Some of you could be used to their city life and would not even bother living in the countryside where houses are built out of logs. You might not even want to smell the natural scent of furniture because everything is made from wood. However, you should know that this isn’t just any lumber and I believe that it could be a part of your family’s story.
I suppose you’re thinking about such old types of wooden houses that are usually found in the mountain areas. But keep in mind that architecture changes and we now have rustic and modern type log cabins which you’ll surely love to have. The best architects in town can always help you with customized designs that surely suit your budget.
All you need is to find a contracting company that can set things up perfectly, thus, you’ll require experts. Choosing the right materials for this kind of housing project is very important so make sure it will be handled properly. Anyway, as long as a contractor is trustworthy and the best in this industry, successful completion of your project can be anticipated.
What are log cabins?
Do you know that these types of houses were first built by our ancestors during the 17th century? The residents constructed their homes with horizontal timber and locked the ends using notches. I guess during those days, finding lumber would be easy when you’re around the East Coast.
But today, you can find such types of homes anywhere, though they’re built on your preferred designs. Finding the materials is easier not only when it comes to structure and foundation. Lumber is also used for interior and exterior construction, as well as, pieces of furniture.
Homeowners will just need to find contracting companies that excel in this type of architecture. Assembly would be faster when they have experts working together. Not to forget that this must be built at the right location, too, since a drainage system and sunlight are required.
Characteristics
- Assembled with wooden materials, such as pine, oak, cypress, maple, etc. – see https://www.quora.com/What-are-the-best-type-of-trees-to-use-when-building-a-log-house-or-cabin for more info.
- Most foundations are usually made of stone since this will protect the structure from moist soil.
- Originally they were constructed with a single room, but today’s size will depend on your land’s area.
- Before, windows were covered with animal skin. We can now use glass, this will allow light and air to pass through the openings.
- Gravel can be used on the floor, though we have different types of tiles nowadays.
- Of course, the roofing system uses lumber, too, so they have rafter or purlin.
- There is often a fireplace made of brick or stone to warm up the place.
Construction Styles
- Full scribe is a traditional style where logs are horizontally stacked with tight fitting to form walls. There aren’t insulations installed, thus, little spaces are required between the loads. This will allow settlers to experience an authentic feel once they settle, though it may require some adjustments in time.
- Chink style is also a traditional type just like a full scribe but more flexible and durable. However, these are designed with saddle-notches which you can find at the corners and chinking mortar between the spaces.
- Post-and-beam and timber frame styles both use structural support in vertical position. But they differ in shape so we have round for post-and-beam. While timber frames are in square cuts.
- Hybrid is a combination of various styles, construction methods, and raw materials. Both interior and exterior are flexible when it comes to designing – look at this for further reading.
Architecture
The structure could be based on simple to complex architectural designs. Of course, it was from various influences, such as Scandinavian, Vernacular, and Adirondack architectures which rose in different eras. However, settlers would always choose something closer to nature no matter how it would be constructed.
There’s always something that won’t be missing in those masterpieces even if when purchasing kits for construction. That would be a stack of logs and interlocked joints because that’s how walls will be formed. Not to forget fillers that would be filling up the gaps.
One thing that settlers from all over the world would like to enjoy is luxury, especially when staying for a vacation. It could be perfectly built as a single room or for family-sized houses. But the fact that many of these were specially made in the mountains would be an ideal getaway trip.
Log Home Kits
These are packages you may purchase from contracting companies. It contains resources that are necessary when constructing your wooden house. However, you still need other materials for your flooring, furniture, etc. since the kit is often prepared for the skeletal structure only.
Well, that would be fine for a DIY when you have carpentry skills. Without a plan designed by an expert, it would be ideal to contract a company that can design and provide your kit. Let’s say that you should choose a complete package.
Anyway, everything will depend on your preferred materials for the foundation, interior, exterior, sub-flooring, and finishes. That’s why before ordering a package you have to be certain of what’s included. In this way, you can prepare other materials, too.
Considerations when Choosing a Kit
Availability
Choose a company with available packages or ready for purchase. Are materials you prefer on hand, refined, and finished?
Bear in mind that you have several options for the type of wood. Therefore, if the species of trees are available, then sending the package to you would be faster.
Don’t forget that joining corners is also a part of your plan. We have saddle, dovetail, pass, and butt notches. By the way, make sure that they are dry since this element will affect the components and overall outcome of your house.
Contractor
There are surely thousands of companies providing such services in your area. This is why you have to be meticulous.
Make sure that they’re registered and accredited by reliable associations. They should be offering assistance or installation services, and warranties, too.
Daryl Green 
Barbara Ratliff 
Andrew Williams