A log home goes up.
Have you long dreamed of building a natural, all-wood log home? Have you found a beautiful piece of land that will be complimented by a warm and snug log home or cabin? There is a wide choice in log home sizes, craftsmanship and style. From the most primitive mountain hunting retreat to a luxury, lakefront family home, there are many choices that lay before the potential log home owner. Research and consultation with a log home professional will answer most questions.
Wood Type
Select the type of wood you wish to use to build your home. Cedar, white pine, fir and cypress are popular choices. Each type of wood has advantages and disadvantages. Cost of different types of wood can vary substantially.
Building Site
Select an elevated, well-drained location when locating your log home. Consider how the site will be graded to divert drainage from rain or snow melt.
Log Style
When building a log home, the homeowner is faced with a diverse and often confusing amount of choices. Do you wish to build a luxury, full hand-scribed or chinker style home? These choices are labor-intensive, and the extra labor and log handling will be reflected in the building cost. Hand-peeled logs are very handsome and a popular choice. You can elect to hand-peel the logs yourself or have a craftsman provide the talent and labor. Milled logs can be crafted to resemble handcrafted logs when hand-scribed corners are applied. A timber frame home is another luxury option that presents a hybrid of timbers, logs and rock masonry. Research all the various options to be an informed consumer. The difference between a milled or kit home and a luxury handcrafted home is reflected in the workmanship and quality of construction.
Choosing a Builder
Research the log home builders that have built homes in the area where you plan to build. Localized professionals will have access to goods and services you will require and can save you time and money. Ask to see homes they have built and carefully evaluate the workmanship. There is a immense difference in the construction cost and the quality of luxury log homes. It is important to know the difference before you decide on a contractor.
