The Craft of Modular Post & Beam: Building log and timber homes affordably (Paperback)

~ (Author) "The structure and style of mankind's dwellings have historically been closely linked to regional climate and the availability of suitable building materials and tools..." (more)
Key Phrases: infill logs, rafter line length, scriber setting, Span Tables, North America, Building Code (more...)

Editorial Reviews

From Library Journal

The post-and-beam method of construction, which uses a sturdy framework of logs or hewn timbers, has become increasingly popular. Builder and instructor Mitchell has developed a method of making such structures in modular sections. He takes the reader from tree to finished house, showing how to cut logs, hew them into workable sizes, and join them together. He also illustrates wall construction, making openings for windows and doors, and making foundations for differing site conditions. Although the techniques Mitchell uses are difficult, the instructions and illustrations are clear. Log construction has come a long way since Daniel Boone's time?axes have been traded for chain saws and routers?but working with logs is still heavy, dangerous work. Although safety is touched upon, it's assumed that the reader is experienced. Recommended for public libraries with extensive building collections.?Jonathan N. Hershey, Akron-Summit Cty. P.L., Ohio
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Details

• Paperback: 361 pages
• Publisher: Hartley and Marks Publishers (June 1, 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0881791318
• ISBN-13: 978-0881791310
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 7.3 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.6 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #45,027 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

  Popular in these categories: (What's this?)

  #4 in	Books > Professional & Technical > Engineering > Civil > Construction > Wood
  #11 in	Books > Home & Garden > Home Design > House Plans
  #19 in	Books > Home & Garden > Small Homes & Cottages

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

111 of 115 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An excellent book on post and beam log construction, November 22, 1998

By A Customer

This book may well be the "bible" of post and beam log construction. Covers in excellent detail basic to advanced post and beam design and construction. From house design, foundations, floors, walls, doors and windows, and an extensive chapter on roof design and construction. Explains log hewing with a broad axe and the use of other log shaping tools. Covers log joinery in detail. Includes hundreds of illustrations, a portfolio of color pictures of post and beam joinery, 6 appendixes, Glossary, and Bibliography.

26 of 27 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars I actually did it., June 21, 2005

By	R. Trower (Perryville, AR) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

The other reviewers of this book allude to the fact that they will someday get around to using the information. I have already done it and wanted to add my comments here.

I used this book as my "bible" to construct a 24x40 log home with a porch wrapped all the way around. It took two years, but I couldn't have done it by myself without the theories and examples in this book. My joinery isn't as pretty as the ones in the book, but I used them and wooden pegs to secure all the posts and beams in the house.

I highly recommend this book to all who have their own 'library' of log home books and need some practical advice that works.

8 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Craft of Modular Post & Beam, January 10, 2004

By	Rob (NH) - See all my reviews

I first stumbled on this wonderful book in our local library. Read it cover to cover in two weeks and unfortunatly had to return it but, it is on my birthday wish list. This is the most informative book on the subject I have read to date. Mr Mitchell did an excellent job in the chapters covering the details of modular log home construction. Many of which I plan to use in the very near future.