The Strongwood Difference - Strongwood Europe

The Strongwood Difference

	STRONGWOOD	Others
Do I have the choice of log package options?	YES	Varies - many manufacturers have limited choices.
How many log styles do you offer?	Over 70	Varies widely
Does Strongwood offer log railings, log stairs, and hardwood flooring for log homes?	YES	Some manufacturers do. However most do not.
Strongwood homes are energy efficient?	YES - You might expect to save 15%-20% in energy costs	None are more energy efficient than the Strongwood full log.
How much do log homes cost?	Our experience is that totally complete turnkey Strongwood homes in the U.S. average between $120 and $160 per square foot	Varies. Some low grade materials may cost less. Handcrafted logs may range from $200 to $400 per square foot.
Is only Eastern White Pine used for structural logs?	YES - Plus we offer Western Red Cedar and Douglas Fir options	No - Varies. Some use lesser quality pine or dead standing logs.
Can I use any cabinets or fixtures for my log home?	YES - We don't restrict you to low quality finishing options	No - Some manufactures require you to source components from them
Are all logs kiln dried?	YES - Absolutely Our logs are dried to 15-19% or lower: an exacting process that takes 28-34 days. No company in North America has a more precise drying process to assure quality.	No - while some mfg. say they kiln dry, it's best to ask questions. Some only dry enough to mill the outside of the log. Ask them if they have to account for settling or shrinkage.
Is the Strongwood log building system really the best?	YES - We want to prove it to you. We use screws, not spikes; and a 4-way seals Every package includes full blueprints & construction manual.	Varies - We feel that there are other very well engineered log systems on the market. However, even some of the largest companies have some poor systems. It's difficult to tell the difference sometimes.
Is onsite log package building assistance included automatically?	YES with every package worldwide	No
Is a construction manual included with every log package?	YES	No - varies
Can I get a ballpark price on floor plans with no cost and no obligation?	YES	No - varies
Are in-house design services available?	YES - Our own design department will turn your ideas plans into a blueprint.	Varies
Can I do some of the work myself?	YES Check out our Owner-Builder & Builder-Partner programs	Yes
Can I build a Strongwood home even if I do not want to do any of the work myself?	YES We have building options that include log stacking and project management anyplace in the United States. We will also assist you in locating a competent local general contractor to assure you of a quality job.	No - varies
Is the manufacturer or dealer an experienced contractor?	YES - All our authorized Strongwood dealers are qualified builders. Our headquarters staff are licensed general contractors.	No - varies widely
Can Strongwood provide a commercial log building?	YES	Yes - varies
Is a life-time warranty offered?	YES	No - varies
Can I purchase my log home from Strongwood or a Strongwood dealer & build anyplace?	YES We offer worldwide building options	Varies
Does the manufacturer belong to the Log Homes Council?	YES We are 1 of 60 current members out of 500 manufacturers who subscribe to the rigorous requirements that assure you of a quality home.	Only 10% of the U.S. log home manufacturers qualify for membership