Log Home Comfort Elevated: Sustainable Design

Building Your Dream Log Home

For those looking to embrace the charm and rustic elegance of log cabin homes, Natural Element Homes is the industry leader in creating custom log homes that combine traditional aesthetics with modern efficiency. We offer a wide variety of log home packages tailored to fit your unique vision.

Craftsmanship and Quality

At Natural Element Homes, our commitment to craftsmanship ensures that every log home is built to the highest standards. Our logs are kiln-dried and precision-milled to maintain durability and structural integrity. This meticulous attention to detail guarantees that each home we build features the highest quality materials and construction techniques available.

Sustainable Log Home Designs

Our high-quality log homes are designed with sustainability in mind. From energy-efficient log walls to eco-friendly flooring options, we ensure that your custom log home minimizes its environmental footprint while maximizing comfort. Our years of experience in log home design allow us to incorporate innovative solutions for long-term sustainability.

Air Leakage in Log Homes

Log homes often face air leakage issues due to several factors such as log shrinkage, settling, construction methods, and maintenance. As logs dry out and shrink naturally, small gaps may develop, particularly in the initial years following construction. Settling can also create spaces between logs, especially at corners and junctions of walls. Any flaws in construction, like poorly fitted logs or insufficient sealing, can worsen air infiltration. Regular maintenance, proper building techniques, and the use of sealants and insulation can help mitigate air leakage and enhance energy efficiency.

Minimizing Air Leakage in Log Homes

Log homes are prone to developing air leaks. When assembled or constructed, air-dried logs still contain about 15%–20% water. Over the next few years as these logs dry out, they shrink. This shrinking causes gaps to form between the logs, leading to drafts and higher heating and cooling requirements.

To reduce air leakage, logs should be seasoned (dried in a sheltered area) for at least six months before construction starts. Here are the best woods to use to avoid this problem, listed by effectiveness:

• Cedar
• Spruce
• Pine
• Fir
• Larch

Since most manufacturers and experienced builders are aware of these shrinkage and air leakage issues, many will kiln-dry the logs before final shaping and installation. Some also advise using plastic gaskets and caulking compounds to seal gaps. These seals need to be checked regularly and resealed as necessary.

The Custom Log Home Experience

Every homeowner’s wishes are unique, which is why our custom log homes are personalized to reflect your individual preferences. Whether you have specific floor plans in mind or need assistance crafting your ideal log home floor plan, our expertise in log home living ensures a seamless process from drafting to completion.

Log Cabin Kits and More

In addition to fully custom builds, we offer versatile log cabin kits for those seeking more control over the construction process. These kits include everything you need—log siding, decking materials, and more—so you can assemble a beautiful new log cabin with ease. Our comprehensive log cabin kits simplify the building process without compromising on quality.

Precision and Excellence

As a premier log home manufacturer in America, we take pride in every project we undertake. The terms “great room” and “precision-milled” define the essence of our service, embodying luxury and exactitude. Our extensive selection of floor plans ranges from modest cabins under 1,000 sq. ft to expansive retreats offering over 5,000 sq. ft of luxury living space.

The Ultimate Log Home Dream

Your ultimate log home dream can become a reality with Natural Element Homes. Discover why so many choose us as their trusted partner for building their own piece of American heritage. Embrace the timeless appeal of a handcrafted log cabin where comfort meets sustainability.

Connect with us 1-800-970-2224 to start planning your journey toward unparalleled log home living!