Undertaking a log home, timber frame house, or cottage construction project is not an easy task. You have to follow important steps so that you don’t forget anything. Harkins has been specializing in the field for over twenty years. This is why they were able to establish the main stages of a log home-building project without any problem.
Here are the milestones they suggest you follow in order to carry out your log home or timber frame construction with a master’s hand.
1. Identify your needs and your budget
2. Make an appointment with Harkins
3. Choose your location and lot
4. Mandate plans
5. Obtain quotes for all of the project’s components
6. Apply for the necessary building permits
7. Confirm the project with your contractor
1. Identify Your Needs and Your Budget
As in all project management, knowing the needs and objectives is an important starting point. That being said, identifying your budget realistically is essential.
Before listing your needs, take the time to have your budget in sight and write it down, then take the time to make a list of your needs. Here are some examples of questions to ask yourself:
- A comfortable house for retirement or a rustic wooden cabin?
- With or without a garage?
- Receive many guests or create a quiet family refuge?
- Cook and entertain friends or minimize kitchen space?
- Have one bathroom per room, or be minimalist?
- Include a mud room to accommodate troops and maximize storage or a simple entrance and provide storage in the garage?
Let everything simmer for a few days and then point out what is essential, and what would be interesting, but could be changed.
Then do the budget test. Considering that it is necessary to plan approximately $330 to $400 per square foot for a standard project, ask yourself if your wants are realistic with your budget?
2. Make an Appointment with Harkins, a Renowned Contractor Specializing in Log Homes and Post-And-Beam Homes
Once you know a little more about what you want and you have an idea of your budget, contact Harkins to meet their team of competent people, who are passionate about wooden homes that will help you put your dream plan on paper.
During the initial meeting, you will learn about the steps, deadlines, imperatives, and points to consider. You will probably have many questions in mind before this first discussion, so take the time to write them down. No question is stupid. This is Harkins’ area of expertise and it is their pleasure to help you.
3. Choose Your Location and Lot
Successfully implanting your home is an important step. There are many things to consider when buying your land. For example, are you looking to retreat far into the forest or would you prefer to be near a resort, or a lake?
Do you want to be able to quickly access your chalet, or do you want peace at all costs, even if it means having to move away from all neighbors?
What kind of view are you looking for? What house orientation do you want?
Are you the Laurentians, Eastern Townships, Lanaudière, or rather Gaspésie type? Harkins can deliver your home to all these regions, and they are used to it!
The place of reconstruction of a log structure influences the costs since your house will first be assembled on Harkins’ site, very close to Tremblant, before being numbered, dismantled, and transported to its final residence. An experienced team of carpenters will be on-site to ensure an impeccable assembly.
4. Mandate Plans Based on Your Lot and Budget
Thanks to its architecture team, Harkins offers you personalized plan services that meet all industry standards. These plans will then allow you to obtain an accurate quote and know the costs to be expected for your project.
It is quite possible that you will be recommended to finalize the purchase of your land before completing the plans since these are tied directly to the location of your house.
This is what will make your project totally unique. Your needs, your land, your Scandinavian luxury log home, or your timber-frame wooden house.
5. Obtain Quotes for Every Component of Your Project, From Land Clearing to Roofing
Once the plans are complete, you will have what it takes to get quotes from different contractors. You will have to decide if you want to proceed as a self-contractor or if you want to give the management mandate to a general contractor.
Several elements will have to be taken into account, from the preparation of the land for the construction to the installation of a well and a skeptic system to the connection to electricity, without forgetting about the interior finishing.
If you are unfamiliar with the world of construction, do not hesitate to ask Harkins for advice. They can give you some leads!
6. Apply for necessary building permits
With your plans, your estimates, and your lot of land, you will have to validate with the municipality of your choice if you meet the requirements and obtain your building permit.
If this step is not completed, it will simply not be possible for you to move forward. Don’t overlook potential delays and be sure to meet the requirements of where you will be building!
7. Confirm the mandate with your contractor
That’s it – have you done all the steps? Do not forget to inform the contractor of your choice. Ask them to provide their contract, confirm approximate timelines, confirm final details, and keep communication open.
Building your dream home is a big project and it can sometimes be daunting. By trusting log home and timber frame experts like Harkins, you will not be disappointed and your house will last a very long time!