, and build roof support systems of large, round, naturally-shaped logs.

The Log Construction Manual is packed with information that is available nowhere else — including the Log Selection Rules, Chambers' brilliant and simple method for choosing which log to use next; detailed instructions for building handcrafted log roof trusses; step-by-step directions for laying out sill logs for any design or floor plan; how to cut state-of-the-art compression-fit saddle notches; methods to keep notches and grooves tight over time; allowing for settling and shrinkage of log walls; scribing tips that pro's use; and much more.

extremely informative 2007-05-01
It is obvious to me that log construction is more than just a craft. I was not aware how fast things are changing in the art of log construction. The author seems to be on the cutting edge of log building technology. There is a lot to more to know before you start your own log home than I was aware of. I am now going into it with a much greater understanding of the process than I had before. I will start mine this summer. It will be beautiful. thank you Robert.

Log Construction Manual 2007-04-09
This is without a doubt, the finest book on the topic. Prior to purchasing this book, one complete shelf of my bookcase was taken up by books on the topic. While some are enjoyable to read and / or present great photos, I could have filled the "hands on" and technical side of such construction with this book. During my first few readings of the book (and I continue to read it) I kept asking myself "why didn't anyone else think of that" or something along the lines of "really glad I didn't build before reading this book or I'd have been in trouble". I've been lucky enough enough to exchange a few personal e-mails with Mr Chambers and can vouch for the fact that he really cares for the craft. This is not an example of someone simply after your dollar. Do yourself a favour, start with this book. You'll be glad that you did.

Log Construction Manual 2007-02-11
The best book I have read on the topic. This author is very detail oriented. I implemented the information imedeately into my cabin construction project. If you are planning on building, this is a must read.

Great if you like log homes 2007-02-07
I read this and realized something. This guy knows everything about log homes but hey I don't want to live in a dark wooden box. Moved on to timber frame.