Energy figures calculated in 1998 @ approx $1.00 per gallon

Today, fuel costs are 3-4 times that in 1998. Our homes Energy consumption is approx 1/4 of conventional 2x6 construction.

How much do these homes cost?
Our computerized pricing automatically breaks down shell costs.
The Frame Kit and Stressed Skin Panel Material, Erecting the Frame and Panel Installation

Pricing is based on each individual frame component, as well as board feet of material.
Panels are based on the sq. ft. of panels required, walls, roof and dormer & valley parts.

Erecting the Frame and Panel Installation figures will provide estimates for you to gauge pricing that you obtain from your local carpenter. It will also show you how much you can save by assembling the shell yourself.

Usually, the total cost to build one of our homes (including average well, septic and site work - excluding land, garages, and builders fee) runs from $75 - $105 (psf). Costs vary depending upon the homes design, site conditions and your choice of roofing, siding, windows, kitchens, baths, etc.

What kind of wood do you use?
Our choice of wood is Eastern White Pine, we use only the "heartwood" the best part of the log. Pine is extremely stable and versatile. It shrinks less than any other domestic wood; in fact, radial shrinkage is two and half time less than white oak! It's reasonably abundant, making it cost effective, and pine can be stained a variety of colors to enhance your decor. A natural pine frame will darken over time to a light reddish brown hue, while painting or staining in the future is always an option. We apply a clear penetrating sealer and no other maintenance is required.

Are they difficult to finish?
A great amount of effort has gone into finding simple, quality, low cost ways to complete our homes. Standard tradesmen such as carpenters, plumbers and electricians are all that's required for finishing. Any differences from what they are used to, are minor. Out of the ordinary  features, like downsized heating systems can be used. (in most cases with heat supplied to the first floor only).

Are high R-Values important?
Yes, but equally important is air infiltration for comfort and energy efficiency... The tight construction created using stresskins, makes our homes much more efficient than standard 2x6 construction, with virtually no drafts or cold spots.

In 2x6 construction, air moves through the walls, contributing to high fluctuations in temperature. During the winter months condensation can occur inside the wall cavities, lowering fiberglass insulation R-Values as much as 35% and eventually causing rot and mold growth. Air gaps, framing studs and the nature of fiberglass insulation may average out to approx. R-12 vs. the R-25 value of the stresskin panels we utilize.
                     
Is mechanical ventilation necessary?
All homes should have some form of ventilation system. We make available an inexpensive continuous fresh air ventilation system. This simple system exhausts indoor air pollutants and moisture while bringing in fresh outside air. It works to minimize the growth of bacteria, viruses, fungi and lessens the chance of respiratory infection, allergic Rhinitis and asthma.
All in all, it's nice to know that your home is always filled with fresh air!

Are your homes built above average?
Yes, there really is no comparison to other forms of construction, Timber frames utilizing stressed skin panels are a superior way to build.

All of our homes are structurally engineered  using the same engineering principles as skyscrapers. Weight loads are transferred from the frame directly to the foundation at each post location. The walls don't carry any of the buildings weight, consequently, there is no wall movement due to weight loads or moisture, virtually eliminating any settling problems.

Does the foundation have to be specially built?
No! Other than the length and width may differ to accommodate our timber frame dimensions, they are the same as in conventional contruction. The first deck is built the same as well.

Do you supply roofing, siding, interior partitions etc?
To eliminate double handling and storage problems, it makes more sense to purchase these items through your local supplier as you need them. 

How else do you differ?
Structural Panels are used on exterior walls. Having OSB directly behind the drywall makes it convenient for attaching things like pictures, cabinets and shelving. Exterior walls can be drywalled or boards applied. With our system, the wall covering is easily slipped  behind the posts & beams, eliminating the need for taping the edges. Sheetrock can be applied either vertically or horizontally for just one seam to tape! And by the way, if drywall is preferred between rafters, it will be installed on the panels - basically priming and painting is all that’s left to do!

We use rafters for our roof system where most other companies use perlins. Generally
they can't be spaced symmetrically, so they look unbalanced. Rafters also make the roof
panel installation much easier.

Another area we differ is the wiring system. Most, if not all other companies provide
wire chases in the panels. This can be a problem if the installers aren’t paying attention.
In our homes, a wire chase is provided around the perimeter of each floor. Wiring is as easy,
if not easier than conventional construction. Simply screw on the baseboard trim and you’ll
have future access to your wiring.