Log Home vs. Traditional Home: Which is Right for You?
Are you interested in learning about how log homes compare to traditionally constructed homes? Log homes are built using log or timber products while conventional homes are typically constructed with 2×4 or 2×6 framing, plywood, and brick, stucco, or vinyl siding. There are pros and cons to both log homes and traditional homes.
Durability – Both a well-constructed log home or traditional home have great durability and can last for years to come. The durability of each home increases with maintenance and the type of wood and supplies used. In log homes for instance, some wood types have lower durability such as Pine versus Cedar or Douglas Fir. Be sure to discuss the type of materials used in your new construction project with your contractor to help increase the longevity of your home.
Cost to Build – The cost of any home whether you buy or build is dictated generally by a budget. Homes vary in size, shape, material and expense. A home can be built in an affordable manner or can be as expensive as you want it to be, no matter if it is a log or conventional home. However, in most situations, log homes are more expensive to build than traditional homes. The cost to build a home can be impacted by the size of the house, the type of material used throughout the house and the “bells and whistles” that put your stamp on the house layout and unique features. A well built house or a quality construction also comes at a cost. This would be one consideration that a home owner should not take lightly. A high quality built house has less immediate repairs, leaks, and other unwanted issues than a house that is built quickly with less attention to all the details and craftsmanship of each construction phase.
Energy Efficiency – In the construction of either a log home or a traditional built home, you will want to consider the energy efficiency of your materials and even the location of your home on your property. There are three different levels of energy efficiency and building to the highest level will be different for each house type. This may impact your decisions on deciding to build a log home or traditional home.
Location – Where are you choosing to build your home? If you are building a neighborhood of new homes, a log home may not be the best option. If the surrounding homes are log homes or if you are building in a rural location, a log home may be the right choice.
Purpose of Home – What will you be using your home for? If you are looking to build your forever dream home that you will live in for the rest of your life and you love the rustic cozy feel of a log home, then you should build a log home. If you are going to build a home that you will sell a few years down the road, a traditional home may be a better bet. Log homes also make great vacation homes.
Maintenance – Every home needs to be maintained, no matter what type of home it is. However, the type of maintenance you will have to do will vary depending on which kind of home you choose. Log home exteriors will need to be cleaned and stained on a regular basis as well as checked for mold and pests.
Appearance – Log homes and conventional homes vary greatly in appearance. When choosing between the two, you will have to know what you prefer in terms of style. Log homes are typically more rustic in style. Common features include screened in porches, fireplaces, or great rooms. Conventional homes give you a little more flexibility on the style, appearance, and interior design of the home.
North Twin Builders Constructs Custom Log and Timber Frame Homes
North Twin Builders designs and builds custom log and timber frame homes in Northern Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. We build true timber frame homes with large timbers that are found on both the interior and exterior of the home. For a more economical option, we also build conventional log homes that feature log exteriors with more economical kinds of woods in the home interior like basswood, poplar, and aspen. North Twin Builders is a custom home builder that can design and build the house of your dreams. Contact us today to learn more
