Considerations to Make Before Building a Log Home

Important Considerations to Make Before Building a Log Home

Building a log home takes a lot of planning but is a beautiful option for a home.  There is just something so classic about a log home.  If you are planning to build a log home there are some important considerations to make before the building process begins.  Some things you’ll be able to decide on later, but here are seven considerations to think about before building a log home. 

Choose Flooring Wisely
Though flooring may seem like a decision you can make while building your log home, you should actually consider it before you start building.  This is because the flooring can have an impact on the overall construction design. 

Let’s talk about an example.  If you already built the structure of your log cabin and then decide you want hardwood flooring, you may run into a functional problem that could have been avoided.  Hardwood flooring is susceptible to moisture which means that if you were planning on using your log cabin during the rainy or snow season and haven’t thought ahead to add a mudroom, you’ll be tracking a lot of water across your hardwood floors when you come in and out.  Though this may seem simple, you could make your log home far more functional for your lifestyle just by considering your flooring options before building. 

An additional option in that example would be to just use vinyl flooring that looks like wood so that it is more water-resistant but you still get the look you want.  The flooring is an important consideration as it is going to play a large role in the functionality of your log home.

Get the Most Out of Your Layout
Before you start building your log home, you’ll need to deeply think about the layout and how it will work for your needs.  Each of us lives a different lifestyle which means that the same layout isn’t great for everyone.  Before you build, ensure that you consider where you want every room, whether you need a specialized room, and how much space you need in every area. 

Considering the layout before building might be a given, but you can get so much more out of your log home if you go through and scrutinize what you need in the layout. 

Keep in Mind the Type of Windows
The type of windows you are putting in will determine a lot during the building process.  Vinyl windows are one of the best options as they are energy efficient and come in a lot of different sizes.  Other types of windows may need to be custom ordered to fit depending on the size. 

Additionally, before you build your log home, you need to decide how many windows you want and where you want them so that things like electrical and plumbing can be arranged around them. 

The Roof is Vital 
The roof of your log home will take the brunt of the elements.  The type of roof and shape you choose will determine the underlying structure but you’ll have to contemplate the weather conditions in the location you choose so that you pick a material that will last. 

Metal, wood, slate, and asphalt roofing materials can all be used on a log home, but each of them has its own benefits.  For instance, metal roofs hold up in any weather and last a lot longer than asphalt roofing. 

Additionally, several roof shapes are directly linked to what log structure you can put under them so pick out your roofing before you begin to build. 

Plan for Accents
Some accents will need to be decided on before the building process begins because they will affect the construction. 

For instance, if you want a shiplap in the kitchen, you will need it installed by the builders or flat interior walls so that it can be added later.  Interior exposed beam accents will have to be thought of ahead of time as well.

As another example, if you want a covered porch, it is far easier to implement that element if it is in the build plans than to add it later. 

Location, Location, Location

You have heard realtors say “location, location, location”.  This is because, with any home, including log homes, it is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.  The location of your log home is one thing that definitely can’t be changed in the future so make sure you find somewhere that you love and is convenient for your life. 

Also, you’ll want to think about the orientation of the home and how it will affect the natural light coming in, the driveway, and the layout.

Plan for Outdoor Spaces
Before you build your log home, think about the outdoor spaces you want.  You’ll want to ensure that you have enough room for them and that you build the log home in a place on the property that isn’t too close to property lines. 

One of the most popular outdoor spaces to add to a log home is a patio or deck with a pergola kit.  This is because it gives a place to enjoy the view and be in nature, but still has some coverage from the pergola kit.  The addition of a pergola kit to your patio or deck will provide the perfect balance of being in nature while providing some shelter outdoors.  It also gives you a place to hang lights or plants for decor.

Begin Your Log Home Build 
Once you have considered these important elements, you’ll be ready to build your log home.  Ward Cedar Log Homes are your go-to log home builder and will help you iron out the details.  Happy building!

Todd Gillman is the content director for the Innovative Building Materials blog and a content writer for the building materials industry. He is focused on helping fellow homeowners, contractors, and architects discover materials and methods of construction that save money, improve energy efficiency, and increase property value.