If you’re planning to build a log cabin home, the sky’s the limit when it comes to choosing how your new home will look, feel, and function.

You don’t need to hire a builder that specializes in custom log cabins to create a home that reflects your style preferences. eLoghomes offers hundreds of fully customizable log home packages, with floor plans ranging from 400-4,000+ square feet. Our kits streamline the home-building process and help reduce the likelihood of common headaches and delays.

Our team has put together this list of the top five things to consider as you decide on a log home package and map out the details of your build. Here they are, in no special order.

1: Aesthetics

Log homes have a distinctive aesthetic, and that’s part of their appeal. But modern log homes are anything but one-size-fits-all. You can choose from a variety of log and corner styles that match your aesthetic preferences.

For example, a home built with notch lap or bevel logs has a more modern appearance. “D”-style logs paired with saddle notch, notch and pass, or dovetail corners results in a more traditional look.

Search the eLoghomes catalog to see more than 200 unique home designs and discover your favorite styles.

2: Layout/Floor Plan

Whether you’re building a primary home or a vacation cabin for family trips, you’ll want to give some careful thought to the layout of the home. Open floor plans are common in main living areas, optimizing flow between rooms.

Make sure the layout you choose will allow for specific activities. A loft is a versatile space that can be used for anything from a game room to a reading nook to additional sleeping quarters. If you opt for a two-story floor plan, consider a functional layout that puts the master bedroom on the first floor and the remaining bedrooms upstairs. This gives you and your family/guests more privacy.

3: Energy Efficiency

Well-built and maintained log homes are highly energy efficient. Log homes retain heat in the winter and stay cooler in summer, thanks to the thermal mass of log walls. An NAHB study showed that a 6” thick log wall is 7% more energy efficient than a 2”×6” framed wall with R-19 insulation.

eLoghomes is a leader in energy efficient log home designs. Our Weatherlink™ system ensures a weather-tight seal and is among the top performing in preventing air infiltration. We also offer structural insulated panels (SIPs) as part of our Platinum Energy Package for all second story walls and gable ends, as well as the roof. SIPs help minimize air infiltration and provide exceptional energy efficiency, as well as environmental safety and comfort in your home.

4: Natural Light and Views

Whether you’re building a home in the Appalachians or the high desert, views are part of the log home experience. If your build site is tucked into the woods or on a shady slope, maximizing natural light is even more important.

Work with your builder or general contractor to orient your log cabin in a way that lets in more sunlight and maximizes your view of sunrises and sunsets. Consider a home model with big picture windows in the great room that frames picturesque landscapes, like eLoghomes’ Aspen or Big Sky models.

5: Decks and Garages

Decks and porches can greatly expand your outdoor living space, bringing your family closer to nature. Garages are versatile spaces that can serve not only as vehicle storage, but also as a workshop, home gym, art studio, and more. While a deck or garage can be added after the fact, the best time to incorporate these functional features is during initial construction.

Many eLoghomes models come standard with wraparound decks and porches, which can be customized with handcrafted accents. We also offer garage upgrades (attached or detached) for all our models. Choose from solid log or conventionally framed/log-sided garage options.

Start Building Your Dream Home with eLoghomes

Get in touch with our knowledgeable team to learn more and get started on your log home-building project. We offer optional construction services for your eLoghomes shell package to make home building even more efficient.

Our log home kits are ideal for primary dwellings, vacation cabins, rental homes, and more. Take a virtual tour of some of our most popular models, then search our portfolio to find your perfect home.