What kind of floor plan can we choose?

This is one of Grand Arbor’s strongest attributes. With the available lengths, size and log joinery methods that we use with our Swedish cope logs, we have the ability to build most any floor plan you bring to us.

Can we submit a floor plan we already have?

Yes. We can give you a very close estimation off of computer print-outs, hand-drawn sketches and magazine tear-outs. We can also work with blueprints you may already own.

What species of tree do you build with?

Most homes we build are constructed with Norway (Red Pine), for several reasons. Red Pine tends to grow straighter and taller with less knots throughout the majority of the trunk. This makes them prime candidates for milled log construction. We also can accommodate those with a preference for Northern White Cedar, dead standing Lodge Pole Pine from Montana and Western Red Cedar. Other species may be available if needed.

What kind of maintenance can we expect with our new log home?

If due diligence is taken during the design and construction phases of your new home, on average, you can anticipate re-coating every 6 to 7 years with a high-quality exterior stain. Factors such as weather and sun exposure can lengthen or shorten time between needed maintenance.

Can I be my own general contractor?

Yes – Grand Arbor offers log packages for just such a purpose. Many people decide to manage the construction of their own homes. Grand Arbor's involvement in your project can be as much or as little as you desire.

How is the electrical wiring run?

During construction, the logs are pre-drilled to hide wiring inside of the log walls.

Where do the log packages come from?

Each and every log is cut and milled right here in the Minnesota North Country. Every one of our log home packages is manufactured just outside of Bagley, MN. Because we strive for higher quality, our mill has been custom-built to our company standards to enable us to produce a product we can be proud of. Producing logs with tight tolerances ensures exacting fit and functionality.

What kind of settling and shrinkage is associated with a Grand Arbor log home?

With a Grand Arbor Log Homes package, log movement has been minimized in every aspect available. First, we reduce the logs' moisture content to 20% or lower – its EMC. Equilibrium moisture content means the median moisture content that the log will see during its lifetime as a part of your home. A log's EMC can fluctuate between as little as 7% to as much as 26% depending on location, seasons, climate changes and heat sources. This practice of reducing the moisture content before construction minimizes movement commonly associated with some log homes.