Eastern White Pine is the typical log used by Honest Abe Log Homes. It’s purchased in the Eastern and Southeastern regions of the U.S. Western Red Cedar is also available. Other structural materials are milled from Douglas Fir, or Spruce. (Engleman Spruce and Lodgepole Pine are used in our 10" Round Swedish Cope System).

Yes. All of the timbers are carefully and methodically kiln dried because "dry" logs provide a more stable, tighter package than "green" logs. The kiln drying also minimizes shrinkage and settling that occurs in the timbers over time, while also destroying insects and their larvae. (The 10" logs are cut from standing dead timbers).

We have a list of several builders that specialize in log homes. Honest Abe offers a one day construction seminar that customers and builders can attend. The process of building our kit is not complicated and is usually no problem for builders in the home construction industry. We also provide an easy to follow construction manual with every set of plans.

No. After drying, our logs are planed and cut to exact lengths and specifications using state of the art technology. This creates a perfect fit for your windows, doors, and corner notches.

We offer the Genesis (6"x12"), the Original Chinked (6"x10"), the Milled-D (8"x8" and 6"x8"), the Interlocking Round (8"x8"), the 10" Round, the Sportsman Cabin (4"x6"), and the Timber Frame (8"x8"). Please look at the profile page of our web site.

The best place to start is with your home town banker, just like any home construction loan. We also have the names of several finance companies that specialize in the log home industry. They can offer the construction loan and the permanent financing of your home.

No. There are many companies willing to place insurance on log homes. Simply searching your yellow pages will help you find one. Most log homes are built in rural areas, so some companies may have restrictions about the fire protection class in which you are building. Check with your local insurance agent.

Yes. Most of the homes are customized to the customers specifications. The catalog is a good place to get ideas, but if you don’t find a plan that fits your exact needs, you can make design changes. The design department and engineers at Honest Abe will draw the blue prints for your home and the logs will be cut to your specs. (Sportsman Series cannot be modified).