Cordwood
Construction:
A Log End View
by Richard Flatau
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Zachow
farmhouse interior. Built in 1910. |
Cordwood
Construction: A Log End View recounts the author's adventures in building
a 3 bedroom, 2100 square foot home. The first section deals with the pitfalls
and triumphs of a novice building a home using an alternative method. The
Mother Earth News published this portion of the book in a separate article.
Cost estimates, practical suggestions and humorous anecdotes are included.
Next comes a salute to the movers and shakers in the cordwood field. Sketches of Jack Henstridge's Rob Roy's and Cliff Shockey's building experiences are shared.
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The
Best Little Outhouse in Wisconsin
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The main portion of the book deals with: types of wood, types of walls, foundations, zone and code considerations, mortar mixes, formulas for estimating approximate amounts of wood, mortar, sand and sawdust, the proper method for laying up a wall, random patterning, cutting, barking and drying wood, electrical, plumbing and roofing.
A portion on building a Practice Building as a key to learning the mortaring technique is a helpful addition. Plumb bobs, Pitfalls and Pains answers "Frequently sked Questions" and includes a "What would you do differently now that you've lived in it for 20 years" narrative.
The "Cordwood Snapshots" section is a 43-picture tribute to cordwood builders throughout North America. A recommended reading list and ordering instructions finalizes the story.
Cordwood
Construction: A Log End View contains 100+ pictures, diagrams and drawings,
which will take the reader from "house plans to occupancy" (mortgage
free if you follow the recipe). Many neophyte and experienced builders have
used this book to fulfill their housing fantasies.
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Cordwood Lodge, Upper Wisconsin |
Richard also offers House Plans, Cordwood Pole Shed Plans and he stocks all
the other cordwood books currently on the market. So quit dreaming and read
about Cordwood Construction to see if it fits into your hopes and plans.