FAQ - Sawmill Structures™

What is our structure kit all about?

Making some extra space shouldn’t have to be super complicated and you shouldn't have to be a skilled carpenter to accomplish your goal of building a small structure. Sawmill Structures supplies you with everything you will need to assemble a beautiful and functional structure that is finished inside and out when you are done putting it together. Best of all is we take all of the guess work, measuring, framing and cutting out of the equation! Yes thats right, there is no complicated framing involved thats because all of our kits utilize a very simple locking log construction. You literally just stack up all of the pre milled interlocking pieces to form the walls and gable ends! Everything fits together perfectly right out of the kit with minimal fasteners required. No cutting or measuring required. The whole structure comes perfectly flat packed in a uniformed pallet so we can ship it to you anywhere. You get a detailed step by step manual plus every major part is ID numbered so you know exactly where everything goes during the assembly process.

You get everything you need in the kit - Windows with screens, Doors, Pine Floors, Pine Ceilings, Walls, Gable end and roof beams, all already cut to size.

The only thing not included in the DIY kit is a foundation base ( but we give you a simple detailed building plan for that in the manual) and roof finishing material such as steel or Ondura roof panels. We recommend a sheet style roofing system as its much easier to install than traditional shingles.

We realize not everyone has the time for a DIY project so we also offer you the choice to purchase an assembly package in most areas and we will come and assembly everything for you on your foundation base. Plus we supply and install an Ondura roof when you choose an assembly package. Another option is you can also source a local independent contractor to assemble the kit for you. You even have a rough idea of how much to pay your contractor based on our proven assembly prices. It’s never been easier or more affordable to create some extra space.

Why choose Sawmill Structures?

We always encourage everyone to explore all the options! We are very confident in our value and quality plus we offer you manufacturer direct prices! Paying more for a lesser product really doesn't make sense to us. We always try to be the absolute best value in the industry while offering premium quality products and leading customer service. Compare us to anyone and you will see the value in all Sawmill Structures products and services. We literally have thousands of clients who have done just that and have saves thousands of dollars in the process.

What can the structure be used for?

Our structures are the perfect solution for you to create some extra space for virtually any use you may require. Ultimately its up to you to decide the function for the structure to suit your needs.

Easily create a Bunkie, Home Office. She shed, Man Cave, hot tub enclosure, pool cabana, camping cabin, sauna, yoga studio, art studio, games room, hunting camp, fishing camp or anything else you can dream of!

Do I need a permit?

Typically models under 108 Square feet footprint may not require a building permit in organized townships depending on the specified use of the structure.
Models which exceed a 108 Square feet footprint likely will require a building permit in various organized townships However many provinces and states may differ,
we recommend to always check with your local municipality for clarity on local building bylaws, maximum height requirements and property setbacks.

Can I build the structure myself?

Making some extra space shouldn’t have to be super complicated and you shouldn't have to be a skilled carpenter to accomplish your goal of building a small structure. Sawmill Structures supplies you with everything you will need to assemble a beautiful and functional structure that is finished inside and out when you are done putting it together. Best of all is we take all of the guess work, measuring, framing and cutting out of the equation! Yes thats right, there is no complicated framing involved thats because all of our kits utilize a very simple locking log construction. You literally just stack up all of the pre milled interlocking pieces to form the walls and gable ends! Everything fits together perfectly right out of the kit with minimal fasteners required. No cutting or measuring required. The whole structure comes perfectly flat packed in a uniformed pallet so we can ship it to you anywhere. You get a detailed step by step manual plus every major part is ID numbered so you know exactly where everything goes during the assembly process.

You get everything you need in the kit - Windows with screens, Doors, Pine Floors, Pine Ceilings, Walls, Gable end and roof beams, all already cut to size.

How long does it take to build?

Typically most models can be assembled in a day or two with a couple of people. Larger structures may take a little longer. there is a build time estimate on the product page for each model.

Can you build the structure for me?

We realize not everyone has the time for a DIY project so we also offer you the choice to purchase an assembly package in most areas and we will come and assembly everything for you on your foundation base. Plus we supply and install an Ondura (www.ondura.com) roof when you choose an assembly package. Another option is you can also source a local independent contractor to assemble the kit for you. You even have a rough idea of how much to pay your contractor based on our proven assembly prices. You will need to have the level base complete before we arrive.

Are there delivery options?

We deliver anywhere in Canada and the Continental USA, We have Distribution centres in Ontario Canada and New Jersey.

Can I pick up my order? What is the address?

Yes! Pick up is free at our Milton warehouse.

The address is 2-8400 Parkhill Dr. Milton, ON, L9T 5V7

We will load the skid into your trailer.

Check the product page “ Delivery and pick up” section to view the trailer size you will need for each model.

Can I view the structure in person?

SHOWROOM DISPLAY LOCATION
Our Main Corporate Showroom

Improve Canada™
Self serve showroom Inside Improve Canada Mall

7250 Keele St
Vaughan, ON L4K 1Z8

Enter at Entrance A or O
Display located inside our Units 1,2 & 3

Hours:
7 days a week: 9am - 9pm

Models on display indoors:
• Ontario Grand Loft 107 SD
• Versa Studio 107
• BlueWater Den 67

What type of wood are the structures made of?

Our structures are made from the finest slow growth European/English Pine or Nordic Spruce timbers in 44mm- 70 mm thickness’ depending on the models.
We only use the best materials available and only use DOUBLE tongue and groove profiles, Never single tongue and groove.

What is included in every unit?

We include everything you need such as...
• All wood components pre-cut, notched and ID numbered
• 44 mm - 70 mm thick walls
• 28 mm thick wood flooring
• 18mm-28 mm thick wood roof boards
• Windows with hardware and screens
• Doors with hinges and handles
• Roof structure with beams -
• Hardware
• Illustrated assembly guide

What do I need to buy separately?

You will need to build a foundation base ( Easy plan to follow provided in each manual )
You will also need to provide a roof finishing material such as steel or Ondura roofing panels on all DIY packages.
(We include Ondura roof panels for all assembly packages only)
You will nee to supply an exterior stain after the structure is assembled such as www.cutekstain.com

What tools are required for assembly?

You will need...

• Rubber mallet

• Cordless Drill

• screwdriver bits Phylips and Robertson (#2 for screw #8 and #3 for screw #10)

• Level, 48”

• Ladder, 16’

• Circular Saw (for the last floor board cut)

• Nail gun optional for finishing trim, roof boards and floor boards. ( all can be screwed in as well)

What type of foundation base do I need to install it on?

You should assemble this structure on a flat level base of some kind.
A simple deck base frame using 2" x 8” pressure treated is typical with footings to suit your site conditions.
You can also assemble the structure on a suitable existing deck, patio or concrete slab.
We provide a detailed foundation plan for each model on the product page and in the manual.
See our detail section for examples https://sawmillstructures.com/details/

What type of roof do I need?

You will need to provide a roof finishing material such as steel or Ondura roofing panels on all DIY packages.
(We include Ondura roof panels for all assembly packages only)
Shingles are possible options however sheet style roofing is much easier to install on these structures.
See our detail section for examples https://sawmillstructures.com/details/

Can I run electricity?

Electrical can be easily achieved inside and outside the structure using conduit or baseboard boxes. There are no interior wall cavities to fish wires through.

See our detail section for examples https://sawmillstructures.com/details/

Can the structures be winterized?

We are often asked if our structures are insulated. Many of our clients are very happy using our structures with no insulation at all. A decent heat source inside the structure usually is capable to heat up the small space adequately even in colder climates.

The solid wood InterStack Log™ wall system we use to create the main structure of our kits ranges in thickness from 44mm to 90mm thick (depending on the model) The R value of softwood is rated at roughly 1.41 per inch or 1.41 per 2.54 cm However the real hero with solid wooden log structures is the walls thermal mass properties.

When the interior space of your structure is heated the walls act as thermal mass ( think of a large natural thermal battery) Your heat source warms the air and in turn the wood walls absorb and retain a certain amount of that heat and is able to release it back into the structure over time. This is something typical forms of insulation can not do and is unique to solid wood or stone structures. Given the thermal mass properties mentioned we do not feel it is imperative for you to insulate the walls of your structure.

If desired you may elect to insulate the roof of your structure from the outside. This can easily be done by strapping the outside roof with additional lumber and laying in rigid foam insulation panels before you install your chosen roof coverings. This method will help eliminate heat escape in colder climates and reduce the heat intake in warmer climates. This outside insulating method will also allow you to maintain your beautiful interior pine ceiling.

You may choose to also insulate the floor by installing rigid insulation panels into the floor cavity before you apply the floor boards. A quality and appropriate matched heating or cooling source will keep you comfortable in most climates all year long.

Most clients are very happy enjoying their structures with no insulation at all however its your choice to decide what suites your needs

Is there a warranty? What does it cover?

We offer a two-year warranty on all our parts (excluding broken glass after delivery).
We also offer a 30 Days refund on all purchases.

Do I need to finish the interior or exterior wood? What do I use?

It is important to protect the EXTERIOR of your new structure. We highly recommend Cutek Extreme which is a super penetrating oil product. It is very easy to apply with a brush and takes about 90 minutes to complete the exterior. Cutek offers super protection from the elements while providing a beautiful luster to our wood. One Gallon of Cutek Extreme typically is enough for two coats on most structures. Tints are available if desired but we love the natural tone.

www.cutekstain.com– available at Home Hardware and select retailers

IMPORTANT: The interior of your structure does not require any wood protection other than adding a polyurethane to the floor and or ladder to avoid scuffing