We use cookies to make your experience better.
To comply with the new e-Privacy directive, you agree to the privacy policy and our use of cookies.
Log Cabin Frequently Asked Questions

Owning a log cabin is the dream of thousands of Americans. If everyone knew the best way to approach building one, they would not hesitate to get started. However, most think it is more difficult to construct one than it really is, and others have heard discouraging comments about them.
Let’s take the problems and scary comments about log cabins out of the picture. Once you see through them with the following answers, you will be more anxious to build one and move in.
Do People Really Enjoy Living in Log Cabins?
Yes, they do whether they live in them full-time or part-time. Many people look forward to renting a cabin for vacations or weekend getaways with family and friends.
- They are homey with a relaxed and comforting atmosphere
- Log cabin living is more physically and mentally healthy
- We can return to nature more in a sustainable ‘green’ cabin
- We can enjoy the amenities of any modern home
Find out why log cabin living is wonderful from the National Association of Home Builders.
What Is a Cost-Effective Way to Build a Log Cabin?
Most people think about a full log structure when they consider a log cabin. That’s great, but there is a better and less expensive way to build using wood log siding with these benefits:
- The log siding simulates the full log look quite well
- Log siding is easily attached to conventional wall framing
- The tongue and groove/end-matching system makes secure and durable joints
- Homeowners with woodworking experience can install the siding
- Wood log siding is virtually a “zero-waste” product
“If everyone knew the best way to approach building one, they would not hesitate to get started.”
Can Log Cabins Be Well Insulated?
Cabins built with log siding are well insulated because the insulation is placed inside the walls. The siding services as insulation as well as the OSB board to which it is secured. The R-value can be increased by making wall framing out of 2x6s instead of 2x4s.
Insulating the attic and under the floors with the right amount and type of insulation increases the R-value even more. Consult with your building and insulation contractors for more information.
Are Plumbing and Wiring Difficult to Install?
Running plumbing and wiring through traditional full logs is difficult, time-consuming, and expensive. The solution is using pine or cedar log siding that allows installation that is almost as easy as using drywall.
The overall construction of your log cabin will be easier and go faster with log siding. Plumbers and electricians are trained to understand installing their products through log siding with a few minor adjustments.
What About Installing an HVAC System?
Installing an HVAC system is no more difficult than installing one in conventionally-built houses. HVAC technicians need only make a few minor adjustments to install them to operate at peak performance. There should be many businesses that will do the work for you.
What Types of Wood Log Siding Are Desirable?
Two of the best woods for log siding are knotty pine and eastern cedar. Knotty pine is the most popular and economical of all woods to use and cedar is one of the most moisture resistant. There are four different log profiles from which to choose as well as a choice of corners and trims.
Are There Disadvantages of Log Cabin Living?
Most of the drawbacks you hear about are those aimed at full log structures including round or square types of logs. These can be reduced such as the overall cost, length of time to construct, finding a builder, and long-term maintenance by building with log siding.
Is Log Cabin Maintenance Difficult?
Any home’s exterior and interior walls need maintenance over time. Log siding is much easier to maintain than full logs because of its structural and dimensional stability. When properly stained and sealed when first built, there will be less maintenance required through the years.
Can Log Cabins Be Adequately Insured at Affordable Prices?
The short answer is ‘yes’ but you may not have an agency near where you live. Log cabin and home insurers can be found online. Whether you deal with a local agent, by phone, or online, you can enjoy the same essential insurance coverages as conventional homes.
Shop around as with any insurance plans to find the best terms and prices. Paying semi-annual or annual premiums may yield the lowest cost.
Do Log Cabins Increase in Value?
Real estate and insurance studies show that log cabins maintained well increase in market value like any other house. If log cabins are scarce where you live, they may command an even higher price. The key is keeping yours in as pristine condition as possible whether you live in it full-time, part-time, or rent it.
The answers to these questions provide many insights into building and owning a log home the easy way – with pine or cedar log siding.