~ Visit us on Facebook or Twitter!!
~ Looking for something to do this summer? Visit us at an Open House, Mill Tour or Log Building Workshop! Go to our Special Events page for dates!
The kitchen in this custom home in the middle of the Catskill Mountains features many design details that our customers love. It has modern elements with mahogany stained wood cabinets, stainless steel appliances, beautiful granite countertops and unconventional lighting fixtures, which all mix together with the more rustic elements of log home design.
Photo by Kim Prochazka Photography www.prochazkaphotography.com
A lot of you may have heard the words “Energy Star” but do you know what it really is? Energy Star is an international standard for energy efficient consumer products originated in the United States in 1992 by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and the Dept. of Energy. Homes, buildings, and products carrying the Energy Star service mark generally use 20-30% less energy than required by federal standards.
Did you know that new homes that are Energy Star qualified use at least 15% less energy than a standard home. Now you ask well how does Beaver Mountain fits into all this?…simply by providing you with the high quality products that meet the strict federal guidelines.
We mainly use Andersen® Series 400 windows. Andersen® was one of the first window companies in the nation to meet Energy Star performance requirements in all geographical regions. They have won several Energy Star awards including the 2012 Energy Star award for sustained excellence. An Andersen® 400 series window has a low-e (low-emissivity) coating, which is like sunblock for your window protecting your furniture and home from U-V light. Andersen® Series 400 windows have a low maintenance exterior and a natural wood interior which creates timeless beauty and durability; they also help keep a warm room warm and a cool room cool.
When you enter your home all you will see is the beauty of a Therma-Tru® door but have the knowledge that that door is not only beautiful but energy efficient. Not only is Therma-Tru® an energy star company they are also a green company. By using methods such as using recycled content, fiberglass as a wood substitute, sustainable forestry, and reducing landfill waste not only is a Therma-Tru® door good for your home it’s good for the environment.
) to reduce fading caused by UV light.
When you’re ready to make your log home dream a reality remember these four interior tips to help keep the inside as beautiful as the outside.
Humidity: heating systems can draw large amounts of moisture from the logs. A humidifier may be needed to maintain moisture content and help reduce log checking.
Proper Ventilation: kitchens need to be well ventilated because the oils that are released during cooking can discolor cabinetry, ceilings, and other nearby wood. The rest of your home should be ventilated, but you don’t want drafts bringing in the extra dust.
Preventing UV Damage: selecting Low-E glass for windows and doors and using a “UV boost” with the initial coat of stain on log floors and walls will help prevent discoloration of interior wood.
Protective Stain: a water based acrylic stain is best because it allows wood to breathe and provides a tough film that can be dusted and cleaned easily. Also remember to use it in areas susceptible to water damage such as the bathroom and laundry room. The water base stain also never yellows and helps with the discoloration of the chinking.
Whether you just started thinking about your dream home or have been thinking about it for years, the first step towards designing it should be a “wish list.” As the details of your home come together on paper and an analysis of costs is prepared, this “wish list” becomes your means of:
-trimming cost, if necessary
-adding features to get more out of your project
-planning ahead for future needs and possible improvements
On a pad of paper, list every feature you would love to have in your new home. Then, next to each item, classify each of the features into three categories.
1. Essentials
Things you must have, such as HVAC (heating/air conditioning), garage, or quantity of bedrooms and baths
2. Wants
Things you would like to have, budget permitting, such as a home office, enclosed screened porch(es), fireplaces or Jacuzzi tub w/separate shower.
3. Future Add-ons
Things that you will add on in the future, such as a sunroom or greenhouse, decks or a finished basement.
Once you have your “wish list” finished, and you have found a general home design that you like, be sure to consider your daily lifestyle. Will the plan work for the way you live? Answering these questions will go a long way when designing a floorplan. This list will also help our designers create a plan that you’ll love.
Get started on your wish list today and then call us at 800-233-2770 to schedule your appointment to begin creating your dream home.