Log homes offer a combination of grandeur and tranquility that few other home types can match. However, they present unique challenges that need to be addressed by design professionals.
One of those challenges is the occurrence of lengthwise cracks or checks. These are natural and can occur when logs are kiln-dried to their equilibrium moisture content before construction.
Architect
Log homes differ from traditional wood-framed houses because the structural system requires more careful design and construction. An architect familiar with the nuances of log home design can help you plan for the unique challenges of this type of building.
Many log-home producers and handcrafters have a designer on staff or will offer stock plans that you can modify to suit your tastes. A good plans book will show you various attractive, efficient homes using that company’s building system. Moreover, it will make it easy to see how your modifications will affect the look and layout of your home.
Plumbing has to be planned carefully; fixtures should celebrate the log structure rather than clash with it. A designer who understands these differences can save you a lot of headaches and expenses.
Engineer
Log home design experts can explain and help you understand the engineering of a log house. It is essential because today’s log homes are designed using various building systems that combine specific crafting, fastening, and weatherproofing techniques. To understand more about log house cabin engineering, visit https://frontierloghomes.com/.
These building systems can vary by manufacturer and should be examined carefully. For example, some manufacturers have developed pre-cut building components in a factory and reassembled them on-site. This process eliminates many handcrafting elements of traditional log home construction, resulting in a lower price than conventional stick-built houses.
However, this system also requires a different approach to calculating roof loads and the amount of log shrinkage that will take place. If not adequately accounted for, shrinkage can lead to window cracking and doors that won’t close properly.
Interior Designer
Log homes have a majestic appeal that’s hard to match. From quaint vacation cabins to multi-million dollar properties, this type of home combines grandeur and a rustic feel that appeals to many homeowners.
Log home designers work to help integrate all the modern comforts into the log home element. It may include coordinating tile flooring with the floor covering, helping to choose appliances that work best with the log home, planning for lighting fixtures, and ensuring that doors and windows line up nicely.
An interior designer should be part of the design process early on in construction to help avoid mistakes that could be costly later on. For example, anticipating wood shrinkage will save a homeowner from replacing interior walls or paying for an expensive adjustment after the logs settle.
Landscape Designer
A landscape designer is an integral part of the log home design team. They will be able to identify plants, terrain, and design hazards that may be relevant to the project.
They will work closely with the homeowner helping them make interior and exterior decisions. It includes everything from plumbing and lighting fixtures to flooring options, door knob choices, window covering options, and more. They will be able to quickly hone in on products, solutions, and budgets that are aligned with the homeowner’s vision.
Log homes, mansions, or cabins have an appeal that is hard to deny. They are mesmerizing in their detail and craftsmanship.
Interior Decorator
Log homes can be challenging to decorate. It can be overwhelming for homeowners with so many log choices, color options, and textures. A designer helps them focus on products, solutions, and budgets aligned with their vision.
Full scribe log homes are beautiful on the inside and outside. However, they are usually more expensive to build than a conventional property. They require additional maintenance, such as chinking and staining. In addition, they experience settling that is caused by wood shrinkage.
A log home design professional will collaborate with you to construct the home you dreamt about, no matter where you live.
