Although log homes have been around for several centuries, today they are becoming more and more popular, and for good reason. Log cabins and structures have been used around the world dating back thousands of years and they have a long history across the world and in the United States as well. While the log homes of today are a far cry from the early log structures, they still have that same rustic look and appeal, not to mention the durability and sturdiness that has made these structures stay around for so long. Let's take a look at a bit of history, modern day log homes, the cost of these homes, and some of the benefits and features of log houses.
History of Log Homes
You may think that log cabins only date back a few generations to the early Americans, but you'll actually find that during the Bronze Age they were first build in the north Europe area. Later on when people from Europe would begin to come to the Americas to settle, they would bring with them the concept of the log cabin. Traditional log cabins were originally build in early North America with logs that were laid down horizontally and then made with simple notches that interlocked to keep the cabin sound structurally. Early log homes were build on large rocks to keep them off the ground. Over time these log cabins would emerge into the log homes that we are so familiar with today.
Understanding the Modern Day Log Home
Today the modern day log homes are a far cry from the primitive log cabins of years gone by. They come in a variety of different designs, they are built on regular foundations, and have many amenities as well. While at one time the log homes were homes for the lower class, today the log homes have a certain distinction and are not as easily affordable as they used to be. Usually today's modern versions of log homes are build from logs that have been milled. In many rural areas you'll find that these log homes are very popular and various resort communities have these homes, many of which measure more than 3,000 square feet.
The Cost of a Log Home
Of course you may be wondering what the cost of a log home is today. Well, that definitely will depend on the size of the home that you end up buying and whether you have it built or purchase it already built. Usually if you are having the log home built, a log home that is about 2,000 square feet will cost between 0,000 and 0,000 to build, although some may cost more. If you purchase log homes that have already been built, then you can expect to pay even more for them, since you'll have to take into account the land price and the markup on the home as well. So, it's easy to see that these log homes are definitely not the cheapest home to build or buy today.
Benefits and Features of Log Homes
Although you won't find that log houses are a cheaper method of housing, you will definitely find that log cabins homes do come with a variety of great benefits and features that make them well worth the prices that they command. Here are a few of those great benefits.
- Built to High Standards - First of all, when you are looking at the benefits of a log home, you'll find that they are built to higher standards than many other hands. They have great craftsmanship and come with many great touches as well. Usually they end up being worth more than conventional homes of the same size, which gives them a better resale value later one.
- Sturdy and Long Lasting - You'll also find that log houses are very sturdy and long lasting. They are built to last a long time, even in the elements and are very sturdy. Log homes are so long lasting that there are actually log homes around the world that are more than 800 years old.
- Energy Efficient - As long as a log house is sealed and built as it should be, you'll find that these homes are very energy efficient as well. When you purchase one of these homes, you'll get a warm and dry home that will save you money on cooling and heating.
- Quiet - These homes also have the benefits of being very quiet. Logs are very solid and dense and it helps to deaden the noise from the outside, making it a very quiet place to be, which is wonderful if you enjoy peace and tranquility.
- Easy to Maintain - Although there are various maintenance options that come with a log home, you will find that they are fairly easy to maintain. It's fairly easy to keep an eye on your home and you can usually find possible problems early before they become an expensive problem.
- Great for the Environment - Log houses are also great for the environment. They are made from renewable resources, so they are eco-friendly as well, which is important to many people.
As you can see, there are a variety of great benefits and features that log cabins have today. Although there are a few cons to owning your own log home, you'll find that there are more pros than cons and purchasing a log home is an excellent idea.
