The roof is often an afterthought to the design of any log cabin. However, the roof can dramatically affect both your curb appeal and interior space. Choosing the right roof for your log home is essential to the overall log home.
Roof Style
One of the most common characteristics of a log cabin is the pitched roof. The pitch of your roof may vary a little due to what climate you live in. For example, snowy climates require more angle on the roof, so winter weather doesn’t accumulate on top. The pitch also affects the rooms underneath, with a higher pitch leading to more ceiling height typically. Pitch is a significant consideration for your home and should be calculated early in the process.
The other consideration with roof style is a general silhouette. Your log home may need dormers and hips to get the ceiling height you want in all rooms. This means you’ll have to consider how the roof will look on your log home when you’re considering floor plans. After all, you want a log home, not a modern craftsman style.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are one of your most widely available options currently for roofing materials on your log cabin. They’re cost-effective, fire retardant, and come in a variety of styles. Relatively speaking, they’re also easy for you to install. However, you may have to replace them more often depending on your climate conditions.
Wood Shingles and Shakes
You’ll find wood shingles use a variety of naturally water-resistant woods. These woods are typically pressure treated for fire retardancy, enhancing the safety of your log cabin. You may find these options fit the aesthetic best since they continue the wood throughout your log home. However, shingles and shakes require knowledge to install. Otherwise, they are liable to leak.
Tiles
Roofing tiles, whether terracotta, clay, or concrete, are an extremely durable option for your log cabin roof. They do not decay, are energy efficient, and are minimal maintenance. The downside is that they’re heavy, requiring added support built into your log home roof. Roofing tiles are also among the more expensive options available for your project.
Metal Options
Metal shingles are an alternative to wood and tile. These can be manufactured to fit the aesthetic of your log cabin, including your chosen color palette. The cost is typically comparable or cheaper than a similar natural material. They’re easy to install, and depending on your climate, may last longer than wood or asphalt shingles.
Sheet metal is another possibility. You can get sheets in a variety of colors, and like metal shingles, it’s easy to install. This is also a relatively lightweight option for your log home. The relative downside is the noise. Rain and hail will both produce a drumming sound inside your home if you choose this roofing type. You may find this hard to live within your log home. Regardless of what you pick, you should definitely consider your roof early.
