Log Homes - Whats Different About Log Homes?

Newcomers to the world of log homes will notice that log homes look different than conventional "stick-built" homes. But are log homes really different, other than in appearance? If so, how?

Let's take a look at some of the ways in which log homes differ from conventional homes.

Log Walls - This is the main difference. Instead of walls constructed of 2x4 or 2x6 framing lumber, packed with insulation, covered on the outside with with sheathing, moisture barrier, and siding, and on the inside with sheetrock and paint, log homes simply have solid log walls. The logs act as their own thermal and weather barrier, as well as being the primary load-bearing structure in the house.

Style - Although log homes can be built in practically any style, most log home owners prefer the traditional "cabin" or "lodge" style. This style is often distinguished by such features as wood flooring, wood interior, stone fireplace and chimney, porch, loft, rustic staircase, open floorplan, raised-seam metal roof, cathedral ceilings, and exposed interior beams.

Maintenance - Conventional home exteriors typically need to be washed, repaired, and painted every few years. Log homes are similar except that, instead of paint, they require a preservative stain combined with a treatment to prevent insect damage. As with any home, log walls must be protected from excessive moisture.

Utilities - Since many log homes are built in rural or mountain locations, some standard utility services may not available. Often, log homes use propane gas, water wells/pumps, and septic waste systems.

Cost - Log homes typically cost 10%-30% more than a similar conventionally-built "spec" home primarily because most log homes are custom-built with unique features. However, there are many ways in which costs can be eliminated or reduced.

Financing - Construction loans for log homes are usually different that those for conventional homes, primarily because log home "kit" providers want to be paid up front, and getting comparable appraisals can be somewhat difficult. Therefore, some banks and mortgage companies don't like to finance log homes. This may mean a little more legwork to find a cooperative bank or a mortgage company that specializes in log home loans.

Al Hearn is owner and operator of http://www.LogHomeAdvisor.com, a web site for log home enthusiasts that provides information and advice about planning and building log homes.

---

Ladder Décor ? the Possibilities Are Endless

With a little bit of creativity and some imagination you... Read More

Interior Design For Babies

Babies, babies, babies-yes the topic of this article is based... Read More

Choosing A New Floor

Is it time to give that tired kitchen floor a... Read More

Reduce Your Heating Bills This Winter

Imagine leaving a window open all winter long -- the... Read More

An Interview with Design Psychology Expert Jeanette Fisher

Interview with Jeanette Fisher by Gary Anderson, of ... Read More

Why Should You Need Tools for Everyday Living

How often you have used tools for your everyday living?... Read More

Bamboo Flooring for the 21st Century

Bamboo flooring has emerged as a new material for the... Read More

Choosing The Right Window

When you have reached the decision to purchase new windows... Read More

Planning Permission Tips UK - Garage Conversions - What Value Do They Add?

Most conversion works to an existing structure is often more... Read More

Duvet Covers Are Easy to Make Yourself

Duvet covers are rather versatile when you think about it.... Read More

With A Stylish Bathroom Vanity You Can Take Pride In Your Bathroom?s Appearance!

An easy way to instantly improve your bathroom's image is... Read More

Small Cabin Plans - Finding a Great Log Cabin Plan Online

Small cabin plans - how do you find that special... Read More

Add Value to Your House - Interior Remodelling

Interior remodeling can have an amazing impact on the look... Read More

Planning Permission Tips UK - Conservatories - Dispelling a Myth

It's now well into the new year and the residential... Read More

Hardwood Floor Refinishing - For The Faint of Heart

Are your beautiful hardwood floors not so beautiful anymore? Maybe... Read More

Are Showers Harmful to Your Health?

The last thing you would think about when you are... Read More

Sparkling, Clean Lighting Will Add The Perfect Touch To Your Home

When one thinks of the many factors that affect the... Read More

Reuse Works for the Workshop

The workshop is a great place for reusing items formally... Read More

Scented Candles ? Take Me AWAY!

Remember the old Calgon commercial-"Take me away Calgon!" There's only... Read More

Apartment Inspection Checklist

You have found an apartment you like and you are... Read More

Conservatory Planning Permission in the UK

It is quite unusual in the UK for a new... Read More

What To Look For In USPS Mailboxes

High quality residential and commercial mailboxes are available in styles... Read More

Rustic Stone House Signs

You may own a remarkably constructed, attractive house that is... Read More

10 Quick Ways to Change Your Fire-less Fireplace from a Black Hole to a Worthy Focal Point

Everyone loves a fireplace aglow with a roaring fire or... Read More

The Joy Of A Patio Awning

Some people will dream of the perfect patio. They dream... Read More

The Wireless Home

It was only a few years ago that Real Estate... Read More

Guide to Bathroom Design

The first step is to plan the design ? as... Read More

Housing and Smart Houses; Energy Self Sufficient Possibilities

Housing and smart houses. I believe that we could have... Read More

Pre-Fabricated Steel Buildings

More and more construction is being done with steel in... Read More

Bathroom Remodeling Ideas

Bathroom remodeling is often a popular home improvement project for... Read More

Keeping Stone Floors in Tip Top Condition

I had a customer call me to make a complaint... Read More

Kitchen Remodeling Costs

It is important to prepare a budget for your kitchen... Read More

Conventional Steam Saunas vs. Infrared Saunas

The health benefits of steam saunas have been recognized for... Read More