If you are just getting started on building your first log home, congratulations for being a first-time log homeowner. You may have a few questions about what to expect, and that is perfectly natural. Here are a few tips about the process of building your log home.
1) For the average-sized custom log home, which is around 2500 square feet, it can take about six months from breaking the ground to the completion of the log cabin (note that design and preparation is not included in your time calculations). It can take up to a year for larger homes or homes with more elaborate styles or in a more challenging location.
2) In order to avoid a poor contractor who makes the timeline longer, do your research. Do not be afraid to shop around and talk to previous clients of your contractor. It’s your house, and you need to decide what hands you want your house in. Make sure that your contractor gives you a fairly specific timeline. Include a penalty clause for delays – if your contractor is a good one, they will honor your request for the penalty clause in their efforts to offer you the best service.
3) If you are wondering what the project will cost, there is no way of knowing – the best way to have a good estimate is to have a good plan. With planning for everything from the timber to the appliances to the contractor to the floor plans, you will have a better idea of how much everything will cost. Remember, the least expensive design is the average four-corner square log cabin, but there is no such thing as an inexpensive home.
4) Let your heart decide the design as far as your budget will take you – measure your needs and wants and know your limits. Less expensive materials, less expensive design, less expensive contractor… these can all help with your expenses. Remember, though, that the cheapest materials may result in worse expenses later on. Learn how to compromise – maybe lessen the amount of contracted custom furniture or maybe tone down a design to be simpler.
5) Do not order your materials too far ahead unless they are expensive materials or require a long time to adjust to the new environment. Interact with your contractor about all your materials – they may be able to store materials or give you suggestions.
6) Remember that going green may cost a little extra, but the costs it eventually saves more than makes up for the initial expense. Look into green building and appliances and plumbing. Build your house so that it does not receive direct sun exposure, but extra windows may give you more light to lessen energy expenses. It’s all about balance.
Above all, feel free to talk with other people who have experienced the same things you are experiencing – your first log home. It can be frightening, but it does not have to be. It can also be excitin
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