Great Lakes Log Crafters Association Meeting in Land O’ Lakes, WI

April 25-26, 2025 members of Great Lakes Log Crafters Association met in Land O’ Lakes, Wisconsin. GLLCA members Dan and Mary Wait of Frontier Builders, Inc, assembled a great list of speakers speakers talking about Epitome Composite Foundations, Wood treating with Booge, H Windows, Building Codes, and insurance issues impacting construction/manufacturing sectors.

The most interesting topic, was Robotic Solutions, Inc. providing software for log and timber manufacturing industry and ABB Robot Demonstration: Design to Log Panels. Of course a group of handcrafted log professionals were certain to have varying opinions on using robotics in handcrafted log building, but the presentations were informative and interesting for all.

While the robotic portion of the conference was in Frontier Builders, Inc., yard, most of the speakers and conference events were held at the historic Gateway Lodge in a nostalgic timber structure that dates to the 1930’s. The annual conference typically rotates between locations in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan every year, but at the annual meeting the consensus was to return again to the Gateway Lodge for the 2026 conference. An educational fundraising build to jointly use robotics and handcrafted techniques is being discussed to explore how old and new technologies can be used together in the name of crafting logs. Find more information at www.gllca.org

Questions on maintaining the legacy of your wood structure? Give us a call- 1-800-359-6614

Pickup in store - or ship to your door -in whichever woods your cabin dwells.

 Schroeder Log Home Supply, Inc. 

1101 SE 7th Avenue

Grand Rapids MN 55744

1-800-359-6614

The Great Lakes Jack

We are excited to introduce the Great Lakes Jack.The Great Lakes Jack was jointly designed by members of the Great Lakes Log Crafters Association, along with Aeshe Engineering. The Great Lakes Jack has a 1” threaded rod mounted to a 3/8” steel plate with a nut acting as the height adjuster, and another 3/8” steel plate welded on top of the nut. The bottom plate of the screw jack is anchored to the foundation through two 1/2" holes. The top plate is anchored to the bottom of the vertical log post with four 3/8" structural screws. The threaded rod passes through a hole in the center of the top plate as shown and into a pre-drilled recess in the log. Unlike other settling jack designs, the nut is welded to the top plate of the Great Lakes Jack. This aids in resisting uplift, but as such it's necessary to remove the anchor screws from the upper plate while vertical adjustments are made. Corrosion resistant coating should be applied before installation. Allowable net uplift is 900LBS, and Vertical downward force is tested to 20,000LBS.

A portion of proceeds from this jack go to the Great Lakes Log Crafters Association and help to fund their education and promotion of excellence in handcrafted log building. The Great Lakes Log Crafters Association meets annually for education, demonstration, and camaraderie of all things related to log craft. In 2025, the conference will be meeting April 25-26 at Gateway Lodge in Land O’ Lakes Wisconsin. Some of the many topics presented will be Net Zero Log Home: Purdue University Ross Reserve; Stihl Chainsaw and Milwaukee Tool Demonstrations; Wood Treating With Lake Country Log and Cedar; Wisconsin Building Codes; and Robotic Solutions, Inc- Software for log and timber manufacturing demonstration. Registration is open to all members and non-members who are interested in learning more about all aspects in the craft of log construction.

 

Questions on maintaining the legacy of your wood structure? Give us a call- 1-800-359-6614

Pickup in store - or ship to your door -in whichever woods your cabin dwells.

 Schroeder Log Home Supply, Inc. 

1101 SE 7th Avenue

Grand Rapids MN 55744

1-800-359-6614

 

What is the R-Value of a Log Wall?

1. Wood has a thermal transmission factor, called k. It is used in calculations to generate the R-value of an assembly, but only certified insulation products have specific R-values. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) rates an Eastern White Pine log at R-1.42 per inch which might mean an 8” log would be R-11.4, but that’s not the whole story.

2. Home Energy Raters do not take into account the thermal mass value of a solid wood assembly.

3. The DOE has issued a grant to Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and the International Mass Timber Alliance (IMTA) to research the energy conserving properties of mass timber. Mass timber can be solid wood like logs and timbers, or laminated wood like glue-lam beams and cross-laminated timber panels.

4. Work done at the ORNL in Tennessee has proven the following:

1. A 7- inch thick mass timber wall is 22% more efficient than a stick built structure with R-19 insulation.

2. Improved thermal comfort with thermal mass (up to 46% fewer uncomfortable hours due to convective air flow). Thermal comfort is the condition of mind that expresses subjective satisfaction with the thermal environment.

• Lightweight assemblies (stick built structures) respond over a short time to temperature changes both inside and outside.

• Mass assemblies (Log, concrete, brick) respond slowly to changes not only in temperature, but relative humidity. Since mass absorbs and radiates heat and humidity, it tempers the indoor environment.

3. Peak demand was up to 50% lower with mass wood depending on the month and location.

An example of peak demand is everyone coming home from work at the same time and turning the air conditioning on.

5. IMTA efforts are continuing as they are building three pairs of 3-meter cubes, one stick built and one of mass timber.

A pair of cubes are set up in Tennessee with more in Texas, and Colorado to replicate a more operational environment.

Over a 2- year period, constant temperature monitoring will take place. The data from these cubes will be used to prove the computer simulations used to design the cubes. The simulations will then be used to generate new thermal codes for mass timber walls.

 

The IMTA is a not-for-profit, charitable organization that promotes Mass Wood Construction and sustainability, energy efficiency, low embodied energy, and carbon sequestration, by the following engagements.

• Identifying barriers which challenge the use of mass wood construction in residential and commercial applications.
• Pursuing scientific research and testing in collaboration with post secondary institutions, government, and non-governmental organizations.
• Disseminating data pertinent to the development of building codes and energy standards that reflect wood’s value proposition.

 

Cobra Rods

Cobra Rods are a safe, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) approved wood decay protection and prevention system for log homes. Cobra Rods are a wood preservative, fungicide, and insecticide that's safe to handle and made entirely of a unique Boron and Copper Hydroxide complex. Cobra Rods include the addition of Copper Hydroxide which provides extended protection from fungus species not affected by borates, effectively providing more protection then Impel Rods. Photo shows Cobra Rods and Cobra Rod Plugs. 

Cobra Rods take the form of a solid cylindrical rod that is approximately 7/16" in diameter (use a 1/2" drill bit for installation) and comes in 2" and 4" lengths. Cobra Rods are a deep green color and has a glass-like look and feel. When used for logs, the Cobra Rods can be "plugged" with caulking or chinking to aesthetically hide them. CobraRod Plugs are also available (included with the 2" 10 pack and 3" 12 pack of Cobra Rods). Cobra Rods can be used in logs, landscape timbers, deck joists, posts, and other places where moisture is present. The treatment cycle is 8 to 10 years if wood moisture is 20% or higher. Cobra Rods are placed into holes drilled in wood at specific high risk locations (such as at the groundline or near joints and exposed endgrain) and are dependent upon moisture in the wood to work.

Cobra Rod Installation 

The highest incidence of wood rot and decay happens at the ground line. The CobraRod targets this area and prevents fungal decay, termites, carpenter ants, various beetles and other wood-boring insects.
This revolutionary combination of copper and boron is proven effective, safe and easy to use. North American utilities have trusted the CobraRod to extend the life of their wood poles. Now you too can benefit form this simple solution.

Installation details can be found here: https://www.loghelp.com/images/CobraRod_install.pdf

Questions on maintaining the legacy of your wood structure? Give us a call- 1-800-359-6614

Pickup in store - or ship to your door -in whichever woods your cabin dwells.

 Schroeder Log Home Supply, Inc. 

1101 SE 7th Avenue

Grand Rapids MN 55744

1-800-359-6614

Sashco Log Builder Caulking

 Log Builder Caulking by Sashco is a log home caulking sealant with a limited lifetime warranty. Sashco Log Builder Caulking is designed to meet the demanding sealant needs log homes and is compatible with most construction materials. Sashco Log Builder Caulking is water resistant in 1-4 hours. Sashco Log Builder caulking has superior water resistance. Plus excellent resistance to UV rays. Sashco Log Builder Caulking develops powerful adhesion, remains a rubbery sealant for many years. Not only does Log Builder caulking have powerful adhesion to sound wood - it sticks to a lot more. Granted, you want your sealant to have superior adhesion to all species of wood, but Sashco Log Builder caulking adheres to a variety of surfaces. After all, your log home doesn't just consist of wood. What about windows, doors, and baseboards made of a different material? Sashco Log Builder caulking sticks to most building materials including glass, plastics, and metals. So you can seal around those windows, doors and baseboards effectively. And you can fill checks and cracks since Log Builder caulking adheres to most log home stains and finishes too. Sashco Log Builder caulking has water-based chemistry that is environmentally friendly. All Sashco caulking including Log Builder Caulking is recommended for use with Backer Rod when used with logs. Made in the USA. 

 

Fundamental Caulking Application Guidelines

• Proper substrate preparation and application are imperative for product longevity. Read this entire info sheet (LBR 002) before applying any product. 

• Make certain there is compatibility between your stain and Log Builder. We recommend Sashco’s Capture®/Cascade® or Transformation Stains® for exterior applications and Symphony® interior clear coat for beautiful long-term protection. Best results are obtained when Log Builder is applied to clean, stained wood. Call Sashco at 800-767-5656 for guidance if in doubt. 

• Check the weather forecast. Finishing products are best-applied in moderate weather conditions, i.e., out of direct sunlight, and in dry, warm conditions.. 

• Check the log surface temperature. The surface temperature should be between 40˚F (4˚C) – 90˚F (32˚C). 

• It is always best to use a bond breaker (usually backer rod) before caulking. Sashco strongly recommends the use of backer rod, especially if the home is new and/or the logs are subject to significant movement. If a bond breaker is not used, expect more caulking repairs. 

• Tool Log Builder to help ensure good contact with the log surfaces, especially to the upper log; this will greatly aid adhesion. 

• Ideal sealant depth is 1/2 of the joint width, but no less than 1/4” and no more than 1/2”.

• Assemble tools and equipment: - Backer rod - Caulking guns - Trowels, spatulas, or foam brushes for tooling - Clean water and rags - Plastic sheets to cover the caulking if wet weather moves in - Staple gun & staples

Surface Preparation

Best results are obtained when Log Builder is applied to wood that has been previously coated with a compatible and thoroughly cured stain. In fact, Log Builder has a Limited Lifetime Warranty when applied over any of Sashco’s stains: Capture Log Stain or Transformation Stain. 

If not using a Sashco stain, be sure to confirm its compatibility with Log Builder. If the stain is older but still intact, clean the log surfaces thoroughly to remove dirt, pollen, bird droppings, and other surface contaminants.

The USDA Forest Products Laboratory and other researchers around the world have recently reported that surface wood exposed to sunlight for as little as 1-2 weeks can become significantly damaged and unsound which may lead to premature adhesive failure of coatings. Such surface wood damage has the potential to also hurt Log Builder’s (or any caulk’s) adhesion. Once bare wood has been properly cleaned and prepped to remove unsound wood, stain should be applied as soon as possible. Follow with Log Building caulking.

A few sealers, especially those high in wax content or non-drying oils, may interfere with adhesion. Some of these coatings can hurt any caulk’s adhesion—whether applied before or after the caulk—so we advise against their use. Check with Sashco if you have questions about your particular product.

 

Questions on maintaining the legacy of your wood structure? Give us a call- 1-800-359-6614

Pickup in store - or ship to your door -in whichever woods your cabin dwells.

 Schroeder Log Home Supply, Inc. 

1101 SE 7th Avenue

Grand Rapids MN 55744

1-800-359-6614

Log Gap Cap Installation

The Log Gap Cap™ reduces air infiltration where round logs meet window and door trim. The small are designed to work with 6" to 8" diameter logs, the large fits 9" to 11" logs. The Log Gap Cap's uniform shape fits most log profiles. With an easy scissor cut along the flat side, they work in log siding applications. Engineered from 3/4" closed cell flexible foam, it compresses and remains in place with little or no caulking required. Its smooth surface on one side allows easy caulking if desired. The material is resistant to mold, rot, bacteria, and will not absorb moisture. Made in the USA. Available in 10 packs and 50 count boxes.

 

Questions on maintaining the legacy of your wood structure? Give us a call- 1-800-359-6614

Pickup in store - or ship to your door -in whichever woods your cabin dwells.

 Schroeder Log Home Supply, Inc. 

1101 SE 7th Avenue

Grand Rapids MN 55744

1-800-359-6614

Sansin Timber-Tec Chinking

 Sansin Timber-Tec Chinking - A revolution in chinking technology. Log homes move and settle like no other buildings. That’s why Timber-Tec Chinking is engineered for zero shrinkage while accommodating up to 400% elongation so that as your house moves it will continue to be tightly sealed against the weather. Timber-Tec Chinking is odorless, cures to exposure in just one hour, and is easy to apply even in cold temperatures. Timber-Tec Chinking is designed for application in very dynamic joints. It is solvent free, non-shrinking, and its unique cure chemistry allows application down to 30° F. Made in Canada.

 

 

 

Application Temp:	30°F +.
Method:	For these sausage packs, use the Cox Bulk Gun with the factory installed blue cup or a Newborn Bulk Gun. You can spray 99% isopropyl alcohol as you apply and spread chinking in the joint. Don't use water as this promotes faster curing.
Surface Preparation	Inspect bonding surfaces for defects or deterioration or insect damage. Clean all dirt, debris, oil or previous chinking with ammonia water or alcohol. Do not clean with petroleum distillates or detergents, which leave a residue that would interfere with adhesion. See Technical Data for details.
Drying Time	Cure begins when it comes in contact with air, resealing the package will not stop the curring process so it is necessary to plan accordingly. Skin over in about 40 minutes at room temperature. Hot and humid conditions can accelerate skin over time to as little as 20 minutes. See Technical Data for details.
Shelf Life:	1 year. Store at room temperature. Freeze-thaw stable (not damaged by freezing).
Cleanup:	Soapy water/Alcohol mixture.

 

 

 

Questions on maintaining the legacy of your wood structure? Give us a call- 1-800-359-6614

Schroeder Log Home Supply, Inc.
1101 SE 7th Avenue
Grand Rapids MN 55744

www.loghelp.com 

2019 GLLCA Conference

We had a great time with the Great Log Crafters Association this spring. An April snowstorm pushed the scheduled GLLCA Conference into May, which altered a few plans, but ultimately it was an educational and enjoyable conference. One of the outdoor sessions was Mark Weber’s log chain demonstration. He showed how to chainsaw-carve a large-linked chain out of a solid. The unfinished chain went up onto the Association’s fundraiser auction, and now it’s sitting in the SLHS lobby as a point of interest.

There were two experiences highlighting the history of logs in the region—a presentation by Lilah Crowe of the Itasca County Historical Society gave an overview of the history of logging and notable log structures. Later, a visit to the Forest History Center of the Minnesota Historical Society gave a living history experience of life in a 1900 logging camp. Many of the historic tools used in the camps a century ago are still very familiar and used by log builders today—cant hooks, peaveys, axes, and the like.

Some great, educational presentations included engineering for log structures by Asche Engineering, and dustless wet blasting by ABS Blast.

Association members presented on some crafting techniques, including live-edge paneling cut from a curved tree, and an S-Curve log stairway that merged a glue-laminated stringer with half-log stair treads. Another great demonstration was John Beltman’s spring-pole lathe, in which he turned a Windsor chair leg on his lathe powered by a foot petal and a green wood pole.

Preliminary plans are in progress for next year’s moving, annual conference, and those interested in log craft are welcomed to join and watch for updates at www.gllca.org

Great Lakes Log Crafters Conference

Once a year, a group of handcrafted log builders meets in Minnesota, Wisconsin, or Michigan to share ideas on the craft of log building. The Great Lakes Log Crafters Association has been meeting for over 30 years, and describes itself as ‘an organization of professional log builders and others interested in the art of handcrafting log structures.’ This year the moving conference will be meeting April 12 & 13 in SLHS’s own town of Grand Rapids, MN.

The two-day gathering packs in a combination of lecture-presentations and craftsmanship demonstrations. Recent gatherings in the past, members have demonstrated cutting dovetails, scribing and cutting lock notches, media-blasting logs for surface restoration, and chainsaw carving feathers out of scraps from scarf cuts. This year’s conference includes presentations on curved paneling, building an s-curved stairway, historic log structures, and engineering for log, log blasting, and other topics.

Another exciting component to the 2019 Annual GLLCA Conference is the location and venue. The Log Crafters Association will be meeting at The Forest History Center, a site of the Minnesota Historical Society, which features a recreation 1900 logging camp, forest walking trails, and the main interpretive center where most conference of the conference activities will take place. The event is open to public attendance, and registration as a guest can be found here and inquiries can be directed to Kay at info at gllca.org.