Olylog Log Home Screws

I am building a Log Home in Scotland using a tongue and grooved log which is 180mm x 114mm or 7\" x 5\". This Scandinavian sourced house does not traditionally use OlyLog screws, however I would like to use them to reduce the settling time and to straighten twisted logs. Could you advise me on the spacing between the screws and whether I should use OlyLog screws or the heavier LogHog screws for this size of log?

FastenMaster would recommend that you use either the 9" or 10" Olylog screw placed every two feet.  You can also use the 9" or 10" Log Hog screws placed every three feet for extra pull down strength.  The Log Hog screw does have an extra inch of thread making it a very heavy duty product.

What is the thread length for the Olylog screw?

The thread length on all sizes of the Olylog screws are 2" with the exception of the 2 1/2" screws which have a 1 5/8" thread length.

I am building a log cabin using 8x8 square logs, what length would you suggest I use for screws as well as the spacing between the screws? What is the recommended method of securing the logs where there is a doorway or window?

FastenMaster recommends sizing Olylog screws 2" longer than the nominal height of the logs, with spacing of the screws every 2 feet.  So we would typically recommend the 10" Olylog for your home.  Also, since the screws are packaged in 250 piece boxes, an easy method to estimate the boxes of screws you'd need is to divide your linear footage by 500 (250 pieces X 2' spacing). 

On securing the logs over a door or window, the most important rule is to ensure that the log spans longer than the width of the opening.  In that way the log will serve as a lintel or header over the opening.  You definitely need to avoid having a butt joint over the opening.  FastenMaster does not give any specific recommendations on screw placement near openings, but good practice is to fasten screws 6" from each side of the opening.  

Can OlyLog fasteners be used to fasten decking materials?

OlyLog screws are rated for use in deck framing and are ACQ approved. You may, however, find the Headlok Panel Fastener screw to be preferable in this case as it has a flat head instead of a hex head. The Olylog will also find very good use here in making rafter connections.

In addition, I would recommend the OMG Ledgerlok for attaching the deck ledger boards to the house's rim joist. Its larger diameter is much more suited to the heavier loads of this connection.

Lastly, I would recommend the OMG Guard Dog or the OMG Trio Deck Screw for attaching the decking boards. Their small size works very well here.