Windows are a defining feature of any home, but in a log home they take on even more significance. Large windows allow natural light to flood in while providing sweeping views of the outdoors.
Windows play an important role in helping you feel connected to the landscape beyond your home. And connection to nature is a huge reason people choose log home living in the first place.
In the guide below we’ll walk you through the different types of windows for log homes to help you make an informed decision when choosing windows for your new log home.
NOTE: This is a general guide. Not all the options presented below come standard in eLoghomes’ log home packages. Talk to your eLoghomes representative about upgrades or substitutions.
Do Quality Windows Lower Energy Costs?
Windows for log homes have come a long way in recent decades. Advances in technology have made windows much more efficient—and that translates to energy savings for homeowners.
Replacing old windows with ENERGY STAR-certified windows lowers household energy bills by an average of up to 13% when replacing single-pane windows, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
And lower energy consumption reduces greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and homes, says the EPA. So, whether you want to live with a lighter footprint or simply reduce your energy bills, quality windows are part of the equation.
Window Glazing Options
The type of glazing you choose for your windows plays a key role in energy efficiency and comfort in your home. Glazing refers to the number of glass panes in a window, and there are three common options:
- Single glaze: A single pane of glass is the simplest and most cost-effective option, but it provides little in terms of insulation. Single-glazed windows are best suited for very mild, temperate climates, such as coastal areas, where temperature fluctuations are minimal. In regions with more extreme weather conditions, single glazing may lead to heat loss in the winter and/or excessive heat gain in the summer.
- Double glaze: Double glazing consists of two panes of glass separated by a layer of air or inert gas, which improves insulation. Double-glazed windows are much more energy efficient than single glaze, and they are suitable for a variety of climates. The additional pane provides a buffer against heat transfer, helping keep your log home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Most log homeowners in areas with seasonal changes prefer this option for its balance of cost and efficiency.
- Triple glaze: Triple-glazed windows feature three panes of glass, offering superior insulation compared to single and double glaze. This option is ideal for log homes located in cold climates where harsh winters are common, such as mountainous areas or northern regions. Triple-glazed windows significantly reduce heat loss, making them a wise investment in terms of long-term energy savings.
Window Framing Options
The frame you choose for your windows is important, too, as it contributes to both the look of your windows and their energy efficiency. Here are some popular window framing options for log homes:
Wood
Wood window frames are a classic choice for log homes, as they complement the natural aesthetic of the logs. They offer good insulation, but they require more maintenance than other options. Wood can warp, rot, or swell if not properly maintained. Regular staining and sealing can help keep wood frames in good condition.
Vinyl
Vinyl window frames are a low-maintenance option. Vinyl is durable, energy-efficient, and resistant to weathering. Available in a variety of colors, vinyl frames can mimic the look of wood without the upkeep. However, they might not blend as seamlessly with the rustic aesthetic of a log home as well as wood frames.
Fibrex®
A composite material made from a blend of wood fibers and thermoplastic polymers, Fibrex window frames combine the best qualities of both wood and vinyl. It is strong, energy-efficient, and low maintenance, with a natural appearance that can complement the aesthetics of a log home. Fibrex frames are eco-friendly, making them a popular choice for homeowners looking for sustainable materials. Fibrex® is made by Andersen Corporation and is available only through Andersen Windows & Doors.
Aluminum
Aluminum window frames are lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion. They provide a sleek, modern look, making them a good choice for homeowners seeking a contemporary twist on the traditional log home. However, aluminum tends to be a poor insulator, so it may not be the best option for energy-conscious homeowners—unless the frames include a thermal break to improve insulation.
Window Style Options
In addition to choosing the right glazing and framing, you’ll want to select a window style that suits your home’s architectural design and personal preferences. Here are some popular window styles to consider for your log home:
- Casement: Casement windows are hinged at the side and open outward like a door. They provide excellent ventilation and are easy to operate. Unobstructed glass offers a clear view of the outdoors, making them ideal for log homeowners who want a clean aesthetic that highlights the natural surroundings.
- Double-Hung: Double-hung windows have two sashes that can move up and down, allowing for ventilation from both the top and bottom. These windows are a versatile and classic choice, offering a traditional look that pairs well with the rustic appeal of log home
- Awning: Awning windows are hinged at the top and open outward from the bottom, providing ventilation even during light rain. They are often placed higher up on walls, making them ideal for maximizing airflow while maintaining privacy.
- Bay and Bow: Bay and bow windows project outward from the home, creating a cozy alcove or seating area inside. These windows not only add character to the exterior of the log home but also flood the interior with natural light while offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
- Sliding: Sliding windows operate on a horizontal track and are easy to open. Their wide panes allow for plenty of light and an expansive view, making them a popular choice for modern log home
- Picture: Picture windows are large, fixed-pane windows that do not open. They provide uninterrupted views of the outdoors and let in ample natural light. Picture windows are perfect for log homes with scenic surroundings, as they create a panoramic effect and help bring the beauty of nature inside.
When choosing windows for your log home, take some time to carefully consider not only aesthetics but also energy efficiency and functionality.
About Andersen Windows & Doors
eLoghomes is proud to partner with Andersen Windows & Doors for all our log home designs. Committed to energy-efficient design, Andersen received the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year–Sustained Excellence Award in 2024. Andersen’s windows and doors are beautiful, functional, and energy-efficient—the perfect combination for your log home.
Start Building Your Dream Home with eLoghomes
eLoghomes is a leading manufacturer and builder of log homes. Each one of our log home designs comes standard with Andersen windows and (where applicable) doors. Learn more about our window and door options.
Choose your favorite log home floor plan from hundreds of energy-efficient designs in our extensive portfolio—from 400-4,000+ square feet—and start building your dream home!