EXTERIOR SNOW BLOCKING

                Snow blocking is the component which encloses that area between the top of the log wall and the bottom of the roof system.  The area must be sealed horizontally between rafters, and vertically from the top of the log wall to the bottom of the 2x6 tongue & groove decking of the roof or second floor.  You must install exterior snow blocking around the top perimeter of your log walls to complete the dry-in phase of construction.  Interior snow blocking should not be installed until construction is near completion and is not a part of the dry-in process.  Use the following illustrations as a guide to snow blocking installation.

                Determine the material you will use for snow blocking (matching log siding, 1x material, etc.).  Then calculate the set back you will need to cause the exterior edge of the snow blocking to the flush with the exterior profile of the top log in the log wall.  Use 2x scrap material to attach nailers to the inside faces of the rafters.  Cut each piece of snow block material to a length to fit between the rafters and to a height to fit between the top log and the roof decking.  Cut the top of the snow block at the angle of the roof pitch so it will fit flush with the roof decking.  Once cut, nail the snow blocking to the 2x nailers on the side of the rafters.

                Snow blocking under covered porches is built by constructing a studwall (usually 2-feet high) between the top of log wall and the bottom of the porch roof decking.  The studwall should be set back flush with the house rafters so that when profile log siding is attached to the exterior of the studwall, it will fit flush with the exterior log wall profile.  A continuous vent strip should be mounted between courses of siding to provide an air entryway for the vented roof system.