Wood or log cabins can have various different uses that it can be hard to decide what type you need. It's amazing to see just how useful these small home extensions are. It could be hard to choose a specific cabin for you since there are so many different styles and designs to choose from.
The first step when choosing a wooden cabin is determining the size requirements. There are prefabricated designs that specify size but you can also choose one to be constructed with the size specifications you want. Make sure to measure your lot or the yard which you plan to put the cabin in.
The next step involves choosing the ideal type of wood that could withstand wear and tear. Make an informed decision about the wood you plan on using for your cabin. Among the top choices are cedar, redwood and pine.
The western red cedar and Alaskan cedar are prime examples of timber that are resistant to natural decay and insect activity. Cedar can withstand prolonged exposure and you don't need to paint or stain it, however, expect a bit of color-loss after a time of sun exposure unless you choose to stain it. The old growth of heartwood is actually more visually pleasing since it can age particularly well.
Pine is perfect for outdoor structures, summerhouses garden sheds, log cabins and many more but remember to paint or stain the wood before exposing it to the elements. If you take southern pine for example, the wood can last for more than a century when properly pressure treated. Pine needs to be properly treated to be a good choice for buildings, so make sure to use pine that is certified by an organization that specializes in wood preservation.
Redwood is another type of wood you should consider since it is similar to cedar and it's resistant to rotting and insect activity. Furthermore, it will not split or warp like other woods once exposed to moisture. Similar to cedar, only the heartwood of redwood is resistant to insects and rot, and this wood comes in a broad selection of grades so be watchful on what you are buying.
For example Heart B is a pure clear grade that checks the number of knots for every board. Knots provide visual interest and many interior designers prefer this type of wood. Redwood can do without staining but it's a choice you can make if you want to preserve its original color.
Check the conditions of the area where the foundations of the cabin are to be placed in. Cabins or sheds simply used for storage purposes can be built on concrete footings, but larger, heavier cabins are best placed on a concrete slab. Make sure that you have leveled the foundations so that incidences of buckling and shifting structural supports would be avoided.
The final major decision is about choosing the people who would build the structure you want. It might be that you are the type who loves to spend time trying to arrange the bits and pieces from scratch. Perhaps you have helpful relatives and friends that could help you with your construction project but know the limitations posed by working with amateurs.
The most advisable option is to enlist the service of trained professionals when building log cabins. You can look at shed suppliers who offer assembly services to their clients. They are the best people for the job since they have the tools and equipment that are customized for structural assembly.
