Claudia Johnson
You're Right to Want a Log or Timber Home 3 messages Josh Beasley
Dear Claudia,
You're right to want a log or timber home! Over the next few emails, we would like to share the top reasons you are correct.
Here are the first three...
1. Trees Grow Back When a home is made from solid logs, you are effectively taking the carbon contained in those logs out of environmental circulation over the entire life of the home. Eastern White Pine, which is used for Honest Abe's log homes, is a major species for reforestation, making it a plentiful and renewable resource.
2. They Last a LONG Time If there's any question about the durability of log and timber structures, some still in use today in Europe and Russia have been standing almost a millennium.
3. They're Not Scared of Mother Nature The log and timber home industry has countless stories of these homes surviving the worst Mother Nature deliver. In recent years a couple of Honest Abe's customers survived tornados with their homes and their lives. Read one of the stories here: Alabama Log Home Survives Tornado. We don't want to overwhelm you or your inbox, so in a couple of weeks we'll send more reasons from our list. The information we have suggests you are doing research right now and do not have plans to build soon. However, if you have questions or if we may help in any way, simply reply to this email or call Honest Abe Independent Dealer at .
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Honest Abe Log Homes 9995 Clay County Highway Moss, Tennessee 38575 United States (800) 2313695
Josh Beasley
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Josh Beasley
[Quoted text hidden] Claudia Johnson
Log & Timber Homes, A Natural Fit 1 message Josh Beasley
Dear Claudia,
There's a great download in #3 below, so don't miss it. A couple of weeks ago we encouraged you that a log or timber home is a good idea and shared the first three points. Here are a few more...
1. They're a Natural Fit Since this organic building material comes from nature, the resulting structures blend into the topography, naturally integrating right into the landscape rather than being awkwardly imposed onto it. Your home will be a beautiful fit to your property.
2. Little Things Matter Hanging a picture in a home with drywall is a big ordeal, involving a stud finder, a hammer or drill and bruised fingers. Homeowners report the simplicity of hanging a picture is one the simple joys of living in a log and timber home.
3. Wood is Warm and Energy Efficient The thermal mass of logs helps keep inside temperatures of homes comfortable in all seasons, allowing log walls to collect and store energy, then radiate it back into the home. Provided the home is sealed properly, you can have a super energy efficient home, saving 15 to 20 percent more energy efficient than a conventional home over a lifetime. Want to learn more about thermal mass? This document by the Log Timber Homes Council is a great resource for just that.
We still have more reasons to share with you! In a couple of weeks we'll send the next set, so be on the look out. The information we have suggests you are doing research right now and do not have plans to build soon. However, if you have questions or if we may help in any way, simply reply to this email or call Honest Abe Independent Dealer at .
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Honest Abe Log Homes 9995 Clay County Highway Moss, Tennessee 38575 United States (800) 2313695 Claudia Johnson
More about how you are right. 1 message Josh Beasley
Dear Claudia,
Our last couple of emails have been to encourage that a log or timber home is right for you. Here, we'll share with you the last in this series.
1. You Can Relax Log homes are often quieter than stick built homes thanks to the same thermal mass that provides energy efficiency and the sound deadening affects of wood walls. If you are interested, we even have a technical white paper prepared by the Log Timber Homes Council.
2. You Can Have Rustic and High Tech While rugged is appealing, roughing it is not. That's why today's log and timber homeowners increasingly want a hideaway that's connected, automated and secure. Many log and timber homeowners are adding backup generators (in case of power outages), a security system and a wiring system that can accommodate high-speed video, voice and data.
3. You Stay Ahead of Problems If you're worried about mold, mildew or insect infestation, then a log and timber home offers clear advantages since you'll be able to see anything just by taking a stroll around your home and visually inspecting the logs. This quick detection leads to a less costly remedy. In contrast to a conventional home where the sealed wall cavities can be a hidden refuge for mold, mildew and insect infestation, which can cause far more damage before its detected.
4. Craftsmanship is Obvious Conventional custom homes can have their fare share of beautiful carpentry, but this is typically limited to trim and millwork. In log and timber homes, examples of fine craftsmanship are at every turn, in the handcrafted staircase with its branch-like spindles and balustrade, in the hand- scribed large timbers overhead in the cathedral ceiling, in the one-of-a-kind light fixtures.
We hope these points have been useful. It's our desire to help you decide if a log or timber home is for you. Want to learn even more? We highly suggest one of our log raising events.
Independent dealership of Honest Abe products.
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Join Our Facebook Community 2 messages Josh Beasley
Dear Claudia,
If you are among the millions of people on the planet who use social media, we'd like to invite you to FOLLOW us on Facebook.
On our page we've created a community for people who love log and timber homes. Some of the 6,000 or so Friends of Honest Abe Log Homes are people who have already bought log homes. Some are in the process of building, while others have lived in their log homes for years. They share photos, experiences and insights.
Visit our Facebook Page
Other Friends are Honest Abe Independent Dealers from our extensive national network. We have Friends who provide services or manufacture products for the log home industry. It's fascinating, informative and inspiring to see how our Friends provide advice and encouragement to one another.
The Honest Abe Facebook page is a place for our company to engage daily with our Friends. We share company news, invitations to events, ideas, photos, floor plans, tips and videos.
Take a moment to visit our Facebook page. We hope you'll Like us and become part of the community and conversation.
Independent dealership of Honest Abe products.
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Honest Abe Log Homes 9995 Clay County Highway Moss, Tennessee 38575 United States (800) 2313695
Josh Beasley
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Kiln Drying: An Important Step 1 message Josh Beasley
Dear Claudia,
We're often asked why Honest Abe invests the time and expense in kiln drying our logs used in the log and timber frame homes we manufacture. The answer is simple. We want to produce the most stable and durable home possible for our customers.
Over the next couple of emails, we'll share with you seven simple reasons Honest Abe chooses kiln drying.
Here are the first three:
1. Uniformity and stability. Kiln-dried logs are "pre-shrunk" before milling to a final profile to create a uniform and stable log wall system with less settling and tighter joints. In fact, throughout much of the United States, Honest Abe's log wall system will qualify as a "non-settling" system. However, years of experience have taught us how to create a building method to account for minor changes in the wood. 2. Fewer checks. Careful drying in a controlled environment minimizes checking (cracking), which occurs in the kilns, before milling and during final construction.
3. Grading Accuracy. After kiln-drying the logs, trained inspectors can grade defective logs out. Logs selected for use in your home package are stamped with a TPI standard of LogWall-40. In many areas, building with graded logs is a must to meet building codes. Thankfully, Honest Abe has that requirement taken care of for you.
Do you have questions about these? We would be happy to discuss the points further. Just give me a call at the number below.
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Honest Abe Log Homes 9995 Clay County Highway Moss, Tennessee 38575 United States (800) 2313695 Claudia Johnson
Benefits of Dry Logs 1 message Josh Beasley
Dear Claudia,
A few weeks ago we shared with you benefits of kiln dried logs.
We're often asked why Honest Abe invests the time and expense in kiln drying our logs used in the log and timber frame homes we manufacture. The answer is simple. We want to produce the most stable and durable home possible for our customers.
Here are the last four points:
1. Kills Pests. Heat from kiln-drying will destroy any fungi that cause wood decay, as well as any insects, their eggs or larvae.
2. Stops Sap. Most pitch in the wood is crystallized during kiln drying, preventing "sap" from seeping to the surface after the home is constructed.
3. Smooth, Durable Finishes. Interior and exterior finishes can be applied immediately following construction for more convenient and immediate protection. Applications may absorb deeper and last longer.
4. Lighter Logs. It's estimated that 10,000 pounds of water are removed from the typical home, significantly reducing the weight of the logs. Two people can handle even the longest logs during the construction process. You can expect stability and durability from our homes. Kiln drying is one of our choices that makes an Honest Abe Log Home your forever home.
To review all of these points, visit our website at: http://www.honestabe.com/kiln driedlogs/
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Honest Abe Log Homes 9995 Clay County Highway Moss, Tennessee 38575 United States (800) 2313695 Claudia Johnson
Worth a watch... 1 message Josh Beasley
Dear Claudia,
We thought you might enjoy a little log and timber home inspiration today. Check out this amazing video...
Please give me a call or reply to this email if you have questions about this Honest Abe Log Home or any other. Thanks so much!
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Honest Abe Log Homes 9995 Clay County Highway Moss, Tennessee 38575 United States (800) 2313695 Claudia Johnson
What kind of wood? 1 message Josh Beasley
Dear Claudia,
As you have been researching, you have probably found there are a number of wood types used to build log and timber homes. While many different woods create beautiful homes, Honest Abe has our favorites - selected over time for a reason.
At Honest Abe we believe the species of wood we use in manufacturing a log or timber frame home is important. Eastern White Pine has proven to be the wood with the most favorable characteristics and has been used exclusively by Honest Abe since early in our 38-year history. We use it for wall logs, log sidings, posts, porch plates, porch rafters, railings and interior trim.
For our exposed heavy timber rafters, collar ties, wall-tie trusses, ceiling beams, girders and timber frame components, we use Douglas Fir. If you want to know more about the characteristics of Eastern White Pine and Douglas Fir and why each of these species is beneficial in log and timber home construction, visit the Honest Abe Log Home Species page online.
You can expect stability and durability from our homes. Wood species is one of our choices that makes an Honest Abe Log Home your forever home.
Independent dealership of Honest Abe products.
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Honest Abe Log Homes 9995 Clay County Highway Moss, Tennessee 38575 United States (800) 2313695 Claudia Johnson
Men are from Mars, Women from Venus 1 message Josh Beasley
Dear Claudia,
We don't want to perpetuate any stereotypes here, and I certainly do not want to start any arguments, but it's just a fact that men and women have different priorities when it comes to planning a new home.
In our experience working with dozens of couples, we've noticed that women are usually much more concerned about the design of the kitchen and dining area than their partner, unless, of course, it's the man who handles most of the culinary responsibilities. Women like to plan the master suite, and that includes the closets, dressing areas and master bath. Actually, women are more concerned with all the bedroom planning, especially for the children.
Men tend to focus on the areas the most envision themselves using. They're very outspoken about the den, game room or bar. They usually have a plan for the outdoor buildings like garages or carports, sheds or workshops. Guys are surprisingly vocal about the bathroom they will be using most, or at least about the area where they will be getting ready for the day. Many homes now have offices, and both partners expect to plan that space together. However, we're even seeing his and hers offices in many homes now. Spaces for relaxation as a couple or family are clearly a joint effort. These include patios and porches, outdoor entertainment areas, pools and spas and the family or great room.
Of course, there are no rules here. Every situation is different, but it may be helpful to discuss this subject early on. As exciting as it is to build a home, admittedly, it can be stressful. Exploring each person's desires, ideas and expectations while recognizing their interests, strengths and passions can make the process more harmonious and produce a home both people imagined.
The whole purpose in bringing this up is to help you keep on track, to help everyone come together on a plan and finally to stress that I've helped many customers with this process. I would consider it a privilege to help you as well. If I may, please reply, or give me a call at (931) 2583648.
Independent dealership of Honest Abe products.
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Honest Abe Log Homes 9995 Clay County Highway Moss, Tennessee 38575 United States (800) 2313695 Claudia Johnson
Everyone's favorite cabin... 1 message Josh Beasley
Dear Claudia,
This month we would like to share one of our most popular Honest Abe homes with you. The Alderson Custom Cabin, was designed specifically for an Honest Abe customer. The home's timeless features, modest size and versatile floor plan make it a perennial favorite with customers looking for a traditional cabin that can be as perfect by the sea as on a mountain summit.
Even if a small cabin is not what you're planning, you'll enjoy reading a story called "A Patient Pursuit" that tells how the plan emerged. Then take at look at the accompanying photo gallery to see how the Alderson family finished and decorated the cabin.
Call us if you have an idea for a home you'd like to create from your own imagination!
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Honest Abe Log Homes 9995 Clay County Highway Moss, Tennessee 38575 United States (800) 2313695 Claudia Johnson
Land to build on. 1 message Josh Beasley
Dear Claudia,
It has been a month already!
Last time we gave you some tips as you are looking for land to build on. We're providing more here, plus a handy PDF you can save for later use (link is at the bottom). Do you already have land to build on? If YES, please click here to let us know. In doing so, we'll change the information I'm sending you.Here are the rest of the tips...
Soil, Terrain and Perc Tests. How deep is the topsoil? If your site is on the side of a mountain, the views can be dramatic, but if it only has a thin coating of topsoil, contractors will have to blast bedrock to excavate. This will quickly increase foundation construction costs. Also, if you are installing a septic system you will have to discover if the site will pass a "perc" or percolation test. Planned Growth. Has the state you want to live in passed any kind of growth management act? A few states have. Typically these plans delineate where growth will be channeled over the next 25 to 50 years, including community density, building plans, transportation growth and more. If there isn't a statewide law on growth, the local city or county council could determine where growth will be allowed. Either way, you must make some judgment on whether you trust a community's intentions with the property you will spending your money on.
Transportation and Access. Analyze the access to your building site (is there more than one road in?) and the community. Ideally, you'll want well-maintained roads and highways with a regional airport within an hour or two drive. But you don't want so much traffic congestion that it affects pollution levels and noise.
Contingency Agreement. After finding a lot you are seriously considering purchasing, work out a contingency agreement with the seller. These agreements indicate to the seller that you are serious enough to put a deposit down (usually nonrefundable) while giving you enough time to determine if the property is a build-able lot. These contracts usually run from 30 to 90 days. If the seller does not agree to grant such a contingency, then there may be something wrong with the property that he or she is reluctant to share.
As promised, download this PDF of "How to Locate Land for your Home" to save for later use. It may come in as a handy reminder. Just reply or give us a call if we can put you in contact with anyone to help you find that perfect place to call home!
Independent dealership of Honest Abe products. Claudia Johnson
Land you'll love... 1 message Josh Beasley
Dear Claudia,
One of the biggest first steps toward building a log or timber home is to find and purchase land to build on. The earlier this is done, the better. If you plan to build in the next few years, you should be looking now.
Do you already have land to build on? If YES, please click here to let me know. In doing so, I'll change the information I'm sending you.
Over the next couple of emails, I'd like to share a few thoughts as you move forward with finding that perfect place to call home.
Quality of Life. Getting a great deal on price is only one factor to be considered. Do you like the view? How far away are markets, medical and emergency services and other necessities? Will weather affect access? Local Economy Taxes. The health of the local economy will influence your land decision. Grinding poverty can have just as dramatic impact on the landscape as an influx of billionaires. Which way is your community headed? Research the current tax rate. A community needs some taxes to support infrastructure such as police, fire protection and water and sewer. However, tax rates in some resort areas have been known to dramatically increase, which can be a serious threat if you are on a fixed income in your retirement years.
Zoning Density. Start by visiting the local building department, either on the city or county level. Research the zoning and density requirements that surround your potential building site. Understand how your building site and the community as a whole will be impacted by nearby development.
Federal State Lands. If you're shopping for pristine land, look for areas that fall under federally protected land and wildlife rules. Even if land is privately owned, it will be subject to certain restrictions to protect endangered species. Critical habitats, including migration routes for eagles, spotted owls or bats are typically exempt from large-scale developments, large power lines or highways.
Community Covenants. Covenant-controlled communities limits what you can do with your own property. This seems intrusive at first glance, but it's the only way for developers to tread lightly on the land and preserve their clients' investments in the process. If there are no land use rules, your neighbors may invite every cousin to park an RV in their front yard--forever. Neighbors can be more than an annoyance; they can detract from the value of your investment.
We hope some of this information helps as you are looking for property. Of course, we're in contact with a number of realtors and others who can offer assistance, too. Next month I'll share the rest of my tips, plus provide them all in a handy download. Just reply or give us a call if we can put you in contact with anyone.
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Honest Abe Log Homes 9995 Clay County Highway Moss, Tennessee 38575 United States (800) 2313695 Claudia Johnson
Learning Opportunities 1 message Josh Beasley
Dear Claudia,
Honest Abe Log Homes wants to inform and inspire anyone who's looking to build log and timber frame home. That's why events and activities are planned throughout the year to give wood home enthusiasts the chance to learn more about products, plans and procedures as well as visit a variety of types of wood homes.
On a few occasions throughout the year Honest Abe hosts Log Raising and Manufacturing Tours at its National Headquarters in Moss, Tenn., during which time members of the company build a small structure, showing and describing the process of building an Honest Abe home.
Held on selected Saturdays between February and October, each free event begins at 9 a.m. and includes light morning refreshments and a free lunch. Required registration is available online at Log Raising Events or by calling 800 2313695.
July is National Log Cabin Month, and Honest Abe Log Home's Direct Sales Centers in Tennessee and its Independent Dealerships across the country celebrate with special events.
Check the events page on our website and follow Honest Abe on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter to get updates about home tours, open houses, construction site visits, log raisings, home shows and more.
We'll be sure to keep you informed about opportunities to indulge your passion for log and timber design and construction with my periodic emails. Contact us if you have any questions.
Independent dealership of Honest Abe products.
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Honest Abe Log Homes 9995 Clay County Highway Moss, Tennessee 38575 United States (800) 2313695 Claudia Johnson
Floor Plans & Designs 1 message Josh Beasley
Dear Claudia,
We are thrilled to share with you some of the most beautiful floor plans for log homes and timber frame homes that started as the dream home floor plans of Honest Abe customers.
Click here for the plans.
We have to admit, our design team here at Honest Abe Log Homes is pretty proud of them That is not bragging though, because we didn't make them great. Instead, our customers did.
They represent a lifetime of passion, and many years of planning for some. They may not be the perfect fit for you, but that's just fine because they were made just exactly how someone else wanted them.
Now, they are shared with you for inspiration and to give you confidence that you, also, can make a dream home a forever home. If any of these homes appeal to you, or you want to discuss creating your own custom house plans, give us a call and let's get started.
Independent dealership of Honest Abe products.
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Honest Abe Log Homes 9995 Clay County Highway Moss, Tennessee 38575 United States (800) 2313695 Claudia Johnson
Getting closer to building your home... 1 message Josh Beasley
Dear Claudia,
Can you believe it has been more than a year since we started sharing resources with you?
We don't want to fill up your inbox with emails you are not interested in, but if you've enjoyed the past year and are ready for more, then we have it.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed by selecting one of the boxes below:
1. Please continue to email me every couple of weeks with log and timber resources...
Keep it Coming!
2. I would rather only receive newsletters and event notifications going forward...
Newsletters & Events Only
3. I'm no longer interested in a home from Honest Abe, I would like to Opt-Out.
Opt-Out of These Emails If you're considering opting out, please know there's no hard feelings. We really do not want to be a nuisance. If you choose nothing, then we'll just stay the course and be on the lookout for something soon!
Independent dealership of Honest Abe products.
PS. Since it has been awhile since you first requested information some things may have changed. We can provide you the best resources when we have your updated information. You can up date your info here.
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Honest Abe Log Homes 9995 Clay County Highway Moss, Tennessee 38575 United States (800) 2313695