Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
beams to cover these. Try not to cut through beams for
big pipes; it weakens them. We usually set this boxing
up between the beams as far as possible to let part of
the beam show, then insulate around the pipes to cut
the noise. A cast-iron main drain here reduces noise
of upstairs flushing
Upstairs you may have irregular shapes to finish if
you have inner roof surfaces, low roof angles, dorm-
ers, or odd-shaped windows and doors. Here again we
use shiplap paneling, unless an owner wants drywall.
In that case, we subcontract this part of the job. (The
people who work for me do so to get away from that
kind of building.)
Boxing in plumbing pipes with an open-beam ceiling can be done with
a chase. Recessing the boarded-in ceiling area leaves the beamwork
exposed. Sound can be deadened with insulation.
Lighting
Lighting is a major consideration inside your cabin,
and is often difficult to do well. A constant complaint
is that log cabins are dark. During daytime, you rely
on the number and placement of windows. However,
nighttime is another matter. You do not have the
advantage of white walls to reflect your light source.
The dark wood will absorb much of any illumination.
You will want to play every trick in the topic to lighten
your log room, including decorating with light-
colored furniture.
Increasingly, builders and restorers are cutting out
log space for more and larger windows. This weakens
the structures and loses much of the traditional cabin
appearance. However, with judicious planning, you
can use larger or more numerous windows in selected
walls. It is especially pleasant for the kitchen to be
bright and cheerful during the day without artificial
lighting. Keep in mind, though, that additions like
porches will often darken even a room with good
window placement.
Lighting fixtures are both decorative and functional
items to accomplish specific tasks. You are not limited
to using a fake wagon wheel hanging light. You have
many options from custom to commercial fixtures. If
you have strong preferences and some knowledge, you
can make these choices yourself with careful shop-
ping. Electric supply companies often have staff light-
ing designers available who can be of great help.
Most cabins have more beamwork than a normal
house and this must be taken into consideration.
Here, a chase is built against a log wall to house both plumbing pipes
and electrical wires. Chases can be camouflaged by making them into
cupboards or parts of bookshelves (below). HVAC chases can also be
installed in a log house, but will require more careful planning.
