HOW TO CREATE A BUDGET FOR BUILDING A LOG HOME
Our favorite question, and one we get regularly, is “How much does a log home cost compared to a stick frame home?” Our answer has always been, “That depends.” I know this seems like a non-answer, but the reality is that it depends on lots of things, such as the type of log construction, square footage, roof system complexity, interior finishes, and landscaping. I think you get the picture.
How do you determine what to budget for square footage if you build with log?
Let’s answer some questions so you can make an educated decision:
What type of log construction do you want/prefer?
- Milled Log Home – logs are milled to a consistent diameter in a controlled production environment.
- Hand Crafted Log construction, including Timber Frame and Dovetail – logs are hand-fit to craft a one-of-a-kind structure. All are old-world beautiful but require highly skilled craftsmen, so they cost more due to the increased labor and skill needed to formulate these masterpieces!
What type of wood do you want: fir, spruce, or western red cedar?
- Some wood species are plentiful, so they are priced accordingly, while other wood species that are hard to find or in limited supply will cost more.
Size does matter.
- 10-inch logs provide the best bang and bank for the buck! They have excellent insulation value and are cost-effective.
- Larger logs cost a bit more, depending on the look you want and the diameter needed to create that look.
So, where does that leave you? On average, we recommend starting your log package budget at around $45 to $65 a square foot for Milled and going up from $85 to $125 for Handcraft, Timber Frame, or Dovetail. You can figure out the remaining budget numbers with your builder from this point. With modest finishes, most Milled Log homes range from $175 to $200 a square foot, with Handcraft Log Homes ranging from $350 and up a square foot. Regional variances and personal preferences will affect these numbers. This gives you an average ballpark in your discussions with your builder.
Every home build is different and is tailored to your specifics. We hope this provides you with a bit of guidance as you start your journey to YOUR DREAM LOG HOME.
