Houseal Non-Settling System™ for Log Homes
The Houseal Non-Settling System™ is the most significant innovation in log home construction since the invention of the chain saw. The Houseal Non-Settling (HNS) System™ prevents logs from settling and solves a host of potential problems for log home builders and homeowners.
Settling in log homes has always been an issue, adding cost and complexity to log home construction. Using traditional methods of construction, logs are stacked horizontally one on top of the other (either scribed or chinked). Because logs tend to shrink and settle over time, the multiple layers of logs compound the effect of wood shrinkage. A traditional 10’ log wall will settle upward of 6 to 8 inches depending upon the moisture content of the logs. Special log home construction methods must be employed to counter the effects of settling. The use of settling jacks, slip joints, and oversized trim and fascia are normal techniques used in traditional log home construction. In addition, constant maintenance is required until the logs have fully settled.
The Houseal Non-Settling System™ is a patented method of constructing log homes that ensures logs will not settle. The HNS System was developed by Barry Houseal, a well known structural engineer and log home expert. The basic premise of the HNS System is fairly simple. Each log layer is held in place by a column of steel pipe and pins. The steel pipe prevents the logs from moving down with gravity. Each log layer and the roof members are supported by the steel pipe.
View the Houseal Non-Settling System™ for handcrafted log homes.
View the Houseal Non-Settling System™ for milled log homes.
Architects and designers love the HNS System because it gives much more flexibility in the use of log elements. Builders love the HNS System because it eliminates settling jacks, trim boards and other construction techniques necessary to counter log settling. Engineers love the HNS System because the steel adds strength to the log walls.
PrecisionCraft has chosen to use the Houseal Non-Settling System™ in all Handcrafted Log Homes and Milled Log Homes. We believe the HNS System is an innovation that adds significant value for our log home homeowners.