Building and Restoring the Hewn Log House

The best book I have found on the restoration of the traditional log home. Book shows how to restore log homes to their original appearance and even covers such issues as stonework, adding a frame addition that harmonizes with old logs, and the replacement of damaged or unuseable logs. There are a couple of shortcommings: For a book that has the word "Building" (verb)in the title, there is scanty information on the construction of roofs, and almost nothing is said about plumbing or wiring. McRaven is a purist (will not use asphalt shingles on a log home) and clearly has the knowledge,- but I came away feeling a little like the book could have gone further. Still very good in many respects. Highly recommended.

This is critical book in the collection any builder/restorer should have close at hand. The knowledge McRaven shares from his vast experience is a standout among the limited sources available to the restorer. While I am using several sources for my restoration project, I have referred to this one most.

After stumbling upon a tattered copy of the earlier version of this book (now out of print) in the local library, I can only say that I called Mcraven several times LD from Germany in 1993 to check on the publish date of the revised edition. Really an excellent book- essential for the shelf of anyone with an interest in the authentic square-hewn type of cabin.

McRaven describes in detail the steps necessary to ultimately live in a log house. From acquisition through to suggestions for decoration of the interior, this book clearly outlines what is in store for a log house enthusiast. The author also provides helpful suggestions throughout the book. Preservationists, historic resource surveyors as well as people interested in living in a log house will all gain from the content of the book.