Uses For Log Cabins

By Author: Dyani Ruth
Total Articles: 2
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As structures go, log cabins provide a diverse range of uses, and the flexibility of the building methods and types of construction available mean that they come in all shapes and sizes.

The type of log cabin supplied will often depend upon the use and requirements for longevity. The obvious main difference between the largest structures and the log cabin summer houses is the thickness and form of the wood. With houses, the wood tends to be supplied as virtually whole tree trunks, shaped and treated so that they are suitable for construction and easy to maintain. These are the 'picture book' type log cabins that you would generally see and associate with pictures n Christmas cards, and as hotels in cold climates. Their look and feel is very traditional, as this structure type has been around for centuries, although refined in recent decades into the modern structures now found.

However, there is a new kid on the block for the larger log cabins; being laminated log cabins. These look more modern in their style, as the exterior and interior walls are flat. The technique ...
... involves the gluing together of (relatively) thin lengths of kiln dried wood (at the factory!), which are layered against the grain to provide exceptionally good material for building. The lengths of individual elements can be greater, as you are not limited to a tree trunk, and this can allow for more open spaces. There is generally less settling and construction of the building can be easier, as there should be less distortion than with a standard log due to the layering and drying process. The drawback in this technique is that it is a more expensive unit.

Now, although you can use both of these types for smaller log cabins, such as summer houses, there comes a point at which it is more economical to go for flat log cabins, which are simply shaped planks of wood, which interlock at the corners, at junctions and fit together in layers along grooves in the planks edge. Generally these are much thinner, starting at around 28mm thick, but ranging up to 90mm and even double skinned.

These are ideal as offices, play rooms, games rooms, gyms, pool houses and can even be used as granny annexes provided they are thick enough and have correct insulation to confirm with building regulations. As such, they provide a useful addition to the DIY option of putting together a log cabin.

They are relatively easily put together by someone with limited DIY knowledge and due to the smaller nature of the individual elements, can be much easier to handle, depending upon the thickness and length of the elements supplied. Bear in mind though, that you will need someone to help with the roof, for ladder work and services, if you want electricity, heating, plumbing etc. If you plan on using a log cabin as a dwelling, you will also need planning permission.

Make sure you get advice before buying a cabin - don't just assume that:
a) You will be able to build it yourself and
b) That you can build it yourself, or
c) That you are allowed to build it!
Also, make sure you ask the supplying company whether the structure you choose is the correct type for the job you require.