History

• Introduced by Swedish settlers in the New World in the 1700's, log homes began popping up throughout the newly founded colonies. Log homes were easy to build because of the accessibility of trees. Considering the fact that no nails were needed for the project, erecting a home was a fast process.
  Often built as one large room on the main floor and a loft to use for sleeping upstairs, early log cabins only provided a roof over the settlers' heads. Floors were often made from dirt or rock and cracks between the logs let in all of the cold winter wind. As time and technology progressed, settlers began to seal the logs with mortar, which is referred to as "chinking."
  
  

Types

• Builders have developed three different types of log cabin throughout the years.
  A "chinked' log cabin is the style in which the logs are left round and are attached by notched corners. The chinking keeps the logs secure and is visible on the inside and outside of this type of cabin.
  "Hand-hewn" log cabins are created when the logs are flattened and attached by notches in the corners. Natural variations in each log are visible, as is the chinking which is used in between.
  Log cabins that are described as "fully scribed" are those that are built using fitted logs that are attached to each other by notches in the corners. Chinking is not visible in this type of cabin.
  
  

Features

• Log cabins of today usually feature the same open floor plan, mirroring those of days gone by. Considered more of a luxury than a shanty, log cabins are usually equipped with a large rock fireplace and oversize windows.
  
  

Considerations

• Log cabin builders can be contacted online or visited in person. Commonly, log cabins today are made by manufacturers. The logs and most other building supplies are delivered to the building site. Using a log cabin manufacturer guarantees that everything that is needed to successfully build the log cabin of your dreams will be put into your home.
  
  

Misconceptions

• A log cabin is not restricted to a wooded getaway. Just because you decide to live in a log cabin, does not force you to decorate your home with wildlife and rustic cabin charm.
  
  It is a common misconception that log cabins are cold. Logs, especially those that come from a manufacturer, are equipped with insulation inside of each log.