If big bold openings are included your vision for your new Katahdin Cedar Log Home, then Andersen® A-Series hinged patio doors, gliding patio doors, casement windows and awning windows are a stunning solution.
Taking Style to New Heights
These new patio doors and windows achieve a grand scale that will enhance that gorgeous view from the great room, or enhance the vaulted purlin and truss features in other areas of your home. The hinged patio doors are available in heights up to 10 feet tall, while the casement fit openings of 8 feet tall and awnings to 4 feet in height and 6 feet wide.
A-Series Features Enhance the Look
Like other Andersen A-Series windows, these large format units have many options for different glass efficiencies — including triple-pane glass in most—and 11 exterior color options. Inside, homeowners can select from six trim styles, six wood species or 13 choices of either stains or paint finishes.
Make a Statement with Art Glass
Any of these windows and doors may also be enhanced with art glass designs that are sandwiched in-between glass panels. Andersen also offers patterned glass options for appealing light and simultaneous privacy. Various finishes and styles for hardware and grilles can further customize these windows.
Designing for Oversized Windows and Doors
We spoke with Jim Lyons, Katahdin’s VP of Design & Engineering to find out what these oversized glass areas might entail in designing a log home. He explained typical ceiling height in log homes is at 8 feet 6 inches, except in cathedral ceiling areas. He also explained that most Katahdin home designs place the upper edge 
of windows and doors at between 6 feet 8 inches and 7 feet, depending on the log diameter being used.
“Taller doors and windows will need a taller log wall to accommodate that height,” Lyons explained. Increasing window and door openings for oversized glass would involve adding overall height to log walls by adding rows of logs to achieve the desired height. According to Andersen, many homeowners who select these large format windows place the bottom edge of the windows at floor level for an impressive glass wall effect. You’ll want to confirm with the local code enforcement office to ensure this is possible.
This is more easily achieved without adding log rows to the entire structure when the taller windows or doors are placed in a cathedral ceiling room, without a contiguous loft area, Lyons explained. He suggested that for symmetry and scale, homeowners might consider using these larger format windows and doors in just one wing or area of the home. More conventional sized windows and doors could then be used elsewhere.
If these grand windows appeal to you, be sure to mention them at the outset of design discussions so that the oversized format can be designed in.