| Newcomers to the world of log homes will notice | | | | years. Log homes are similar except that, instead of |
| that log homes look different than conventional | | | | paint, they require a preservative stain combined with |
| "stick-built" homes. But are log homes really different, | | | | a treatment to prevent insect damage. As with any |
| other than in appearance? If so, how? | | | | home, log walls must be protected from excessive |
| Let's take a look at some of the ways in which log | | | | moisture. |
| homes differ from conventional homes. | | | | Utilities - Since many log homes are built in rural or |
| Log Walls - This is the main difference. Instead of | | | | mountain locations, some standard utility services |
| walls constructed of 2x4 or 2x6 framing lumber, | | | | may not available. Often, log homes use propane gas, |
| packed with insulation, covered on the outside with | | | | water wells/pumps, and septic waste systems. |
| with sheathing, moisture barrier, and siding, and on | | | | Cost - Log homes typically cost 10%-30% more than |
| the inside with sheetrock and paint, log homes simply | | | | a similar conventionally-built "spec" home primarily |
| have solid log walls. The logs act as their own thermal | | | | because most log homes are custom-built with unique |
| and weather barrier, as well as being the primary | | | | features. However, there are many ways in which |
| load-bearing structure in the house. | | | | costs can be eliminated or reduced. |
| Style - Although log homes can be built in practically | | | | Financing - Construction loans for log homes are |
| any style, most log home owners prefer the | | | | usually different that those for conventional homes, |
| traditional "cabin" or "lodge" style. This style is often | | | | primarily because log home "kit" providers want to be |
| distinguished by such features as wood flooring, | | | | paid up front, and getting comparable appraisals can |
| wood interior, stone fireplace and chimney, porch, | | | | be somewhat difficult. Therefore, some banks and |
| loft, rustic staircase, open floorplan, raised-seam | | | | mortgage companies don't like to finance log homes. |
| metal roof, cathedral ceilings, and exposed interior | | | | This may mean a little more legwork to find a |
| beams. | | | | cooperative bank or a mortgage company that |
| Maintenance - Conventional home exteriors typically | | | | specializes in log home loans. |
| need to be washed, repaired, and painted every few | | | | |