Package Erections
Oftentimes clients approach us after they have decided on a "kit" home. These kit packages are like giant erector sets that come all at once on two or three tractor trailer loads. For the most part, the walls come panelized the rafters come cut and the remaining "bulk" comes as "running feet" of material. Usually, a kit home only has the "shell" materials included, and all interior finish materials still have to be purchased. To be fair there are also post and beam as well as log kits available more on these can be seen in the FAQ section. The allure of a kit home is mystical. People get to see the finished product, the model home, which seems to fulfill their dreams. Most of these places now also have in house architects highly trained on a CAD system (computer aided design). Typically they'll tailor prints to your liking and give you a set to take home. It is hard to say no when it seems so easy. And to top it off, the shell price seems low and enticing. In reality, labor is the majority of the cost of any home. Granted the prefabricated parts may save a week or two of jobsite labor, but that is the only benefit. From a builder's point of view, there is less profit in a package home because the material mark-up has been taken by the supply company to start. They are in business for a reason. You can't "shop around" for a deal. Package homes also require a large staging area. Not only do you have to store two or three trailer loads, but you also have to keep them safe and dry from people and the elements. It can be a real headache. With that said, there is a niche for a package home industry. If you are short on time it can be a real savior. Some clients don't want to get overly involved in the building process. Some clients don't want to get involved with an architect or designer. If these traits describe yourself then maybe a package home is for you. But don't do it to save money!
This is "Timberpeg" post and beam structure on a private lake. Noteworthy is the hand split cedar roof with copper flashing
This is a "Hamilton County Home" from the early '90's. Although no longer in business, many dot the Adirondack landscape. The dated "chalet" look was their trademark.
At the left is a package home from Stephenson Lumber Co. Although the picture doesn't do it justice, it is beautifully finished inside, and it features floor trusses which give a wide open walk out basement.
These are four separate panelized log home packages from the Beaver Mountain Log Home company. Of all the package home companies we have dealt with, they are by far the best. The first one we did was in 1990, and after getting on the "contractor list" we did three more projects by them. Although they look like real log homes, in actuality they are based on a 2x6 stud wall, giving them superior insulation and air-infiltration qualities when compared to a true log home.
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