Large log cabins have a subtle way of helping you rediscover how charming nature and simple wood structures can be. The smell and the texture of the logs bring you closer to the forest right in your backyard in a straightforward yet undeniable way. This is one of the main reasons why large log cabins have become so popular in the past few years.

But we know you have quite a few questions about them, and we are here to answer them all. It’s FAQ time and by the end of this piece you will know everything a large log cabin owner needs before buying one of these beautiful cottages!

Do I Need Permission for Large Log Cabins?

Let’s start with a piece of information you should have or, at least, research, before anything else. Whether or not you require a permit for building or installing a log cabin on your property. 

The answer is no if you live in the UK. Large log cabins are considered to be ‘permitted development.

However, we still strongly advise you to check with your local authorities before proceeding. Not necessarily for the permit per se, but for the size and place of the cabin. For example, you will, most likely, not be allowed to place it in your front garden, but in your backyard only. You will also be given some specifications about how wide and tall it can be or how close it can be installed to the borders of your garden.

How Long Do Large Log Cabins Last?

Here is another good piece of news for you. Large log cabins may survive between 30 and 50 years, provided you take very good care of them. And as long as you build or install them in a place where they won’t have to go through tough weather conditions. 

In fact, good log cabins that have been properly taken care of can even survive an entire century and see several generations make use of them. However, if you do not provide the right maintenance, you will have to step in and renovate them after only five years.

Do Large Log Cabins Have Any Problems?

Once again, if you take care of them and provide proper maintenance, you should not encounter any problems with your log cabin.

That being said, they are made of wood, which means they will be prone to more or less all the problems that are connected to this material. For example, you might have to ward off wood’s natural enemies or make sure it doesn’t rot. Wood is also a liability when it comes to fire-prone areas.

Apart from that, you should also take into account that having a large log cabin on your property might make it a bit harder to sell if you ever decide to move. It will up the price of your house and not all people might be interested in it.

How Often Should You Restrain Large Log Cabins?

On average, large log cabins need to be restrained between five and seven years. But it all depends on the type of wood they are made of as well as the climate you live in. You will also need to pay attention to the weather conditions the log cabins have been exposed to.

The best thing to do is to perform a thorough visual checkup yourself every single year. If you find that the wood needs to be restrained, do it, no matter how much time has passed since the last restraining session.

Can Large Log Cabins Rot?

As mentioned in a previous answer, since the cabins are made entirely of wood, yes, they can rot. But that doesn’t mean they will, especially if you buy a high-quality one and you maintain it regularly.

While we’re on this topic, let’s bust another myth that has been circulating online – dry rot. This is a nonsensical idea that does not happen to wood and certainly not to large log cabins.

Wood only starts rotting when it sits for a large period in an environment with very high humidity. This means between 30% and 60%. Therefore, ‘dry’ rot is not possible.

As a consequence, if your log cabin has roof overhangs, good rain gutters, and downspouts, it can last up to a hundred years and not rot.

What If the Logs Have Rotten?

Don’t despair because it’s most likely surface rot. Which means you can chisel the area away until you reach the solid wood inside. When you do, apply some wood preservative on it very lavishly. After it has dried, coat it with wood epoxy and you’re done!

Can I Pressure Wash Large Log Cabins?

Yes and no. In theory, the answer is yes because a pressure washer is a good way to clean your log cabin. 

However, you have to practice and master the right way of doing it without damaging the wood in the process. In other words, you have to keep moving at all times and always use the fan setting on wide. You cannot stand too close to the logs or keep the stream of water in the same place for too long because you will damage the wood.

This is why we recommend you don’t try this method. Even though it might work, it’s too risky and the water could damage the logs.

Can Large Log Cabins Get Termites?

Yes, they can. In fact, this is one of the main reasons why we recommend you don’t pressure wash your log cabin. The wood can become wet and soft, which is exactly what the termites love. Also refrain from burying any leftover pieces of wood because they will attract termites to your log cabin.

Beautiful and useful at the same time, large log cabins are a fantastic addition to your home and backyard. But it is best if you know as much as possible about how to install and maintain them. Why not start here?