Log Home Plans: When to Build with Solid Log/Timber Gables or Framed/Sided
The overall structure of your dream home is a major decision when creating your building plans. There are a few options you can choose from with different advantages and disadvantages. Your log home is a significant investment, so it is crucial to make an informed decision. Here is everything you need to know on determining when to build with solid log/timber gables or framed/sided for your log home plans.
Solid Log/Timber Gables
Solid wood or timber gables are one of the most popular choices for log home plans. These natural structures provide better thermal and fire-resistant properties than traditionally framed cavity walls. Solid wood and timber both require the same maintenance to protect from outdoor elements. There is flexibility in designing your home with different types of designs for gables. With the sloped design of these structures, you can minimize the risk of water damage from rain and snow.
An experienced log cabin home builder must properly install these structures. With proper materials and support, these assemblies can last for many years. If you live in an area prone to hurricanes or tornadoes, solid log/timber gables may not be a good option due to vulnerability to damage from strong winds. When using timber materials for your log home, you may want to have it painted to help keep it in good condition over time. The building material can be prone to insect infestation and warping or cracking without regular maintenance.
Posted Log/Timber
If you are looking for structural durability and an environmentally friendly impact, posted log/timber can be an excellent alternative. Posted log/timber allows for constructing high vaulted ceilings and large open spaces in log home plans. These structures also provide excellent fire-resistant properties. Since these structures have no load-bearing walls, it creates better flexibility to place doors, walls and windows. Any building material can be used with posted log/timber for interior finish work.
It can be more expensive to build with posted log/timber as the logs are heavier. Building with posted log/timber may require the use of heavy cranes and other specialized equipment. The wood requires specialized expertise from contractors to place it precisely during construction. Exterior posts and beams are susceptible to rotting and pest infestation from exposure to the elements. If you consider posted log/timber in your log home plans, you may want to seek advice from professionals on solutions for these issues.
Framed/Sided
Framed/sided log homes have a more lightweight design than traditional cavity construction. These structures can be faster and less expensive to build than other log cabin home options. Timber and wood frames can be more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient than other building materials. However, these structures can be more prone to rot, water damage and insect infestation.
Since the wood is less dense, sound transmission can be a problem without adding extra insulation. If you add extra insulation to the cavities in timber frames, you may have issues obtaining mortgage lending on your log home. Lenders may not want to take the risk because the extra insulation may exceed the building codes for the property. If your log home is in a busier area, you may want to choose solid or posted wood logs or timber.
Expert Building and Design Advice for Log Home Plans
If you are considering building a custom log home, it can be helpful to consult with a professional to avoid costly mistakes. Sierra Log & Timber are experts at custom designs for log home plans. Designers can provide recommendations on building materials and structural elements to help you build the home of your dreams. With over 25 years of experience serving customers nationwide, you can trust Sierra Log & Timber for your design needs. Schedule your design consultation today.
