Log Home Construction Tips

Log home construction has come a long way in the last few decades. While full log construction is a traditional, time-honored way of building a log home, it now has the benefit of modern technology and processes.

The beauty of log construction is that it provides its own structure and even its own insulation, not to mention a natural elegance. We are talking genuine log homes, not a frame construction with log siding. Let's be clear on that.

The art of log construction is relatively simple, once a few basic principles are understood. More than likely, you're going to have your home built by a log home builder.  But, there is a basic understanding of log home construction that is essential if you're going to be able to communicate effectively with your builder.

Log home construction can mean different things to different people. It can certainly be about the materials used in building a log home or cabin. But it can also be about the type of house being built or about how to physically build that house.

For more information on types of log cabins or homes, go to house styles.

In this section, we will discuss the following issues regarding log home construction:

• Materials such as the log itself (cedar log, pine log, etc.)
• How to select the type of wood you want
• Log construction for better durability and easier maintenance
• Handcrafted vs. manufactured log construction
• Log styles
• Corner styles

Log home builders frequently have preferred log styles that they use in constructing a new log cabin or house. Once you have a feel for what you like, you should visit a prospective log home builder and make sure that they are willing and capable of building your desired style.

Don't be afraid to go to another builder if you can't find one to build what you want.  Of course, they may show you something different that you may like just as well.  If so, either go with them or move to the next builder and see what they have to offer.

Remember... it's your house or cabin... that you're hopefully going to have for a long time... so do it right and get what you want.

If you are planning on using a builder who does not specialize in log home construction, make sure they will work with your selected log manufacturer and that the log home manufacturer is also willing to make this a joint venture. Find out up front to save avoid any disappointment later!