Log & Timber University: Building Your Dream Home
with Alex Charvat
ON-DEMAND COURSEÂ NOW AVAILABLE
Possibly the most frightening part of the log or timber home journey and the portion fraught with the most peril is the construction stage. In this class, we’ll help you choose the right supplier and builder for you. You’ll learn how to reduce costs, get bids, negotiate contracts and navigate the permitting process. Discover all the questions you need to ask before you build and what to expect during the construction phase. Worried about foundation issues or if your plumbing, roofing, and electrical meet code? We’ve got you covered. You’ll be able to confidently handle every detail as you go from blueprints to moving in!
Course Overview
In this course you’ll learn:
- Setting realistic expectations for the build
- Where things can go wrong
- Getting ready to buildPre-construction checklist
- Good versus poor construction
- Buyer beware tips
- How to choose sub-contractors
- Engineering and Permitting
- Excavation and Foundation
- Framing, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing
- Interior and Exterior Finishes
- Settling
- Warranties
- Sample Construction Timeline
- 7 Essential Questions to ask *before* you break ground
We originally launched Log and Timber Home University in 1985, held in conjunction with our Log & Timber Home Shows. We're adding this online edition to help buyers who can't come to an in-person show and, for live show attendees, this series is also a great way to reinforce what you've learned.Â
With helpful video lessons, worksheets and questionnaires, you’ll be well on your way to living in your dream log or timber home!
Other courses in the series will cover tips on getting started, what to expect during the construction phase of your project, and care and maintenance once you've moved in.
Meet Your Instructor
Alex Charvat
Alex Charvat is a Professional Engineer licensed in multiple states. He has worked as a forester in the Pacific Northwest, has engineered and designed hundreds of log homes ranging from $20,000 cabins to $18 million ranches. He is the engineer of record for NAHB’s Log Home, Log Grading program and is also the engineer of record for over 30 threaded fasteners used in log home and residential construction, many found at big box stores. He’s hosted his own log cabin renovation show on DIY network called Cabin Rescue and has consulted on log cabin renovations featured on HGTV. He is the owner of Alexander Structures, Inc., based in Conifer, CO. His company has been in business since 2002. (www.alexanderstructures.com ) Alex holds a Bachelor of Science in Forest Science and a Master of Science in Agricultural Engineering—Structures, both from the University of Wisconsin.
