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Kontio WoodHow

Decades of Research, Engineering and Craftsmanship Behind Durable, High‑Performance Log Buildings.

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Kontio WoodHow – Over 50 Years of Log Construction Expertise

 

Kontio WoodHow represents world‑class expertise in log construction. It is Kontio’s way of building with wood, grounded in decades of accumulated knowledge, continuous product development, and advanced technical solutions that ensure reliable performance today and in the future.

Kontio’s journey as a log builder began in the 1970s. More than 50 years of experience, tens of thousands of completed buildings, and full control of the entire production chain—from carefully selected timber to a finished building—form the foundation of WoodHow™ expertise. When material selection, processing, design, and construction are carried out within one organization, quality is not a separate feature but an integral principle throughout the process.

WoodHow is also reflected in Kontio’s everyday product development. Structural systems, connection details, and manufacturing methods are continuously refined to meet demanding climatic conditions as well as the requirements of modern living. Technical solutions are not isolated components, but part of a carefully engineered whole that supports safety, durability, and long‑term living comfort.

Engineered From The Raw Material

WoodHow begins with a deep understanding of wood as a structural material. Kontio uses carefully selected Nordic pine grown in the demanding conditions of Northern Finland. Slow growth, high density, and a high proportion of heartwood contribute to strength, durability, dimensional stability, and predictable long‑term performance in demanding climates.

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Measured Airtightness – a Key Indicator of Kontio WoodHow

One of the clearest and most tangible outcomes of Kontio’s WoodHow expertise is the excellent airtightness of our log buildings. Airtightness is not based on assumptions or theoretical values – it is systematically measured, tested and documented through whole‑building airtightness tests carried out by an independent external expert.

Measured results show that Kontio log buildings achieve airtightness levels close to passive house standards. The average air leakage rate (qE50) of tested buildings is 0.65, and more than half of the measured projects perform even better, reaching values below 0.6, which is typically associated with passive houses. These results demonstrate the technical quality and long‑term reliability of Kontio’s proven, settlement‑free SmartLog log structure.

High airtightness is not achieved through material choices alone. It is the result of careful structural design, precision factory manufacturing and tested technical details. Clear and practical assembly and sealing instructions ensure that WoodHow expertise is transferred consistently from design and production to on‑site construction – an essential factor in kit‑based deliveries where installation may be carried out by local builders or contractors.

From a performance perspective, airtightness directly supports energy efficiency, controlled ventilation and moisture‑safe structures. Reduced uncontrolled air leakage lowers heating demand, improves indoor comfort and helps ventilation systems function as designed. When structures remain dry and airtight, the building retains its technical performance and durability throughout its lifecycle.

Measured airtightness is therefore a key quality indicator of Kontio WoodHow – demonstrating how decades of experience, patented log solutions and systematic development translate into reliable, high‑performing log buildings in real‑world conditions.

 

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Designed for Long‑Term Performance

WoodHow is built on a long‑term perspective. Kontio log buildings are designed for decades of use, combining structural durability, repairability, and simple massive log structures without moisture‑sensitive layers. This lifecycle‑oriented approach ensures that buildings retain their performance, technical reliability, and value over time.

Earthquake‑Resistant Log Construction

Kontio WoodHow – earthquake‑resistant log construction is based on decades of experience delivering reliable log buildings to seismic regions worldwide, including Japan, Central Asia, and Southern Europe. Designed for demanding conditions, Kontio log buildings combine the natural elasticity of wood, massive horizontal log structures, and careful, project‑specific structural engineering to ensure structural safety and long‑term reliability. All buildings are designed in accordance with Eurocode 8, the European standard for earthquake‑resistant construction, while taking into account local seismic loads, site and foundation conditions, as well as national regulations and authority requirements. Compared to many conventional building materials, log walls are inherently lightweight and flexible, allowing structures to absorb and dissipate seismic energy through controlled movement. Kontio’s massive log structure reduces the risk of sudden or brittle damage and supports stable structural performance during earthquakes.

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Structural Performance for Sustainability

WoodHow combines technical performance with responsible building principles. Energy‑efficient, airtight and durable log structures reduce operational energy demand and support long service life. Solid wood structures also enable reuse and material efficiency, making sustainability a structural outcome rather than a separate feature.

 

Read More about Kontio Sustainability