The Classic Hewn-Log House: A Step-by-Step Guide to Building and Restoring

by Charles McRaven

Overview

A classic of early American architecture, the hewn-log house has a unique rustic charm and character. In this engaging and informative guide, Charles McRaven provides illustrated step-by-step instructions that cover every aspect of building your own log house, from selecting the site and hewing the first log to laying the final chimney stone. Whether you’re building a new house or restoring an old one, McRaven offers proven techniques and time-tested advice that will help you successfully create a warm and inviting hewn-log home.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781580175906
Publisher:	Storey Publishing, LLC
Publication date:	03/29/2005
Pages:	208
Product dimensions:	9.15(w) x 11.45(h) x 0.65(d)

About the Author

Charles McRaven is a stonemason and blacksmith, nationally known for building and repairing dozens of stone structures and log homes. He has written extensively on stone, including the books Building with Stone and Stonework, and articles for Country Journal, Fine Homebuilding, and many regional magazines. He lectures and conducts workshops and private courses in stone construction. Charles lives in Virginia.

Table of Contents

Foreword

Introduction: Hewn Logs and Houses

1 The American House

2 Pioneer Building

3 Restoration

4 Land and Site

5 Design

6 Acquiring Materials

7 Foundations and Basements

8 Hewing, Notching, Log Raising

9 Roofing

A Gallery of Hewn-Log Houses

10 Windows and Doors

11 Chinking

12 Floors and Stairs

13 Stone Fireplaces

14 Porches and Additions

15 Lofts, Utilities, Finishing Interiors

Epilogue

Bibliography

Additional Reading

Glossary

Index

Editorial Reviews

…this book is the perfect companion for an architect, historian or novice.” –At Home Arkansas

“…a comprehensive look at the process of building and restoring with this staple of early American architecture…” – Kitchen Bath Design News

From the Publisher

Hewn-log houses are tied to America's pioneer heritage. In this third edition of McRaven's book on the subject-the first was titled Building the Hewn-Log House (1978) and the second Building and Restoring the Hewn-Log House (1994)-he shares a wealth of techniques and advice on construction. His writing is dense and detailed, which makes the book an authoritative treatise on this specialized topic. Readers will find material and construction checklists and a pretty color insert ("gallery") of sample homes illustrating all the possibilities in detail. Robert W. Chambers's Log Construction Manual and B. Allan MacKie's The Owner-Built Log House offer similar coverage. This comprehensive book is recommended for larger collections or where there is demand. Copyright 2005 Reed Business Information.

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