Do-it-Yourself Log Home Kits

Types

• Log home kits come in two main types--the shell kit, which contains pre-cut logs for the walls, windows, doors and perhaps some roofing materials; and the complete kits with subflooring, floors, interior paneling, all necessary roofing materials, etc. Many variations exist on these two basic types, depending on what the company you purchase from offers, so make sure you know exactly what materials come with your kit.

Expense

• Purchasing a log home kit is usually more expensive than cutting down trees yourself or buying logs locally. However the price of kits can vary widely depending on the size of the home and the quality of materials used. According to J. Wayne Fears in his book, " How to Build Your Dream Cabin in the Woods: The Ultimate Guide to Building and Maintaining Your Backcountry Getaway," prices for log homes of 1,000 square feet and under can range between $4,800 and $28,500. Larger homes, of course, are more expensive. Fears also says that the total price of putting up a log home can be as much as twice the price of the kit itself. This includes such costs as site preparation, the foundation (if you do not build it yourself), additional materials to finish the cabin and the cost of shipping the kit to the building site.

Logs

• The individual logs from the kit will have numbers so you will know exactly where each log goes. They will also be pre-cut and notched. Before the logs arrive, have a covered area on the site so that they are protected from the weather. The notch used to join the logs is important. The notch is a potential weak point where moisture or insects can enter and cause damage. The notched areas may need chemical treatment to prevent this.

Foundation and Roof

• The kit will not come with a foundation so that is your responsibility. Different types of foundations, such as stone and mortar and pier and beam, are within the capabilities of a competent do-it-yourselfer, but check with your local building inspector to insure that your foundation will safely support the log cabin.

  Some kits come with all roofing materials supplied, some kits come with none, and many kits are in between. Though it is possible with the right equipment to put up the roof yourself, a better and safer idea might be to get some friends or family members to assist you.

Important Points

• Place your kit order at least six months before you plan to build, says Abigail R Gehring in her book "Back to Basics: A Complete Guide to Traditional Skills." If you plan to have utilities installed, do this before you build. You will likely need to do some additional caulking and chinking to fill in any gaps as the logs settle over time.