Building your dream home should be a fun, worry-free project that brings joy from start to finish. However, many prospective homeowners quickly become disheartened when they realize that the progress or end result isn’t quite how they imagined it. Not all log home builders work in the same way, so it’s critical to select a builder that you can trust will understand your vision and make it a reality.
To prevent experiencing a crushing disappointment, prospective homeowners should take the time to research log home builders in their area to establish the right partnership for the project. Going through and endless list of log home builders in the yellow pages or online can be time-consuming and overwhelming. To get started on the right track, read through this checklist of things to consider when choosing log home builders.
Checklist for Choosing Log Home Builders
1. Research builders who have experience in log cabin structures.
Unlike manufactured home contractors, log home builders understand that there are many aspects of building a log cabin that are unique. This type of construction is different from other home projects in many ways. For that reason, it is best to choose a specialist—a qualified group of professionals who qualify as certified log home builders.
2. Choose a wood source.
When it comes to the type of materials that will make up your home, you may already have an idea in mind as to what you want to use. Selecting a specific wood source can be a critical component of determining which log home builders are experienced and capable of working with that particular type of wood. Whether you’ve got your heart set on oak, pine, or something else, choosing a wood source will essentially rule out some log home builders on the list.
3. Select a builder who can source the materials.
When contacting log home builders to discuss the project, it is very important to determine if they are capable of sourcing the materials you have chosen for the log cabin. Depending on the region, expenses, and transportation elements, some log home builders may not be equipped to accommodate the details of your project. Find out upfront if the log home builders on your list are capable of sourcing the materials needed for the job.
4. Consider floor plan challenges and discuss these issues with the builder.
Log home builders are used to working with challenging landscapes and complex architectural features. However, they still need a thorough briefing to know if they’re comfortable constructing all the intricacies of the floorplan. Some builders may not be familiar with certain wood finishing techniques or balcony scopes, so it’s best to go over the floor plan with a prospective builders first.
5. Discuss pest control options with the selected builder.
When you’re working with real wood materials, it’s absolutely vital to have a thorough pest control plan in place—even during the construction process. Insect damage and rodent burrowing between wood planks can cause serious damage in the long run. Find out which log home builders have pest control procedures before hiring them for the job.
6. Discuss water-damage treatments with the selected builder.
Like insects and rodents, water can also be a great threat to wood beams and siding. Log home builders should be able to explain their water-resistance treatments or provide you with adequate resources before damage occurs.
7. Discuss paint and stain options with the builder.
Finishing touches, like paint palettes and staining options, often cause headaches towards the end of a building project when they haven’t been discussed in advance with the builder. If you have a particular color of paint or wood stain in mind, you need to ensure that log home builders on your list have access to these options. If not, find out what they do offer, and make sure there are multiple options that you like before hiring them for the contract.
An Easier Approach: Steel Log Siding
This checklist is just the tip of the iceberg when you’re researching log home builders who are fit for the task! However, if you’re already feeling a bit bogged down with the checklist, you may want to consider an alternative option which can eliminate a lot of the questions stated above.
Steel log siding is an innovative building option that truly simplifies matters for log home builders. While working with wood carries a lot of concerns, including pest control, painting demands, and wood sourcing challenges, steel log siding essentially removes these worries by providing a straightforward building material with greatly enhanced durability.
In fact, more builders have the ability to work with steel, so you’ll have a greater selection of experts. In addition, steel log siding is much more eco-friendly and sustainable than traditional wood, so you can enjoy the charming look of wood while reducing your carbon footprint.
For many individuals, steel log siding is an excellent option that makes the task of choosing log home builders much easier.
