F.A.Q's - Finnish Living Homes

Below are a number of questions frequently asked during enquiries.

Are log houses warm?
Our design of homes have been used for hundreds of years in the coldest places on earth. Think of Siberia, the frozen Russian plains and deepest Finland, where people live in timber homes offering the best possible insulation and warmth for the harshest environment in Europe.

How fire resistant is the log structure?
Wood in general is an inferior thermal conductor and the spread of fire is therefore very slow. As wood burns at relatively low temperatures, thick solid walls of a log house will carbonise, making the penetration of heat more difficult with little or no toxic gasses being given off.

How long do they last?
Timber log homes in the coldest climates have been known to last for over five hundred years! Timber is one of the most durable, forgiving building materials. That is why log construction is commonly used in Northern Europe and North America. We can provide a Premier ten year guarantee with our buildings that match the NHBC standards.

How ecological is a timber house?
Wood is the only natural and renewable construction material. All timber used to create log buildings are taken from sustainable forestry in Finland, which promote the re growth of the forests for future generations.

Will I need a planning permission?
Most buildings will require planning permission, we can advise on this and help you through the process.

Do building regulations apply?
Any building with sleeping accommodation is classed as a dwelling and will be required to satisfy the local Building Control authority. We can obtain these approvals through our partnering authority, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council.

How much will it cost?
Unlike most log house companies we provide you with a complete package. We will take care of the groundworks, the roofing, the plumbing and electrical work. We will build the log house and ensure you are left with a home ready to move into. Build cost is from £800/m2 depending on the specification you require for your high quality log home. For budgetary purposes, please allow for £1000/m2 for a ‘turn key’ package.

Can I build it myself?
Every length of timber comes labelled and piecing them together in the correct way is a technical job, especially when it comes to the joints. Our skilled team will be happy to work with you in the construction process as many people do want to play a part in the building of their new home.

How long will it take?
The planning and design process can take anything up to 6 months. This is the longest and most frustrating part of the process! Building Regulations is then required, a 4-6 week period is generally required. Once the plans are sent to Finland your new home will be delivered within 6 – 8 weeks and it will then take 8 – 12 weeks to build and finish internally.

What about doors, windows and the roof?
We use a Finnish company who make superior wooden doors and windows which are very solid and highly energy efficient. The price you are quoted includes all windows and doors. The roof is finished in traditional material – usually tiles.

Do I have to paint the outside?
As the wood breathes, ie air passes through the wood, it is essential that if the outside is painted, only a porous paint is used. This finish, available in many different colours as well as natural shades, is also included in the price. A re-coat will be needed every 5 years.