For the problem of getting heavy logs onto the walls of a building, there are many solutions . . .

Getting It Together

The builder who has several log lifting alternatives at his disposal also has the satisfaction of seeing his work go forward with the least possible inconvenience and delay. For the problems of getting big logs up onto a building, the solutions could be divided into two groups: (1) Power Systems and (2) Manual Systems.

The first includes fork lifts, cranes, trucks, cherry pickers (truck or tractor mounted A-frames), power hoists, etc. none of which we will deal with at any greater length here because all machinery dealers are well equipped with beautifully illustrated brochures and eager salesmen to show off all manner of these abominations.

It is the second group that this discussion is concerned with: the ropes, come-alongs, block and tackle, chain hoists . . . the manually operated systems and, in particular, a hoist-carrying floor dolly which I found very effective. But first, a list of the other possibilities:

1. Parbuckle or Cross Haul, a rope method probably the most widely used of all. Illustrated on page 51 of my book “Building With Logs”, 4th edition.

2. Skyline, a very good system where only hand power is available. Also illustrated in “Building With Logs”, page 52.

3. Two-Wheel Cart, as shown below. Consists of two large diameter wooden spoked wheels which serve as a windlass to lift the log. Then many willing hands can push all up on a ramp to the building (see construction photo of Le Chateau Montebello where one is being used).

 

 

 

 

 

 

4. Gin Pole, shown below. It’s a lot of work to build a good and safe set-up. Questionable merit. A winch or come-along will still be needed to lift logs.

5. Mast and Windlass – this is similar to a gin pole. It’s slow but is possible for one man to operate.

6. Floor Dolly – a simple, fast system for any house size. One man can operate it. Requires floor.



The floor dolly is most particularly suited to the re-erection of a log building which has been fashioned as an off-site project. The dolly is simply placed on the floor and the logs hoisted up the side of the building. With the log in its grip, the dolly is then rolled into the desired location and the log lowered.

The dolly can be lifted to the second floor and used to place roof members. It is most useful if short lengths of log are used, as between windows. The short log can, with the dolly, be held in check while it is fitted into place.

With this easily constructed rig, one man can quite readily place all the logs on even a large building.

Reprinted with permission of B. Allan Mackie.