Do it Yourself Log Cabin Building

No one can tell you how to build a cabin that is constructed with logs in a short article. The purpose of this article is to give a guideline for those who are interested in building one. There are many kits, and all different kinds of wood, and so many different ways of building that craftsmen could argue which is the best "till doomsday, but I will only show you some basic basics, then, if you are interested, you can pursue it further, either through the net, or by getting the books needed, so here it is.

Whatever kind of log you want to use make sure they are felled in the winter. They should be as straight as possible and between 8 to 10 inches in diameter and not taper more than 2 inches over 16 feet. Logs should be air dried for two years, making sure that there is good space between the layers to allow for thorough flow. The best thing to do is to use smaller logs to create the spaces.

Before stacking the logs, use what they call a draw knife and only partially peel off the bark to allow for maximum drying and minimal cracking. Always remember to strip off all bark before building so that no bugs will infest your new home that you have worked so hard to build.

There is a misconception that you don't need a foundation, and that cones from when cabins were built very quickly for shelter from the oncoming winter, but if you are going to build a log cabin a foundation is a must, and you can have either a traditional stone one or you can use concrete blocks, concrete is better if you don't want to do the work involved with stone.

If you don't want a full basement, then you have to excavate below the frost line and install footings. The wall to be constructed has to be twenty inches above the grade level, which is the ground level, and make sure that you have good anchor bolts along the top of the wall so that the sill is secure. Inside the foundation walls pier logs must be placed so that they can support the floor girders. It is crucial that the foundations are solid, and that means that they need to be secure from rot and termites.

As I mentioned before, I can't put everything that needs to be done in the space allotted here, this article is to illustrate the basic basics to consider when thinking of constructing your cabin. It is always best to get a good illustrated guide, or a kit , if you are serious, the reason I wrote this piece is because I always stress knowing what you are getting into in every aspect, so that there are no surprises.

If you take your time and do your research you really can build yourself a cabin. Hopefully a log one but if not then consider some other types as well.

Autor: Thoreau Chuong

Thoreau Chuong enjoys writing about home improvement, home & garden, and other home related articles. If you live in Texas, request a free quote on our website home improvement Dallas or home remodeling Fort Worth.

Added: August 18, 2009
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/