Highlight on Hybrid Homes

Combining logs and timbers with conventional construction techniques gives homeowners the “best of both worlds” in their new home. Here’s how.

It’s no secret that Ward Cedar Log Homes is known for crafting quality houses — we’ve been doing so for more than 100 years. In fact, we proudly hold the title of “America’s first log home manufacturer.” But what you may not know is that we are also industry leaders in the world of hybrids, with around half of the homes Ward produces each year falling into this category.

While the term “hybrid” is open to a number of interpretations across the home building industry, within the Ward family, we use the term “hybrid” to mean a home that uses traditional framing techniques combined with log and/or timber elements.

Depending on your unique building goals, there are a number of reasons to choose a hybrid home over full log construction. Here are three top reasons our satisfied clients have opted for a hybrid home and why you may want to consider one, too.

Reason #1 to go hybrid: You love the look of logs but are building in an extreme climate.

For those building in an area prone to drastic temperature changes — whether it’s a mountain locale with frigid winters or a desert known for sizzling summers — a hybrid offers a smart solution to your building needs. Ward hybrid homes are known for their excellent energy efficiency thanks to the pairing of traditional 2-by-6 stick-frame construction and 6-inch fiberglass insulation (with the option of an additional 1-inch of rigid insulation) with cedar log siding and interior paneling. This combination creates a comfortable, airtight structure with an R-value over 30 designed to meet stringent energy codes, while also allowing your home to achieve the look and feel of a traditional log home.

Reason #2 to go hybrid: You have aesthetic design preferences that call for a mix of materials inside or out.

The beauty of a Ward hybrid home is that it can suit a number of aesthetic styles. If a full log look is what you’re after, our hybrid package typically includes exterior cedar log siding with full log corners and northern white cedar interior paneling, creating the look of a full log home. But if you prefer to personalize your hybrid with a mix of materials, the options are nearly endless. Our hybrid package can be customized to allow for board-and-batten siding, shakes, stone and more on the exterior. Inside, you are free to swap out tongue-and-groove cedar for drywall, reclaimed wood, stone or any other finish element you desire.

Reason #3 to go hybrid: You’re building on a budget.

Because hybrid homes offer a range of customizations, they can be a smart option for cost-conscious homeowners. Each of our packages can be customized to your needs, putting you in the driver’s seat when it comes to your budget. A client-favorite tip for a budget-friendly hybrid: reserve logs and timber elements, like trusses or other decorative accents, for high-visibility areas to get the most bang for your buck.

Feeling inspired? Reach out to find out how we can customize every single space of your dream home to your exact lifestyle and budget.

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