Log Cabin Ideas That Add a Unique Look

Byemilyharper1
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Many people think of a traditional log cabin as a rustic small home in a forest. However, it can be virtually any style structure made to your specifications. There are many exterior and interior ideas and features you can add to create a unique look. 

Some exterior ideas include using log siding instead of full logs to save money and get your cabin built faster. Others include more energy-efficient features, an outdoor entertaining area, peeled posts, and arched trims.

For the interior, go with some exposed beams, log trusses, and antique lighting. Think about a few built-in bookcases or shelving, and a four-season room. The following ideas will give you some options to consider for a unique look. 

Exterior Log Cabin Ideas: Traditional Cabins

There is an array of exterior cabin ideas you might consider building into your plans. Although there are many possibilities, let’s focus on five here:

  • Log Siding is used in place of full logs to provide a traditional look without the full log cost and extended maintenance.
  • Log Railings are used to enhance the appearance of a front, back, or wrap-around porch. They also add a safety feature to prevent falling off a porch.
  • Peeled Posts are great for supporting porches and pergolas. 
  • Arched Trims look magnificent over windows and doors
  • Log Siding Electrical Boxes for singles, doubles, triples, and lights are different

Any or all these exterior ideas add special touches to a traditional log cabin.

More Log Cabin Ideas for the Modern Cabin Exterior

There are other exterior ideas for anyone who wants a more modern flair for their cabin. You can still maintain a cozy atmosphere with them while modernizing a bit.

  • Energy-Efficient Features include the most modern windows and doors, wall, attic and roof insulation, and heating and cooling system.
  • An Outdoor Entertaining Area is a super addition for entertaining family and friends. Create a patio with a grill, fire pit, tables, chairs, and low-maintenance landscaping. 
  • A Modern Cool-Looking Roof can add a unique look to any cabin. Go for tiles, slate, metal, solar, or a trendy-color roof. 

Another nifty idea is adding color lighting that enhances the front of your cabin. It also provides a safety feature that can deter vandals. 

Traditional Interior Log Cabin Ideas

There are a few interior ideas that many people overlook in their cabin plans. They are not difficult to incorporate and add some nice touches, including:

  • Log Trusses add a truly rustic touch that looks great and support the roof.
  • Exposed Beams like metal or laminate materials can be enhanced with log beam covers.
  • Antique Light Fixtures hung in strategic places take us back in time.
  • Log Furniture may not be for everyone, but it stands out compared to traditional chairs, couches, and coffee tables.

If you want other traditional log cabin ideas, check online and you will find many. You might even consider some hand-made items of your own.

H4: Log Cabin Ideas for the Modern Interior

Many homeowners are modifying the traditional log home look by adding some modern touches. Although these changes are not new ideas, they are updates to a log home’s rustic atmosphere. These four are typical of the new additions:

  • Built-in Bookcases and Shelving – By building a few bookcases and some shelving into the walls, you create more room because they do stand out into a room. They work  anywhere you need them.
  • Four-Season Room – This room is typically glassed in so you can enjoy the outdoors year-round in comfort. It is often found on the back side and is climate controlled.
  • Spiral Staircase – A cool-looking winding staircase leading to the second floor or loft is eye-catching whether made from wood or wrought iron and wood.
  • Modern Kitchen – You can still enjoy the comforts and atmosphere of a log home with all the latest appliances and conveniences. Their style, sizes, and colors can be adapted to the overall décor of our log home.

How to Make These Unique Ideas More Affordable

Adding these optional ideas to a log home need not be too expensive. Use some money-saving tips from savvy shoppers and you can make a go of it. Try one or more of these approaches:

  • Build with pine log siding instead of full logs. You get the full look appearance for much less cost for materials, labor, and delivery. Watch for sales on all related wood items.
  • Get bids during the off-season for energy-efficient appliances and an outdoor entertainment area.
  • Spend sufficient time searching for a spiral staircase and kitchen appliances to find them on sale. 
  • Do some of the work yourself if you have the woodworking skills.

We hope these ideas will help you add some uniqueness to turn your log cabin or log home into a very special place to live.

5 Top Reasons to Schedule a Chimney Inspection Worcester MA

Starting away in front of a roaring fire is one of the most accessible and most satisfying pastimes during cold weather. However, there is nothing pleasant about the fire, smoke, and water damage that can occur if your fireplace is not kept clean. Having your chimney, fireplace, or wood-burning stove inspected by a Chimney Sweep certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of Worcester MA can help prevent serious problems and keep your venting system running efficiently. can assist To that end, three types of chimney inspections are available:

How much does a chimney inspection in Worcester MA cost

level 1 chimney inspection ($75 to $250) consists of a visual inspection of the fireplace or wood-burning stove and chimney. Choose this option if you intend to use your fireplace/wood-burning stove as you have in the past. If there have been no changes to the fuel type or the shape/material of the flu (i.e., the space inside the chimney) in the year since your last chimney inspection. There has been no damage to the chimney structure.

level 2 chimney inspection ($100 to $500) includes online scanning of internal chimney surfaces. This is the best option if you've made any changes to the chimney or fireplace since the last inspection. Such as changing the fuel type or the shape or material of the flu (i.e., the space inside the chimney). If there was a malfunction that may have damaged the chimney (e.g., a fire or earthquake). If you're planning to sell your home soon.

level 3 chimney inspection ($1,000 to $5,000) inspection includes a Level 1 and Level 2 inspection, as well as a partial tear-out of the chimney to look for more severe damage. If a Level 1 or Level 2 inspection reveals potential safety hazards or hidden problems in the chimney, technicians will perform this inspection.

Parts that are not visible to the naked eye may be damaged.
Repairing or replacing damaged chimney components on time can reduce the risk of fires, carbon monoxide exposure, and water damage. Unfortunately, many vital parts of the chimney are hidden or too high for homeowners to inspect. A chimney sweep is equipped and trained to evaluate damage to the following critical chimney components:

Crown: A crown is a downward-sloping concrete, stone, or metal overhang at the top of a chimney that directs water away from the exterior of the chimney to prevent erosion. Rainwater can run down the sides of the chimney and erode it if it is cracked, usually as a result of weather exposure or the use of weak construction materials, compromising its structural integrity over time. Rainwater can also enter the flu and deteriorate the flue liner (see below). To prevent water damage to the chimney and flue, an inspector can repair or replace a cracked crown.

The flue liner—a clay, ceramic, or metal conduit located between the flue and the chimney walls—protects the chimney walls from heat and corrosion. When combustion byproducts are directed out through the flue. It also prevents smoke and harmful vapors such as carbon monoxide from entering your home through potential cracks in chimney masonry. High heat or embers can damage chimney walls or touch surrounding combustible materials of the home and spark a chimney fire. When cracks form in the flue due to excessive heat, water damage, or wear and tear. Smoke and vapors can also enter the home through masonry cracks, potentially exposing you to carbon monoxide. An inspector can quickly detect and repair cracks in the flue liner. Our Chimney Inspection Worcester MA and surrounding areas. We perform all services related to chimney cleaning & maintenance. Call us at 508-960-7546.