Log homes and cabins have long been hailed as an early American settler staple. Coming from as far back as 3500 BC, these building types have persevered through the course of time and its basic form was imported overseas for its ease of build as well as the suitability of the readily available woods and easy insulation. While log homes were seeing the start of popularity in America in the early 1600s today’s log homes are usually built with milled logs and represents a higher degree of sustainability and are considered to be leading the green building movement that is catching speed.
Going Green
Nestled in nature while not detracting away from the beauty of the outside world. That is what a log home does for the environment that surrounds it. Seclusion and a certain hint of rustic come to mind when thinking of a log cabin, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t downsize your footprint. Logs can act as a battery for thermal energy and in some cases can store heat during the day and make sure the nights don’t get too cold. Studies have shown that a solid wood log home can save almost fifty percent of heating costs and almost twenty-five percent in cooling costs compared to traditionally built homes.
Modernizing Log Homes
Just because it’s a log home on the outside doesn’t mean you can’t have luxury and modern living on the inside. Between lofts, beautiful sunlit rooms, and large footprints, log homes are a great way to live. Making old modern may owners may choose to replace their wood burning fireplace with an electric one, as well as updating the windows with thicker glass. One of the quintessential items in a log home is a stone fireplace mantel for cozying up to after a long day outside enjoying nature. Showing off those beautiful logs inside and out is almost mandatory or at least glimpses of it here and there.
Seclusion and Peace
A large number of log homes are located on larger acreage plots, and many in Virginia specifically have magnificent views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Quality time spent in nature and in the peace, it offers you can’t have a price tag put on it. Log homes offer a look into the past, but the insides offer can offer a modern feel in this hectic world. From inside to out, nature to the city, log homes are a great way to get back into a more natural world without having to sacrifice modern amenities.
Want to buy or build a log home?
Do your research!
- Review the type of land you want and whether a log home is a good fit
- Research the type of wood that the building is built with or the materials your builders have to offer
- Remember, different wood types have different energy scores as well as moisture tolerances
- Go Green! – as much as reasonability possible, it’s a fun way to help contribute back to nature.
Always remember that this is your home and dream don’t make too many allowances but enjoy the log home for what it is and what significance it has in history.
