Cast log structure

Abstract

A structural system includes a plurality of structural elements. Each of the elements includes an interior layer, an exterior layer, and an insulating layer lies between the interior layer and the exterior layer. The structural elements are stacked adjacent one another to form a wall. A respective cushion is placed between adjacent structural elements. The cushions create airspaces such that there is no direct surface contact between adjacent structural elements. The exterior layers of the structural elements can be fabricated from cast concrete material, and can be provided with simulative exterior surfaces, for example, with exterior surfaces simulating the appearance of structural logs.

1 . A pre-cast simulated log comprising: 
 an interior layer cast from a cementitious material;    an exterior layer cast from a cementitious material; and    an insulating layer between the interior layer and the exterior layer, the insulating layer substantially completely isolating the interior layer from the exterior layer.    
   
   
       2 . The pre-cast simulated log  claim 1 , wherein said exterior layer is provided with simulative exterior surfaces.  
   
   
       3 . The pre-cast simulated log of  claim 2 , wherein said exterior layer is provided with exterior surfaces simulating the appearance of a structural log.  
   
   
       4 . The pre-cast simulated log of  claim 1 , further comprising at least one connector rod, the connector rod securing said interior layer to said exterior layer.  
   
   
       5 . A method of preparing a pre-cast simulated log, the method comprising the steps of: 
 casting an exterior layer from a cementitious material;    providing an insulating layer; and    casting an interior layer from a cementitious material;    wherein the insulating layer is between the exterior layer and the interior layer and substantially completely isolates the exterior layer from the interior layer.    
   
   
       6 . The method  claim 5 , wherein said exterior layer is provided with simulative exterior surfaces.  
   
   
       7 . The method of  claim 6 , wherein said exterior layer is provided with exterior surfaces simulating the appearance of a structural log.  
   
   
       8 . The method of  claim 5 , further comprising the step of inserting at least one connector rod in said pre-cast simulated log to secure said interior layer to said exterior layer.