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Frequently Asked Qestions (FAQ)
Construction, Maintenance, and Performance
1. Do I need to repaint the wood every year?
No. A good stain or UV protection lasts 5 to 7 years, depending on sun exposure. Round log homes do not require annual repainting, but we recommend a yearly visual inspection to identify any more exposed areas. It’s also advised to wash the home annually with soap, just as you would a conventional house.
2. Is additional insulation required?
No. Solid round logs provide natural thermal mass insulation. Combined with proper roof and window insulation, our constructions fully meet Quebec Building Code requirements for four-season residences.
3. What is the R-value of a round log structure?
Our buildings achieve an average overall R-value of approximately 24.5.

For reference, eastern white pine has an average R-value of 1.1 to 1.76 per inch. A 12-inch wall alone therefore offers R-13 to R-21 in thermal resistance.

It’s important to note that overall energy performance goes beyond just the R-value: airtightness, window quality, the wood’s thermal inertia, and reduced thermal bridging all contribute significantly to the efficiency of a round log home.
4. What wood species do you use?
We primarily use eastern white pine, prized for its stability, durability, and natural aesthetics. This local species offers an excellent balance of thermal performance, strength, and machining quality.

Eastern white pine has a beautiful, uniform pale color that enhances the warm, authentic character of round log construction. It’s ideal for high-end, long-lasting buildings in terms of both strength and appearance.

Other wood species are available upon request only.
5. Is it more expensive to heat than a conventional home?
No. With 12- to 14-inch walls, good roofing, and high-performance windows, energy consumption is comparable to that of a conventional home.

That said, the wood’s thermal mass acts as a natural regulator: it retains heat in winter and keeps things cool in summer. As a result, your heating and cooling needs may even be lower.
Aging and Wood Stability
6. Do I need to redo the trim after a few years?
Normally, no. Round logs settle slightly in the first few years, but if trims and finishes are designed as we plan—with adjustable systems (sliding tracks, movement gaps)—they won’t need replacement.
7. How much settling occurs?
In eastern white pine, settling typically ranges from 0.5% to 2% of wall height, depending on initial moisture content and log diameter. At Prestige Bois Rond, since our beams are cut from the heart of the tree, settling is minimized—maximum 1/8 inch per log. Our logs are also air-dried naturally for at least one year to limit this behavior.

For example, a 3-meter (9 ft) high home may settle 2 to 5 cm (1 to 2 inches) over time. Settling can be managed by:
  • Using a post-and-beam structure, which limits most shrinkage,
  • Or, in some Scandinavian-style designs, adding adjustable posts to compensate for settling.
8. Where does the wood come from?
We source from local Quebec forests whenever possible. Regional sourcing ensures quality control, traceability, and a reduced carbon footprint.
9. Can I assemble the kit myself?
Yes. Self-construction is an option. We provide detailed plans, numbered pieces, and a technical guide. However, you’ll need lifting equipment and good organization.
10. What equipment is needed to assemble a kit?
Assembling a round log home typically requires (but is not limited to):
  • A telehandler, loader, or small mobile crane to handle heavy logs or wall panels,
  • Scaffolding, drills, straps, laser levels,
  • And appropriate safety gear.
For smaller models, assembly can be done with simpler means, such as a backhoe.
Delivery and Transportation
11. Do you deliver to my region?
Yes. We deliver throughout Eastern Canada. Shipping costs vary based on distance and site accessibility (road, forest trail, ferry). Site access must be assessed to determine available space for trucks. Each project may require different truck sizes and loading configurations.
12. Does the wood crack?
Yes, that’s normal. Surface checks appear as the wood dries. They do not affect structural integrity and are part of the natural character of wood.
13. Do cracks compromise the structure’s stability?
No. Cracks are anticipated and accounted for. Stability comes from mechanical interlocking (notches, dowels, compression springs).
14. What ensures airtightness between logs?
Airtightness is achieved through a combined system:
  • Plastic tongue-and-groove profile,
  • Compressive gasket with insulation (foam, felt, or natural fiber),
  • Tension screws with springs to maintain constant pressure,
  • And perimeter caulking applied throughout.
15. Is your wood dry?
Yes. Logs are naturally air-dried outdoors for over 12 months, reducing moisture to about 15–20%. This minimizes settling and stabilizes the structure.
Manufacturing and Installation
16. Are your walls prefabricated?
Yes. Prestige Bois Rond is the only manufacturer of prefabricated and pre-machined round log homes. Pieces are processed and test-assembled in the factory for superior precision.
17. Do you install your kits?
No. Two main options:
  • Self-construction: You assemble it yourself.
  • Assisted installation: Your chosen contractor erects the main structure, and you complete the rest alone or with trusted subcontractors.
18. Do you offer turnkey service?
No. However, we can provide site supervision for compliance purposes, limited to elements supplied by our company.
19. Is a round log home more expensive than a conventional one?
On average, 5 to 15% more, depending on finishes and location. However, the durability, aesthetic value, and resale potential more than offset the difference.
Timelines and Planning
20. How long until my home is livable?
Allow:
  • Kit only: 1 to 3 months for assembly.
  • Fully finished: 6 to 12 months, depending on complexity and season.
Add 2 to 4 months for design and factory fabrication.
21. Is it only for cottages?
No. Round logs are suitable for permanent residences, inns, community pavilions, and more. Our construction method—different from competitors—allows for much larger four-season habitable spaces.
22. Do I need to provide my own plans?
No. You can start from an existing model, but we also create fully custom plans tailored to your needs.
23. Do you have multiple models?
Yes. Over 50 models and more than 100 past projects, ranging from small 600 sq ft cottages to family homes of 1,500–2,500 sq ft, and high-end custom projects over 2,500 sq ft.
Customization and Support
24. Can I customize my home?
Yes. Dimensions, interior layout, roof style, window types, interior and exterior finishes…
25. Do you offer project management?
No. However, we can provide site supervision for compliance, limited to elements supplied by our company.
26. Do you know contractors in my region?
Yes. We have a network of reliable partners across Eastern Canada.
27. Do I need to own land first?
No. We can help you find suitable land. The home must be adapted to sun orientation, slope, and municipal zoning rules.
28. Quelles sont les étapes pour obtenir un permis de construction?
We guide you through the process:
  1. Land acquisition
  2. Model selection or custom design
  3. Technical plans
  4. Submission to the municipality with required forms
  5. Review and approval (2 to 6 weeks, depending on the region)
Regulations and Comparisons
29. Are round log homes allowed in rural areas?
It varies greatly. Some municipalities accept them as long as Building Code requirements are met.

However, many rural zones or villages impose specific architectural standards (style, materials, colors). In those cases, round logs may be restricted or denied, which could delay or prevent your project.
30. Do you have model homes in my region?
No. We showcase a portfolio of completed projects with client testimonials, and our office is in a demonstrator model. Serious clients may have the opportunity to visit select realizations with us.
31. What sets you apart from other manufacturers?
What differentiates us:
  • Naturally air-dried, hand-selected, high-quality wood
  • Precision machining
  • Fully custom designs
  • Proven airtightness systems
  • Comprehensive management options
  • Additional related services—ask us!
  • Prefabricated and pre-machined construction
  • Excellent customer service
  • After-sales support and self-builder assistance
Technical Details
32. How long until I receive my kit?
Timelines vary by season and production queue. Factory fabrication is quick, but we have a waitlist and blocked calendar dates.

Generally, expect 4 weeks to 6 months to receive your kit, depending on current order volume.
33. What type of windows do you recommend?
Energy-efficient double or triple-glazed windows, just like in a conventional home.
34. What are the log diameters?
  • Standard series: 12"
  • On request: 8", 10", 14" (larger diameters possible)
Reminder: The Quebec Building Code requires 12"+ for four-season compliance. Below 12", we’re talking three-season camps or cottages.

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