Log cabin windows are an important part of your exterior. They let light in, can help with ambient internal temperatures, and they help complete the facade and curb appeal of a property. Windows look and act a little differently with this type of facade than they do with a traditional lap siding. Things like trim, shape, and size of the windows may be impacted by the logs or the log-look siding, which is why youโll want to pay special attention to the style, design, and placement of your windows.
Design Considerations for Log Cabin Windows
In a home with horizontal lap siding, windows are generally framed out by a type of trim that matches the rest of the homeโs siding. The trim goes over the window frame, helping the window blend in with the rest of the siding. In some exteriors, itโs also common to further frame out the windows by adding decorative exterior shutters on either side. The windows themselves become not only part of the design, but are an emphasized part of the design as well.
With log cabins, the windowโs frame itself is generally visible, rather than concealed or partially concealed by trim. And while itโs possible to install shutters around the window, itโs not generally done with this style of home.
This means that the window itself tends to have a very different look than the same window might on a home with lap siding. The windowโs frame is now part of the design, so the color and the material of the frame can also come into consideration. If the window frame can be painted, then the color of the frame can become part of the facade, while aluminum or vinyl frames may need to be selected by the color of the frame to make sure that it coordinates well with the log siding.
At the same time, because the windows wonโt have as much attention drawn to them, you may want to pay special consideration to their size. The same size window may appear to be smaller on a log home than on a traditionally-sided home, which can have the effect of making the house appear out of proportion. For that reason, itโs more common to see larger windows or more windows on a log home than you would on a home of similar proportion that has been clad in traditional siding.
5 Log Cabin Window Design Ideas
Like any home, a log cabin can be complemented by many different styles and types of windows and like other homes, the windows can play a big role in the homeโs curb appeal and overall appearance. These 5 design ideas can give you inspiration for how to complete your exterior:
1. Simple Contrast
Sometimes the most simple designs are also the most effective. This is a simple, one-story log cabin, so more elaborate window designs would likely overwhelm the facade. These windows are simple, with a clean white frame that contrasts the log-look siding. They stand out well without contrasting the style of the home, and the width helps to accentuate the shape and direction of the logs.
2. Varying Shapes and Sizes
This log home has a lot more going on in terms of size, shape, and style. It has multiple roof angles and is made up of a few different buildings. It makes sense that the windows can also have more going on. In this case, there are windows with sharp angles and windows with arches at the top, as well as classic, multi-paned windows. They all have a frame thatโs been painted the same color as the trim to create a unified look.
3. Window Rows
This home features two sections of windows, one that acts as a set of sliding doors onto the deck and the other just above. This makes sense for the shape of the property as well as for function. The pitch of the roof narrows as it rises, and the second row of windows helps to fill the space while also emphasizing the shape of the roof and the pitch.
4. Complementary Shapes
This property also features windows with varying shapes. In this case, the windows are following the lines of the homeโs edges. This creates a unique transition from the log-look siding to the windows, and helps emphasize the propertyโs shape. The windows follow the roof line as well as the sides of the home, letting in light while also enhancing its appearance.
5. Prominent Windows
Some homes look their best when they have a focal point or accent that focuses the gaze. Consider bay window ideas for the living room. This home has a large wall of windows that is made up of two different sections meeting in the middle at a slight angle. The windows follow the pitch and line of the roof as they go up, accenting it. The window frames have a similar color to the roof, creating a unified and cohesive look.
Complete Your Facade with Log Cabin Windows
Log look siding from TruLog works particularly well with window frames, creating a tight, even seal and an appearance that will enhance your exterior. Unlike real log siding, which would cause the windows to sit unevenly in the walls, TruLog creates an even appearance for a cleaner look.
Get the right appearance for your log home by using windows to complement the style, and TruLog siding to get the best look for your facade.