If you’ve been following home design trends, you’ve likely heard the term “cottagecore.” People love that simple cabin aesthetic, and it has remained in the trend cycle for as long as most of us can remember. Log cabins tend to stand out among other, more modern homes. While they fit with the rugged mountain vibe in the Bow Valley, they’re pretty uncommon here, too. So, if you’re looking to build or buy a log home in the Bow Valley, here are some pros and cons for you to think about.
They’ve Got Character
Log homes aren’t super typical, but they stand out from the rest and fall into the category of character homes that catch people’s attention. The real estate market follows supply and demand, so if there is a limited supply of log cabin-style homes and a high demand, you might just be sitting on a pretty attractive investment. Character homes are lovely for many reasons, and attracting future buyers is one of those reasons.
They Stand the Test of Time
These homes have stood the test of time in terms of style, but they also stand the test of time in terms of physically lasting for ages. There are log homes worldwide that have been standing sturdy for hundreds of years. These expertly-built structures are made to last, and you can rest assured that you’ve got a durable home. While there is obviously upkeep, the structural integrity of the houses tends to be strong.
You Can Choose Between Kit or Custom
Depending on your style and budget, you can choose a standard stock option which can be bought kit-style, or have your log home designed just for you. Many builders who specialize in this type of home have preset plans that you can choose from. This makes the design and builds more affordable and far quicker. If you’ve got a big budget and some specific design ideas, you can partner with a builder who is excited and willing to design and build something just for you.
They’re Cute & Cozy
Last but absolutely not least, log homes are the coziest homes imaginable. If you’re looking for something warm, inviting, and adorable, a log home won’t disappoint. There’s a reason the trends always sway back in the quaint and vintage direction. Now, let’s talk about some of the cons.
Insurance Can Be Tricky
Log homes are different than what we’re mostly seeing on the market these days. They have unique challenges regarding maintenance, pest control, insulation, electricity, etc. Therefore, some insurers are wary of covering log homes, especially if they're older. Though many large providers cover log homes, they may require you to get a more specialized type of coverage.
Unique Maintenance Needs
As we mentioned, log cabins have some unique maintenance demands. This doesn’t necessarily mean that they require more maintenance than other homes, just different maintenance that you’ll want to become aware of. For example, re-staining the logs, dealing with potential rot, and re-sealing the space between the logs might have to be on your radar.
Weather is a Big Factor
Logs are a bit more vulnerable to the weather than other building materials. Rain, snow, and humidity can damage log homes and cause moisture damage as the logs are often relatively porous. Mould and rot are most common in dark, damp places and log cabins are exactly that. So, you’ll need to be extra cautious when weather protecting your home and ensure you are inspecting it for potential damage often.
Pests Can Be a Problem
Similarly, pests can be a big problem. With porous wood or areas that aren’t well-sealed, you may end up with a bug problem on your hands. Be sure to look into log home-specific pest control before buying or building.
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