by Wispen Lee

Created on: February 05, 2008   Last Updated: March 05, 2008

The mere mention of a log cabin brings to mind images of tranquility, of serenity amidst a calming nature, and of structures constructed by ancient pioneers many years ago. Many dream of retiring to a log cabin nestled snugly between mountains, with a couple of dogs for companions and a toasty fire to keep them warm. People want to get back to nature, but end up settling for small log play houses in their back yards because they have no idea how to find that ideal log cabin to retire in. Well, fret no more! This guide seeks to provide the initial steps towards actually building your own rustic log cabin, for the days when you can finally escape the stressful life in the city.

Location, Location, Location

Location is one of the first factors that you have to consider before even beginning to construct your log cabin. Trespassing of course, is against the law, so even before you begin gathering the necessary equipment to begin constructing your cabin, first scout around for a parcel of land that is large enough and yet convenient enough for the transportation of your furniture or building equipment. Ideally, your log cabin should be located near a river, to ease with water collection issues, however this is not necessary, as wells can be dug to furnish the same purpose. Wooded areas serve the function of a wind break for your log cabin, but ensure that there is a sufficiently sized clearing around your cabin, to protect yourself from falling trees.

Finding the right kind of wood

One of the most important steps that one has to take before building a rustic log cabin, is to find the right type of wood to build the cabin with. While technically all kinds of trees can be used to construct a log cabin, experts have recommended conifers such as pine, fir, spruce and tamarack because these softwoods are workable, durable and relatively lightweight. Ease in construction depends on what type of logs you select, and as a rule, it is good to find logs that are 16 ft long, which are relatively straight, around 8 to 10 in. in diameter and has only minor tapering-no more than 2 in.

Ideally, you should fell the trees in winter, where the cooler temperatures result in a slower drying time, which keeps the wood from cracking or splitting. In addition, felling the trees in winter also aids in the transportation of the logs, as the snow would be easier to haul the logs through.

Seasoning the wood ensures that the wood dries properly, and thus is less susceptible to cracking or pests

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