Where To Buy Logs For Log Cabin?
You may have been wondering exactly where the best place to buy logs for a log home or cabin is? I took my time to find just the right materials to build a log home on my property in Northern Idaho. Read ahead to know exactly what I learned.
You may want to begin looking for logs for your cabin right away. Before you know exactly where to get it from, you may want to narrow down the right kind of wood for your cabin. This will also let you pick the right place to get it from.
So, where to buy logs for log cabin? The best place if you can get access is directly from a sawmill. Not only is this as close to the original source as you’re likely to get, but you can secure some fantastic dicounts.
Types of Wood That You Can Use to Build Your Cabin
While picking logs for your log home, the wood can make all the difference. The right type of wood will give you just the sturdiness, heat preservation, and aesthetic you are going for. We have outlined a few options for you.
Eastern White Pine
This is a popular log that is very pleasing to the eye. It is also one of the cheapest logs that you can invest in. It has a good density that will retain heat and keep out the cold. Further, it looks rather light but can be stained for a darker look.
Western Red Cedar
This is a great option for dense logs that will keep your cabin warm while keeping the bugs out. It is aesthetically pleasing with a distinct look that makes it unique. For the same reason, it is also a popular option.
Douglas Fir
This wood is cheaper than the Western Red Cedar but is a popular, sturdy option. It is also extremely durable and stays put for many years. This also keeps it from warping, giving it a timeless, aesthetic look.
If you are not sure what logs to pick out, opt for logs that grow at higher elevations. They are sturdier as they take longer to grow. If you will be involved in the cutting process, it is good to avoid trees that have rotting spots.
You may need more help in picking just the right wood for your logs. Magazines like Artisan Log Homes will give you a good idea of the kind of wood that will fit your log home best.
Now that you know the kind of logs available to you, you may want to begin the buying process. You may now wonder where you can buy your logs?
Where Can You Buy Logs For A Log Home or Cabin?
For cost-effective options, look for a local seller for your logs. You may want to ensure that they have the wood that you are looking for. Keep an eye on the prices as well. Read ahead to find out the different ways in which you can buy logs for your log home.
Your Local Sawmills
Your best option may be to approach a sawmill near you. While you can approach logging companies, these are often ill-equipped to address your personal needs. This is because they deal directly with sawmills and not with individuals.
By speaking to people at your local sawmill, you will also be able to find the cheapest shipping options. The closer the sawmill to you, the cheaper the shipping may be. There is another advantage to buying from your local sawmill. The wood here will mostly be used to the weather in which your log home will survive.
Hence, your choice of wood will be weather-resistant and sturdy.
However, you may have looked at magazines that offer great cabin ideas and companies around the US that make logs for these. In this case, the wood available at your local sawmill may not appeal to your aesthetic. In this case, going online might be your best option.
Buying Logs for Your Log Cabin Online
If you are looking to purchase your logs online, many companies are available for your needs. Some companies like eLog Homes will take care of log supplies, cabin design, and will even construct your log cabin for you. You can get all of this done by sitting in the comfort of your home.
Their website is filled with multiple options for you. You can narrow down on designs and look at the prices they offer. If you register, they will also provide you with a ‘Log Home Catalog.’ If you don’t know how to build your cabin or aren’t looking at spending your time on it, this is a great option for you.
You may also want to look at Wholesale Log Homes as an option for your logs. If you know exactly what you want and have picked your preferences, this website is just right for you. They supply Eastern White Pine logs at affordable wholesale prices. You can pick the shape, type, and groove that you want ad they will tailor and deliver them to you just right.
You can give them the floorplan for your log home, and they will deliver the right logs for this. A link on their website will let you know how much you are likely to pay them. You can get in touch with them, give them your floor plan, and the right logs will be delivered to you.
Do note that this company is based in North Carolina. If you live outside the East Coast, you may want to consider other options to save up on shipping costs.
Wholesale Logs for your Log Cabin
If you are looking for good quality logs at low prices, wholesale log manufacturers may be your go-to option. However, they are often difficult to find. We have compiled a list of wholesale log sellers for you below.
Wholesale log companies are often cheaper than other options as their reach is not as spread out. They do not invest too much in advertising. Hence, individuals do not usually buy directly from them. However, if you do, you will be in for a treat.
Most of these companies, however, will not offer to-build and constructing options for you. You will have to take care of these yourself. They are a great option if you are looking to buy any side logs for your cabin instead of whole logs for a building.
Akerwoods is one of the companies we outlined for you. They have their take on how you can save your money.
Log Home Kits
If you want to look for more convenient options, log cabin or log house kits may be just the right purchase for you. There are currently several pre-designed kits available for you in the market. Some of them are energy-efficient, while others will use hand-peeled logs. You will also be able to pick materials that are resistant to shrinkage, warping, and twisting.
Some of these kits are slightly pricier as they are handcrafted for you. Others are budget-friendly and can make large houses or small cabins. You will find options for most of your preferences. You can take a good look at these and compare prices on eBay.
How Can I Find Some Good Discounts?
We’ve outlined some of the options available to you when you choose to buy logs for your log home. If you’re buying online, your search will usually not end there. You will want to look for some great discounts using which you can make your purchase cheap and your log cabin cost-effective.
As a general rule, you can save the most money when you buy the local variety of wood from your closest sawmill. This will cut down on shipping costs as well. Further, you will have the most weather-resistant wood available for your area. If you plan on building the cabin yourself, you will further cut down on costs. It will let your creative juices flow and make you productive.
Your local sawmill may also give you discounts knowing that you live in the area. You may want to make use of any contacts you have here.
Another great option for you is to cut down the logs on your property. If this is an option for you, first take a look at local laws. Once you know that they approve, look for wood that has no rotten spots. You want the strongest wood for your log home.
Look for trees that are at least 8 inches in diameter. Further, the project will also make sure that you can put any excess trees on your property to good use. The best part is that you’ll save a lot of money from having to buy logs from a seller.
Tree Removal Companies
If you want to use a cheaper and off-beat route to source your logs for the log cabin, look for tree removal companies. They are commissioned to uproot and cut trees from properties. You can procure wood from them for a much lower price than you would pay your local seller.
Finally, a cost-effective way is to use your contacts for sourcing wood. Ask neighbors in properties around you if they have wood to part with or trees they’d like cut. You can use these logs to build your log home.
Related Questions
Now that you know exactly where to source your wood or buy logs for your log cabin, we proceed to answer some related questions you may have had.
How Much Will It Cost Me to Build a Log Cabin?
A small cabin may cost you $20,000, while a large one may cost you $100,000. The cost lies between this range. However, the final cost will also depend on the size and whether you build the cabin yourself or outsource the construction.
Can I Build a Log Cabin On My Own Land?
Yes, you can build a log cabin on your own land. However, do look at the local laws regarding the same. You may want to confirm what your local building and zoning laws say.
Final Verdict
Whether you choose to build your own log home or get someone to do it for you, buying good quality logs is a good option.
The most cost-effective option is to cut the trees on your own land. However, you can buy the logs to build your log cabin from local sawmills.
Other options include online retailers and wholesalers. Some retailers may even build a log cabin for you. You can now choose the right place for you to make the best purchase.
