Exceptions to the Rule in Modern Wooden Construction

Building a wooden house is a dream for many investors who value closeness to nature, a unique microclimate, and timeless aesthetics. However, almost every person considering such an investment encounters the same question: do log homes settle? This is one of the most common and crucial issues, which over the years has been surrounded by many myths. It's time to address them.

Settling – A Natural Process, But Not a Necessary Flaw

Let's be clear: yes, traditionally built log homes do settle. This is a natural process resulting from the specific characteristics of the material. Wood, as a hygroscopic material, reacts to changes in humidity – it shrinks and expands. In a newly erected building made from "green" or insufficiently dried logs, the process of drying and the adjustment of individual elements under their own weight can last for several years. During this time, the structure can lower by a few, and in extreme cases, even several centimeters.

This phenomenon, though natural, requires immense knowledge and the application of special techniques from the builder, such as leaving expansion gaps above windows and doors or using adjustment screws. Unfortunately, on the construction market, one can find many offers where this key aspect is neglected, leading to future problems with airtightness, cracking partition walls, or issues with window and door frames.

Exceptions to the Rule – When Does a Wooden House Not Settle?

Fortunately, the answer to the question of settling is not unequivocal. Technological advancements have meant that this problem has been largely eliminated by leading manufacturers of wooden houses. The key to success is the proper preparation of the material and precision in execution, with Scandinavian technologies, including the distinguished Finnish technology, leading the way.

Companies like Logment, which use Finnish know-how, approach the problem in a completely different way. Instead of fighting the effects of settling on the construction site, they prevent it at the production stage. What does this revolution consist of?

Selected and Kiln-Dried Wood: The foundation is the use of wood with a strictly controlled, optimal moisture content (usually around 15-20%). Thanks to this, the logs do not shrink after being integrated into the structure.

Glued Laminated Timber (Glulam/LGL): This is the most advanced solution. The logs are created by gluing several lamellas (thinner boards) together under high pressure. Such material is not only extremely durable but, above all, dimensionally stable. It does not twist, crack, and most importantly, it does not settle.

Prefabrication and Precision: Homes built with Finnish technology are largely created in a factory. Precisely cut elements are prepared by machines with millimeter accuracy. A complete kit is delivered to the construction site and assembled in just a few days. This eliminates human error and guarantees a perfect fit for all components.

A Wide Range of Offers – What to Choose?

Today's market for wooden houses is extremely diverse. You can find offers from companies building with traditional methods using "green" logs, as well as technologically advanced proposals from specialized manufacturers. Although the latter may seem more expensive at first glance, they are in fact an investment that saves time, stress, and money in the long run.

By choosing a technology that eliminates the problem of settling, you gain:

Safety and structural stability from day one.

The ability to immediately proceed with finishing works without having to wait for the building to "stabilize."

A guarantee of airtightness and energy efficiency for decades.

Peace of mind and the certainty that you will avoid costly repairs in the future.

In summary, although settling is inherent to the nature of wood, it does not have to be a problem for your dream home. By making a conscious choice and opting for modern, proven technologies, such as those offered by companies based on Finnish standards, you are investing in quality, durability, and comfort for a lifetime. This is proof that in modern wooden construction, there are commendable exceptions to the old rules.

08 February 2025

Do Log Homes Settle?