American homeowners took a liking to log cabin homes starting in the 1600s due to their aesthetics and encouragement of a simple, quiet way of life. Cabin living isn’t always easy, as this type of home is unique in design, construction, and maintenance. One of the biggest appeals of log home living is that no two homes are the same. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at log homes.
Log Profile Styles
The timbers cut for log home construction can be shaped into several profile styles. Timbers are stacked horizontally to form walls and are affixed by spikes, nails, or fasteners. Logs can also be cut into a tongue and groove style.
The square and rectangular log styles feature logs cut with four square corners that are uniform in width and height, or rectangular. The round log style features circular logs with no angles or corners that use thru-bolts for support. Logs are circular on each end but have a flat top and bottom.
The D-log style features logs cut with one round side and one flat side to produce a log wall that has one flat surface and one rounded edge. The handcrafted style features timbers that are debarked by hand to retain their natural shape. Handcrafted homes are constructed so that each log is precisely positioned for maximum stability and a rustic look.
You can find the log home of your dreams with the help of Ashe High County. The log home company offers the finest selection of log homes for sale in a variety of natural settings in North Carolina. Each of their log cabin homes has a unique architectural style with inviting features like stone fireplaces, open floor plans, spacious great rooms, and hardwood decks. You can search for custom log homes based on price, acreage, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and the square footage.
Corner Styles
Just like there are several timber styles to choose from, there are also several corner styles to choose from. With interlocking corners, wood is cut from the four sides of a log to recess an area that locks into the intersecting log and holds both firmly in place in all directions.
With the dovetail corner style, the ends of the logs are cut to create a fan-shaped wedge, so when the logs are stacked, the ends of one wall’s logs lock into the perpendicular logs. The butt-and-pass style features one log that stops when it meets a perpendicular log and extends past the corner of the house.
Once you decide on the log profile and corner styles, it’s time to consider what type of roof will add the most eye appeal to your custom log home. Asphalt shingles are a traditional roofing material prone to leaks, cracks, flashing issues, and storm damage. A more durable alternative that adds curb appeal and lasts, in the long run, is metal roofing.
Metal roof installation is growing in popularity thanks to its incredible durability, eye appeal, wind and fire resistance, increased energy efficiency, and low weight. The skilled roofers at Legacy Remodeling have years of experience providing homeowners with reliable roof installation using high-quality roofing materials. The roofing contractor is known for competitive pricing, outstanding customer service, and quality craftsmanship.
Electricity and Wiring
Many log homeowners experience intense warmth in the summer and freezing temperatures in the winter, which can quickly put a dent in energy bills. This often results from improper construction that leaves gaps in the logs that can’t be insulated. It’s important to determine what type of wood is best for retaining heat when choosing building materials. Filling gaps with an elastic sealant or chinking ensures your home maintains a comfortable temperature.
Electrical wiring can also be tricky, as the size of the logs to be drilled through makes planning key, and there’s no room for last-minute changes. It’s a good idea to have a professional electrician handle the drilling, running wires, and placing of outlets and light switches.
Log homes are worth the investment if you take the time to ensure yours is crafted with the highest quality.