The Rustic Appeal of Log Siding

The unique appearance of log siding on a home's exterior lends a sense of warmth and has a homespun appeal; this look lends itself especially well to homes in wooded or mountainous areas. While homeowners may initially shy away from log siding because they think that it is too expensive or labor-intensive, in actuality, log siding can be a very affordable choice for a home's exterior.

One of the easiest ways to achieve the look of log siding while sticking to a budget is to utilize log siding with half-logs. Rather than the weight and bulk of full logs, log siding with half-logs is flat on the side that is placed against the wall of the home. This makes it easier to install and more easily instills the home with the natural beauty and warmth associated with wood. Another plus for this type of siding is that it can be installed on both the outside and the inside of the home.

Log siding can help to reduce utility bills, as most products of this type provide excellent insulation. Wood is known for its beneficial properties of helping to keep the warmth inside during the cool season and helping to keep the heat of the summertime months out, as well.

For homeowners who are concerned about painting, varnishing, and refinishing wood, log siding can be a labor saver. This siding comes pre-finished and sealed so that it looks great right after being installed, and there's no need to paint or finish the wood.

While log siding offers a multitude of advantages, there are some drawbacks associated with this house siding choice. For one thing, wood requires a regular schedule of inspection and maintenance to ensure that insect infestation, mold, mildew, or dry rot are not adversely affecting the siding. As long as the log siding is kept in good shape and cracks, leaks, or weak spots are promptly repaired, this siding should last for decades.

One of the newer innovations in log siding is the introduction of vinyl log siding, which looks just like wood right down to the grain patterns, but offers all of the benefits of vinyl. This option is impervious to insects and weathering, so homeowners who are concerned with the maintenance that real log siding requires often select vinyl log siding as a better alternative.