If you are looking to build a log home, you can either do it yourself using log home kits or hire a builder. The option you choose will depend on your budget, skill and the time you have to invest in building your dream home.
Log homes have an irresistible rustic appeal with many versatile benefits for homeowners. These homes can be a legacy asset to pass down to future generations. A log home can be more energy-efficient than a traditional home. Building your own log home gives you the freedom to live anywhere you choose. There are many styles to choose from in order to create a unique look to reflect your family’s lifestyle.
Before you build, either way, there are a few factors you will need to consider. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of both options to help you decide which one is best for you.
DIY Log Home Kits
Using log home kits to build your own log home can be both challenging and rewarding. It can be ideal if you have the skills and time required. . If you have a busy schedule or numerous family obligations, you might not meet your completion deadline. Doing it yourself means you may have to sacrifice many evenings and weekends and vacation time to complete the project.
Building materials that are on-site for months can become damaged from being exposed to the elements. The materials need to be stored where they will be dry and out of direct sunlight. If you don’t have a proper means of storage to maintain quality of finish materials such as trim and tongue & groove, consult with your log home kit provider to arrange a subsequent delivery closer to the installation date.
Log home kits are affordable and easy to design. There are a variety of styles you can mix and match for a customized look. . You will still need to judge how comfortable you are with the building process or hire a builder to do the work for you.
Before undertaking a DIY build be confident in your ability to build a “normal” home, including the ability to understand blueprints. If you are not fully confident, have access to an experienced builder. Sierra Log & Timber communicates with all builders throughout the entire construction process, no matter how long it takes. Whenever reasonably possible, they offer on-site consultation to owner-builders or builders who have not built using the products from Sierra Log & Timber.
Some homes are easier to build than others. The design of your log home can significantly influence the level of difficulty to construct it. Decks, porches, garages and trusses can add to the difficulty. Complex roof systems can be quite challenging to construct. Topography at the building site can also make the job more difficult. The size and shape of logs used can also make a difference in the tools and equipment needed. Make sure you have the required equipment to safely and efficiently build your home.
Hiring a Log Home Builder
While building a log home yourself will cost you less, in most cases, a builder can accomplish the task faster. A builder can obtain materials at a contractor’s price which could reduce your materials cost. Some builders also have land available. A builder has knowledge and experience to avoid the costly mistakes you may make with assembling log home kits yourself. You may be able to save money by doing minor tasks yourself while leaving the tough work for the builder.
If you choose to hire a builder for your log home, make sure to do your research first. Request and check references from previous clients and ask to see a portfolio of previous work. Make sure the builder is licensed and insured where you live. Find out if they provide a manufacturer warranty on parts and if they offer a warranty on their labor. You may want to get more than one estimate from local builders to compare costs.
Be aware that job estimating is a necessary evil for builders in order to arrange their next job, so when you request an estimate know as much as you can about your log home and finish materials to help expedite the estimating process, or you might never get the desired estimate. Determine if the builder’s availability matches with your desired building schedule.
Create Your Custom Log Home Design
Whether to build a log home yourself or hire a builder depends on your time, skill level, home design, log profile selection and household budget. Sierra Log & Timber can help you build the custom log home you’ve dreamed of owning. You may design your log home with our designers’ help or hire an architect to help you design your dream home. Sierra Log & Timber designers have been designing beautiful log homes for customers across the country for over 25 years. Request more information on available log home kits and packages.
