Have you ever dreamed of buying a log cabin? Escape to the woods and enjoy the serenity of nature in a rustic, one-of-a-kind living space? Whether you plan to use it as a vacation home, are going off the grid, or just looking for a unique living space, here are 6 tips to consider before you purchase your log cabin.
1. Prepare to Make Your Log Cabin Buy: 6 Tips to Consider
Log cabin builds are a great opportunity to rethink minimalism and live a simpler life more connected to nature. Before embarking on your adventure, you should consider a few preparatory measures. Here are 6 tips to keep in mind:
- Research the Location – Make sure the land you’re planning to build on meets your needs. Consider the remoteness, the cost of the land and what services the local community has to offer.
- Study Building Requirements – There are often local laws or regulations that dictate what kind of buildings are allowed in the area. Larger and more significant buildings require building permits and inspections.
- Work out Your Budget – Research the costs of supplies and materials in your area, and try to reduce any unexpected delays or problems. Build a few extra dollars into your budget and make sure it adequately covers the labour of the build.
- Organize the Timeline – Create a realistic timeline of when each phase needs to be completed, and work backwards from there. Factor in extra months in case of any unforseen delays, and leave yourself some breathing room.
- Find the Right Helper – If you’re working on the solo build, make sure you have assistance if needed. Find somebody to help with the most demanding tasks, and offer unskilled labourers for the easier ones.
- Gather Supplies – Work out a shopping list of the materials you need, including all the wood, screws, nails, insulation and other hardware. You can often find them at hardware stores or even order them online.
Preparing your log cabin build is an essential before diving in. By considering all of these elements, you’ll be in the best position possible to stockpile supplies, and start your outdoor adventure.
2. Research Materials: Get the Most Out of Your Log Cabin
Home Materials Research and Upgrade Ideas to Consider
If you want to give your log cabin a real homey feel, consider some of these home materials research ideas. The key is to choose the right materials and styles for the look you have in mind, then find ways to make the pieces work together to create a complete atmosphere.
- Peruse furniture showrooms, magazines, sample books and online sources for ideas on selecting and fitting furniture in the space.
- Explore the types of flooring, rugs, door and window trims, ceiling treatments, and accents such as lighting and window shutters.
- Investigate the various types of fabrics and trims available for making curtains and upholstery.
- Look at the potential of architectural millwork items and kitchen cabinetry.
Upgrading Your Materials & Accessories
Once you know what type of materials and accessories you want to use in your log cabin, there are plenty of ways to upgrade them. For example, add some throw pillows or throw blankets to the sofa; swap out a brass chandelier for a crystal one; install wall shelves for displaying pictures, books, and plants; repaint the cabinets; or choose a higher grade of wood for the flooring. You can also use your materials research to build a unique style – try bringing in a few more modern pieces and blending them in with more traditional looks.
3. Compare Costs: Find a Cabin That Fits Your Budget
As you plan your cabin getaway, you want to make sure that you get the most bang for your buck. If price is high on your list of criteria, comparing costs is the best way to save. Here are a few tips for identifying a cabin that fits in with your budget.
- Consider Group vs. Private Rentals: When booking a cabin, you’ll need to decide if you want a private rental or if you’re okay splitting the costs with a larger group. Prices can vary widely based on what you’re looking for, with private rentals often more expensive.
- Look Into Off-Season Opportunities: Many cabins offer more competitive prices in the off-seasons, when demand isn’t as high. If you’re flexible with travel dates, it may be worth your while to research different times of the year and snag a great deal!
- Read Reviews: As you examine different cabins and their prices, take the time to read reviews from other travelers about their experiences. You can also look through pictures to get a better idea of what’s included and better compare costs.
Once you have a list of nearby cabins that look like a fit for your budget, it’s time to reach out and secure your spot. Knowing what features you need, what environment you prefer, and your budget can help guide you towards the perfect cabin for your getaway.
4. Consider Accessibility: Make Sure Your Cabin is Easily Accessible
Accessibility is an important aspect to be mindful of when building a cabin. First, take into account the terrain when choosing the location of your cabin. If the terrain is uneven, you may need to incorporate accessible pathways and steps that are wide enough for wheelchair access. Additionally, add handrails to the steps or any sloped surfaces that are easy to grip.
Next, consider how easy your cabin is to enter and exit. Having an accessible entrance with an accessible door is essential. The door should not be too heavy and can swing in both directions. Also, instead of door knobs, opt for lever handles to provide a person in a wheelchair better accessibility. Finally, all windows should have an easy-to-reach opening mechanism and all hallways should be wide enough for a wheelchair to pass through.
- Take into account terrain and pathways when choosing the location of your cabin
- Incorporate accessible entrances and doors
- Choose lever handles instead of door knobs
- Provide easy-to-reach window mechanisms
- Ensure hallways are wide enough for a wheelchair to pass
No matter your plans for your log cabin, if you take the time to consider these tips before making your purchase, you can rest assured that you’ll be getting the perfect home away from home for years to come. It’s the beauty of a log cabin that even when there’s no place like home, you can always stay in the great outdoors!
