Log Siding Versus Timber Frame Homes

Log homes are a growing trend today, and we have more choices of styles and construction than our grandparents. Two of the favorites are log siding homes and timber frame homes. Those made with log siding have some advantages over timber frame houses you should understand, such as lower cost and faster construction.

Understanding Log Siding Homes

Building a log siding home is easy to understand. The siding is installed on conventional wall framing with simple tools and screws. OSB board and house wrap are first placed on the framing, followed by the siding, and then cut out spaces for windows and doors.

Wiring, plumbing, and ductwork are fashioned within the framing and followed by the insulation. The siding is installed the same way on the exterior and interior of the walls after the window and door trim are put into place.

The process is more straightforward than buildings with massive posts and beams in timber frame construction.  You will also appreciate the lower construction costs. Learn more about wood log siding compared to other types of siding.

What Are Timber Frame Homes

Timber frame homes use frame structures of large posts and beam joined with pegs rather than nails or screws. Most of them have walls on the outside of the frames that leave the timbers exposed. They are strong structures that do not need load-bearing walls in the middle of the cabin.

Timber frame homes can look gorgeous with varying wall materials. Their open concept can be easily achieved, but this construction has some issues:

• They are poor sound blockers
• Material shipping costs are higher
• Higher labor costs for specialized carpenters
• Most are customized, which raises costs
• Timbers may be exposed to weather before construction

Overall, it can be more difficult to find builders with the expertise to construct this home style in your area. The total cost can exceed homes built with pine log siding.

“Homes made with log siding have some advantages over timber frame houses you should understand such as lower cost and faster construction.”

Building Time Comparisons: Log Siding Homes Versus Timber Frame Homes

The time it takes to build a home depends on its square footage, availability of workers, weather conditions, and availability of materials. Homes can typically be constructed faster in warmer climates with less rainfall.

It is common to wait a few months from ordering the timber frames until they are manufactured and delivered. Materials for a log siding home are easier to obtain, and the house can be underway while other people are waiting on their timber frames. Timber frames typically take at least four months or more to build, while log siding homes can be built in less than four months.

Cost Comparisons: Log Siding Homes Versus Timber Frame Homes

The cost of building a house rests on its style, quality of materials, labor, where you live, house size, and material transportation. These are average square foot costs and their reasons:

• The final turn-key cost of timber frame cabins is $350 to $375 per square foot. These costs are based on more time spent custom designing the home. The timbers must be shaped to fit with electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems. Timbers and beams must be integrated with windows and doors, raising costs. Skilled labor also costs more to configure the peg joints. Learn more about timber frame home construction costs.
• The final turn-key cost of pine 3x8 half-log siding homes is $115 to $165 per square foot. The lower costs are based on conventional wall framing with the addition of log siding installed on the exterior and interior walls. Traditional carpenters and skilled homeowners can install the log siding.

As you can see, the overall cost of building a log siding house is much less. Determine the total square-foot cost for your desired house size, and you will see a significant difference! 

Buying Log Siding Home Materials

The essential building phases of a log siding home are the same as conventional houses. Once completed, the log corners, trims, and siding are installed. These three materials are available online through the Log Home Shoppe. You may also want to order the following:

• Knotty pine panelling for ceilings and decking
• Half log mantels for placing over the fireplace
• Knotty pine flooring
• Pine and cedar interior doors
• Interior knotty pine trim
• Stains and sealants
• Caulking and chinking

Quality and price are standouts with all our log home products. Each piece is kiln-dried to ensure proper moisture content and stain adherence. Each is also hand-inspected for quality and available at fair prices. Consider the benefits of a log siding home over a timber frame home.

References and Resources

• Log Siding Home Pros
• Timber Frame Home Cost