How to Build Traditional Log Cabins

The traditional log cabin was the hallmark of the pioneer West. It could be constructed quickly from the frontier's abundant natural resources, furnishing a comfortable home. Early Western migrants split logs and joined them together to make a dwelling that was relatively simple to heat and cool. A well-built log cabin can last many years with only minor maintenance. For both practical and historical reasons, log cabins are still popular today.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Set of 14-foot logs Set of 12-foot logs Wooden poles for the roof Thin wooden poles to support the shingles 14-foot long pole Sticks to cover the roof poles Bark slabs to use as shingles

1. Clear a patch of ground on which to build your log cabin. Place two 14-foot logs on the ground, parallel to each other and 10 feet apart.

2. Cut a notch 1 foot from each end of the logs. Place a 12-foot log into each pair of notches, perpendicular to the 14-foot logs.

3. Cut a notch 1 foot from each end of the 12-foot logs. Place a 14-foot log into each pair of notches, perpendicular to the 12-foot logs.

4. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 until the cabin has reached its desired height.

5. Cut a notch 1 foot from each end of the top layer of logs. Place a pole into each of the notches, leaning each pole against the opposite one. Nail or tie the ends together to form a cradle, into which you will insert the ridge pole.

6. Nail or tie sticks between the roof poles to form a light framework. Cover the framework with slabs of bark.

7. Seal spaces between the logs with earth, clay, moss, pine branches or any combination of these or similar materials.

Tips & Warnings

• The number of logs you use depends on the logs' thickness and the height of your cabin. Cut windows and doorways from the finished log walls.

Resources

• Country Log Cabins
• Appalachian Log Homes
• PrecisionCraft Log & Timber Homes