Log home small cabin plans

I'm including some small cabin plans and information about log cabins because they are very popular here in the west. There are many log cabin kits that make construction easy. It sure didn't used to be that way.

If you're planning a log cabin be sure to use logs from local manufacturers because the local species of trees that grow will weather the best in your environment. If you live a long distance away from the log manufacturer, be sure to ask what type of log sealant is best for the type of logs used and also what is best for your local environment.

Back in the old west, they had to work really hard to build even a small cabin. I know how hard they worked because I've built one by hand. I'll never do it that way again! It was great experience though.

For more excellent tips on owner builder kit homes go to Kit Home Basics.com

Here's my grandpa's cabin in Montana many years ago. I can't tell if that's my grandpa or my grandma in the picture. Back then everyone was all tough as nails so they pretty much looked alike.


I made my first cabin with a saw and an ax. It's a primitive way of doing things these days. Logs are now run through planers and shaped uniformly.

The logs need to be fairly dry or they will warp and twist once they're installed.

Most log homes are cut and assembled at the manufacturing site to make sure everything fits together perfectly.

Then they are dismantled and hauled to the building site where they are permanently put together.

The species of log used and the diameter of the logs will determine the price. Larger diameter logs are much more expensive than smaller diameter logs.

The planing type or coping method will determine how the logs fit together and it will also have a lot to do with the overall price of the cabin.

There are many different options of appearance for both interior and exterior designs according to your taste. There are also many types of stains the are applied before the sealant goes on. If you want a light colored home on the inside then use a clear or yellow-tinted stain. This will keep the room well lit.

If you prefer a darker color then use a darker stain, but remember, it's really hard to sand off stain if you change your mind.

The same thing applies to the exterior surface. The logs will eventually fade from the new appearance, but this is natural. The most important thing is to apply sealant about every five years or so. This all depends on the type of logs and the type of sealant of course.

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