This document is an installation manual for the "DAFTBADGER 4.0m x 3.0m (45mm) Log Cabin" by Dunster House, model E10-4030DB-45. It provides comprehensive instructions for assembling the log cabin, along with important information regarding the nature of wood, treatment, and troubleshooting.
Function Description:
The Dunster House DAFTBADGER log cabin is a wooden structure designed for outdoor use, likely as a garden office, storage shed, or recreational space. The manual guides users through the entire construction process, from preparing the base to installing the roof, doors, windows, and internal fittings. It emphasizes the importance of proper installation and maintenance to ensure the longevity and structural integrity of the cabin.
Important Technical Specifications:
The log cabin has external dimensions of 4.0m x 3.0m, with a wall log thickness of 45mm.
The manual includes a detailed "Parts List" (Page 2) outlining all wooden components, nails, screws, bolts, and accessories.
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Wooden Parts:
- Bearers (Pressure treated): Various lengths (e.g., 3850mm, 2785mm, 2900mm, 2760mm, 2330mm, 1900mm, 1870mm, 1390mm, 1325mm) with dimensions of 32mm (THK) x 47mm (WIDTH). These form the base of the cabin.
- Roof Board T&G (Tongue & Groove): 19mm (THK) x 97mm (WIDTH) in lengths of 1590mm and 800mm.
- Floor Board T&G: 19mm (THK) x 97mm (WIDTH) in lengths of 3760mm.
- Wall Logs: Various lengths (e.g., 3990mm, 2990mm, 2960mm, 1960mm, 700mm, 640mm, 600mm) with dimensions of 44mm (THK) x 121mm (WIDTH). Specific types include "Bottom Wall Log" (44mm THK x 64.5mm WIDTH), "Top Wall Log Left/Right" (44mm THK x 121mm WIDTH x 4055mm LNG), and specialized "Wall Log G," "Wall Log FB," and "Wall Log B."
- Apex: 44mm (THK) x 334mm (HT) x 2990mm (LNG).
- Purlin: 45mm (THK) x 140mm (WIDTH) x 4055mm (LNG).
- Eaves Edging: 19mm (THK) x 70mm (WIDTH) in lengths of 3000mm and 2000mm.
- Fascia Board: 19mm (THK) x 96mm (WIDTH) x 1660mm (LNG).
- Storm Brace: 19mm (THK) x 38mm (WIDTH) x 1960mm (LNG).
- Trim: 19mm (THK) x 38mm (WIDTH) x 1960mm (LNG).
- Trapezoid: 19mm (THK) x 120mm (WIDTH) x 150mm (LNG).
- Corner Door Top Log Filler: 45mm (THK) x 100mm (WIDTH) x 1230mm (LNG).
- Doors & Windows: "E10 - CORNER NARROW DOUBLE DOOR - 45" (HT 2050mm, WD 1455mm, Wall THK 44mm) and "E10 - NARROW WINDOW - 45mm" (HT 1605mm, WD 620mm, Wall THK 44mm).
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Fixings:
- Nails: 564 x 40mm nails.
- Screws: 4 x 120mm, 4 x 90mm, 52 x 70mm, 114 x 50mm, 82 x 35mm, 8 x 20mm.
- Bolts: 20 x M6 Washers (25mm), 10 x M6 x 80mm Hex-Head Bolts, 5 x M6 Nuts, 5 x M6 Wing Nuts.
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Accessories:
- 2 x Vent Sets.
- 1 x Installation Manual (paper copy).
- 1 x Door Handle Set and Accessories.
- 3 x Window Handle Set and Accessories.
Usage Features:
- Modular Design: The log cabin is assembled from pre-cut wooden logs, designed to interlock.
- Customizable Layout: The layout of doors and windows can be changed by installing relevant logs on opposite sides of the cabin or the front wall. However, the position of XN logs (top wall logs with angled slopes) cannot be changed.
- Optional Add-ons: The manual mentions optional roof insulation and additional doors/windows, with specific installation instructions for these components.
- Natural Wood Aesthetics: The cabin utilizes soft wood, which has inherent natural characteristics like knots, cracks, and warping, contributing to its rustic appearance.
Maintenance Features:
- Timber Treatment: The cabin requires treatment with a suitable timber treatment containing a water repellent immediately after construction. Periodic re-application is necessary. Users are advised not to apply treatment too thickly to allow logs to move freely.
- Troubleshooting Guides: The manual includes sections for troubleshooting common issues such as door locks not working, doors being stuck, and addressing timber splits, knot holes, and sap.
- Component Replacement: Information is provided on how to order replacement parts if components are damaged or missing.
- Slotted Holes for Movement: Door and window frames are secured with screws through slotted holes, allowing for natural vertical movement of the wall logs over time while maintaining horizontal position. This design accounts for the natural expansion and contraction of wood.
- Storm Braces: Storm braces are installed to enhance the structural stability of the cabin, particularly in areas prone to strong winds. They are designed with slotted holes at the bottom to allow for vertical movement of the logs.
- Apex Vents: Circular slatted vents are installed in the apex to ensure proper ventilation, preventing moisture buildup.
The manual strongly advises users to read all instructions carefully, check all components before assembly, and prepare a level and stable load-bearing base. It also provides a list of tools required for construction and links to online construction videos for visual guidance.