Planning: Important Phases of Building a Log or Timber Frame Home

Nowadays it seems as though the world is becoming more and more complicated. So, we want you to be honest…

Who at some point has been daunted by the complexity of planning and building your own log home or timber frame home?

You are not alone.

In fact, the majority of homeowners admit to being apprehensive before they get started.

So allow us an opportunity to help alleviate that pressure. The experts at Timberhaven Log & Timber Homes have an employee average of 27 years experience. A few of our, shall we say “seasoned”, professionals have forgotten more about log homes than some of us will ever know. Rely on this experience to help you get started on the right foot – because we have been there and we have done that!

Over the next few weeks we’re going to discuss several important phases when pursing a log home or timber frame home: Planning, Researching and Budget/Timeframe Goals. Let’s get started.

Important Phases: Planning

Many enthusiasts start by trying to find a plan. While this makes sense, retrospect suggests otherwise. A little bit of preplanning goes a long way and we encourage you to start there.

Set goals. This will help you establish exactly what type of home you want and why. Your goals will be based on personal preferences (i.e. what you like) and practical constraints (i.e. land and financial budgets) and will provide an outline for the designs you’re itching to review.

Consider the following:

What is the main purpose for your log home or timber frame home (e.g. family vacation, permanent home, weekend retreat or any other reason!)?
How many people will use the home?
Do you want to build the cabin yourself (recommended only for those with experience) or will you hire a contractor?
Do you have a style preference (i.e. solid log or timber frame or maybe you’re not sure yet)?
How much money do you want to spend? Realistically now, how much money can you spend?
Do you have land or are you still looking?

Don’t just stop with the list above. Think about your existing home. What do you like about the space? What would you change about the space? Make note of these things so that you don’t lose sight of them. One of our goals: Eliminate the “buts”…i.e. I love my log/timber home, but….”

Once you’ve answered the questions above you will have some key goals set. This is the foundation of planning.

Next week we will talk about ways to research and what questions to ask. Stay tuned.