Design Basics - Log Homes Are Not Just for Daniel Boone Anymore

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home > Articles > Design Trends > Log Homes Are Not Just for Daniel Boone Anymore

Photo courtesy of Lincoln Logs

They're Not Just for Daniel Boone Anymore

It's probably safe to say that most of us reading this article grew up with an image of log homes as the rustic places where we sometimes stayed on family vacations, or Daniel Boone's cabin on TV. At the time, that image was pretty accurate, but in the late 1970's things started to change with the beginning of a revival of log homes as actual homes.

Today, the log home industry captures 7% of the upscale custom home market nationwide (approximately 25,000 homes a year, averaging 2,500 - 3,500 square feet).

So who are the buyers of log homes? Typically, they are 45 -

Design 7150-33A-01, The Van Buren

60 year old couple building their "final" home where they will spend their retirement years. They are attracted to log homes because of their sense of quality - due to the beauty and innate strength of natural wood.

But the primary reason for the growing popularity of log homes is the relaxed lifestyle they represent. Says one satisfied homeowner, "Whenever I walk into my house, I exhale. It's a place to escape after a high-pressure day; like taking a little vacation every time I come Home."

Professional Advise
Design Basics talked with Jeff LaPell, Chief Operating Officer for Lincoln Logs, about things to consider before getting started.

"Because log homes are usually built in rural settings, the availability and cost of utilities should be determined early on," says LaPell. "It is generally best to purchase land before selecting a home design. Having your site first will influence the size and shape of, the home and will also allow you to choose a home design that takes the best advantage of an existing view."

"Particularly if it is your first log home continues, "it is important to choose a manufacturer

Design 7151-33A-01, The Polk

who offers adequate builder education programs as well as technical support during the construction process. To help ensure long-lasting good will between builder and buyer, it's also wise to select a well-established manufacturer with a good reputation - one that will be available if any concerns should arise in years to come."

When asked about the time frame for construction, LaPell says it is comparable to conventionally framed homes, averaging 3 - 4 months from the time ground is broken.

Surprisingly, most log homes do not require the use of cranes or special heavy equipment during construction. "For example", says LaPell, Lincoln Logs generally uses 7" by 8" logs, which can be handled by 2 people in lengths up to16 feet."

Choices, Choices, Choices
What is included varies in different packages. Commonly, the package primarily consists of the outside shell: exterior walls, windows, doors and the second floor system (most builders

Design 7152-33A-01, The Fillmore

have the first floor system in place when the package arrives). Roof packages may be provided or builders may choose to purchase roofing materials locally.

There are multiple choices regarding the logs themselves: round or square with corners that overlap, interlock or intersect. Lincoln Logs also offers a traditional look, with solid timbers milled to resemble clapboard as well as super-insulated solid wall panels.

Inside, exterior walls (usually done in a natural finish or bleached or pickled) are often combined with sheet rocked interior walls or ceilings to create variety. Decorating is often kept understated to keep the focus on the wood's natural beauty.

Clearly, modern technology has made everything about building a log home easier - except for making the decisions presented by an unlimited array of choices. If you're interested in learning more about log home construction, consider attending home shows or a log manufacturer's seminar.

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