Log Siding: Frequently Asked Questions

Traditional log homes and cabins made with square and full round logs have long been popular. Today, this style is challenged by houses and cabins made with log siding because they are easier to build and cost much less. You get the full log look with log siding without the higher price and maintenance issues of full logs. The following answers will bring out the unique features and benefits of pine and cedar log siding.

Log Siding FAQs: What Is Wood Log Siding?

Wood log siding is made by removing the bark from a log, sizing it to shape in a consistent diameter from end to end, and cutting out the center. The two outside pieces become “D” shaped to form the siding. They are typically 2”, 3”, and 4” thick at the center and 6” to 10” wide. Log siding simulates full logs extremely well and can be stained in a variety of colors.

What Are the Best Woods for Siding? 

The favorite woods for log siding homes are pine and cedar. Although other varieties are occasionally used, pine and cedar are a combination of affordable cost and durability. Pine is the leader because it is a sustainable product made from trees that are grown on tree farms. Cedar is more moisture and insect resistant than most woods.

What Are the Benefits Of Tongue and Groove? 

The tongue and groove (T&G) feature allows two pieces of siding to fit snugly together. The siding edges lie flatter than plain boards and nail or screw heads do not show when placed in the grooves. This configuration allows the installer to put up the siding without someone else holding up one end. 

Why Is the End-Matching Design Popular?

The end-matching design is essentially a tongue and groove on the ends of each piece of log siding. Two pieces fit together tightly and can be end-butted anywhere between the studs. This feature eliminates splicing pieces to fit on wall framing. There is virtually no waste because the last piece in the row is cut off and used as the first piece on the next row.

“You get the full log look with log siding without the higher price and maintenance issues” of full logs.

Log Siding FAQs: What Sizes of Log Siding Are Available? 

The three favorite log siding profiles include quarter log, half log, and premier log in these sizes:

• Quarter Log – 2x6 and 2x8 in both pine and cedar – smooth and hand-hewn surfaces
• Half Log – 3x6 and 3x8 in both pine and cedar – smooth and hand-hewn surfaces

       3x7 available in cedar with smooth and hand-hewn surfaces

• Premier Log – 3x8 and 3x10 in pine and cedar – hand-hewn only

Is Log Siding Available in a Pre-Finished Condition? 

Log siding is offered with professionally-applied exterior or an interior stain. It saves up to 50% compared to on-the-job-site finishing time. There is no need to hire a painter or wait on the weather.

How Are the Corners Installed?

Log corners are installed with screws before the log trim and siding. Different sizes are offered to coordinate with your choice of siding profile. You can choose from these systems:

• Vertical Logs
• Butt-n-Pass D Style
• Butt-n-Pass Double D Style
• Saddle Notch

All these log corner styles provide an unmistakable full-log look on any home or cabin.

Do I Need Log Trim?

Log trim must be installed to seal around doors and windows and provide a finished look to the walls. It is applied to walls after the corner system and before the siding is installed. Sizes are available to match your choice of log siding profile.  

You will find log trim in both knotty pine and cedar with or without a chamfered edge. It can also be installed as a casing or baseboard for walls with siding, drywall, or paneling. The arched log window trim looks magnificent on the exterior walls.

How Is Log Siding Installed? 

Any of the three profiles are installed directly to wall framing after the corners and trims are installed. Start with the bottom row by attaching it with galvanized screws near the bottom of each piece. Place screws into the grooves at the top and add the second row and repeat with screws. Stagger the joints so they will not be on top of each other.

What About Insulation?

Insulation can be placed on the outside walls under the log siding and between the wall framing. Wood siding also acts as insulation where the premier profile provides more than half the log, and half log provides more than a quarter log.

You should consult with your local insulation supplier about the best type and amount for your climate. Higher R-values are needed in colder climates to help keep your home comfortable.

Does Log Siding Need to Be Stained and Sealed?

Wood log siding must be stained and sealed after installation to keep it in good condition. Future applications of high-quality stain/sealer should be applied when needed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This will help retain its original color by protecting it against the elements. Learn more about why you should use log siding.

References and Resources

• Overview of Log Siding
• Why Use Log Siding