If you’re looking to add a beautiful wooden structure to your garden, you’ve probably come across both log cabins and summerhouses. They might look similar at first glance, but there are some important differences between them that could affect which one is right for your needs. Keep in mind that how different providers classify their products will also vary.

In this blog we outline the general differences between log cabins and summerhouses. We also talk about the Summerhouses and log cabins that Summerhouse24 manufactures and sells. With decades of experience we’ve got plenty of experience with what makes each special.

Differences between log cabins and summerhouses

Before we get into the details, here is a helpful table that outlines the key differences between log cabins and summerhouses.

	Log cabins	Summerhouses
Size and dimensions	Typically larger structures. From small 3m x 3m to 6m x 6m and anything above.	Generally more compact buildings, about 2m x 2m to 4m x 4m. Smaller profiles are at around 1.8m to 2.2m eaves height.
Wall thickness and construction materials	Substantial wall thickness, about 44mm to 90mm.	Thinner walls with less insulation, about 18mm to 40mm.
Construction techniques	Distinctive construction style. Notched corner joints have overlapping logs that interlock. Typical roof design is apex (pitched) roof.	Often use panel construction with a separate frame and cladding or tongue and groove. Many roof styles are commonly available (apex, pent, hipped, pyramid).
Design styles	Classically rustic with apex roof, but modern designs also have minimalist and Scandinavian styles. Can incorporate large glazed surfaces, twin-skin insulated builds and flat roof designs.	Can be more ornamental and decorative in appearance. More diversity in styles: octagonal and hexagonal shapes.
Insulation and weather resistance	Thick log walls for year-round use. Interior cooler in summer and warmer in winter.	Thinner walls for milder weather: more prone to drafts, moisture with wet weather, colder in winter, can get too hot on warmest summer days. Solution: opt for thicker walls (starting from 44mm). Use floor and roof insulation.
Intended use	Multi-purpose use, often throughout the entire year.	Primarily designed for seasonal leisure use during the warmer months
Cost	From £3,000 for a basic model all the way up to £50,000 and above.	About £1,500 for simple models, up to £10,000 and above for larger cabins or with extras.

1. Size and dimensions

When you think of a log cabin, most of us immediately envision a large structure made of thick timber, maybe even surrounded by a forest. On the other hand, the word ‘summer house’ conjures up a smaller structure in our minds, typically located in a garden.

Log cabins are typically larger structures compared to summer houses. You’ll find them ranging from cosy 3m x 3m models all the way up to spacious 6m x 6m structures or even larger buildings. This extra space makes sense when you consider that log cabins were originally designed as dwellings. These days garden log cabins are very popular among people and are available in smaller sizes for gardens with less space available.

Summerhouses are very generally speaking more compact garden buildings. Small summerhouses usually fall somewhere between 2m x 2m and 4m x 4m. Lower profiles typically range from 1.8m to 2.2m at the eaves. Since small summer houses with less than 2.5m eaves height don’t need planning permission typically, this is a popular size for smaller structures. The smaller footprint of summerhouses reflects their original purpose as seasonal garden retreats rather than full-time living spaces.

Before buying ask yourself: do you need a spacious structure for year-round use, or a smaller retreat for those sunny summer days?

Among Summerhouse24 log cabins and summerhouse design’s you may find the building you are looking for in either of the categories. All garden buildings have several wall thicknesses to choose from, so you may opt for a ‘summerhouse’ design that is perfect for you and upgrade to a log-cabin-level wall thickness, for example. More on wall thickness in a minute. 

It’s also useful to know that you have a lot of control over any design and are able to request changes via Summerhouse24 bespoke design service. And, if you can’t quite make up your mind, our expert sales team is available 7 days a week over phone or email.

2. Wall thickness and construction materials

The walls of your garden building are perhaps the most defining difference between these two options. 

Log cabins are built using timber logs that have substantial thickness. You’re looking at anywhere from around 44mm to 90mm for the logs themselves. These interlock at the corners for structural integrity, and the solid wood construction provides natural insulation without needing additional cladding. The logs themselves form the walls, giving log cabins their distinctive appearance. Summerhouse24’s largest cabins are made of 88mm glued laminated (glulam) timber, that has 3x strength of steel and a gorgeous uniform surface.

Summerhouses take a different approach. They’re typically built using a timber frame construction with thinner cladding materials. Most commonly, you’ll find:

• Shiplap cladding, which has a rebate cut into the top and bottom to create a channel for water runoff
• Tongue and groove boards that interlock with a tongue on one edge fitting into a groove on the adjacent board

The wall thickness for summerhouses is usually much less than log cabins, typically ranging from around 18mm to 40mm. This means they don’t have quite the same level of insulation. 

However, Summerhouse24 has taken a different approach to summer houses and most  summerhouses come with a wall thickness of 44mm. This is because we want to provide a high-quality structure that lasts for decades thanks to thicker wood. These structures are also able to withstand extreme weather and provide more security and comfort.

If you’re thinking about a more substantial structure that you can use year-round, you might want to check out our comprehensive guide to residential log cabins in the UK.

3. Construction techniques

Log cabins have a very distinctive construction method. The most noticeable feature is their notched corner joints where logs overlap and interlock. These traditional corner jointing techniques create both strength and visual appeal. You’ll commonly see:

• Scandinavian saddle notch (Traditional full scribed notch) – This traditional method involves carefully cutting a concave scallop on the underside of each log to perfectly fit over the rounded log below. It creates excellent weather resistance and a classic Nordic appearance.
• Full dovetail notch – This precision joinery technique uses trapezoidal cuts that interlock for exceptional strength and stability. It’s more labor-intensive but creates a highly secure corner connection that resists pulling apart over time.
• Butt and pass notch – A simpler technique where logs are alternately extended past the corner (pass logs) while others are cut flush with the corner (butt logs). This creates a strong but less complex joint that’s popular in more rustic or DIY cabin builds.
• Corner post notch – This method uses vertical posts at each corner with horizontal logs fitting into grooves in the posts. It’s a more modern approach that creates clean corners and can be easier for less experienced builders.

The structure is self-supporting, with the logs themselves bearing the load. Log cabins almost always feature apex (pitched) roofs, which add structural strength and help shed snow and rain.

Summerhouses are built quite differently. They typically use panel construction with a separate frame and cladding. The corners are usually secured with screws and brackets rather than those lovely interlocking techniques you see in log cabins. Many summerhouses arrive with prefabricated panels or kits that can be quickly assembled on-site.

Another difference is in the roof styles. While log cabins typically stick to apex designs, summerhouses offer more variety with pent (single-sloped), hipped, and even pyramidal roof designs.

4. Design styles and aesthetics

When it comes to looks, both structures have their own distinctive charm and a range of styles to choose from.

Log cabins often draw inspiration from traditional alpine or Nordic designs with their visible logs and rustic appeal. But don’t think they’re all traditional – modern log cabin designs have come a long way! These days, you can find minimalist designs with clean lines, Scandinavian-inspired cabins featuring large glazed areas, twin-skin insulated log cabins for thermal efficiency and even contemporary flat-roof designs for a modern aesthetic.

They typically feature rectangular or square footprints, often with extended roof overhangs and covered porches for a classic cabin feel.

Summerhouses tend to be more ornamental and decorative in appearance. They’ve got a rich heritage of garden ornamentation that shows in their diverse styles. Victorian-inspired designs with details and flourishes, octagonal or hexagonal shapes and corner summer houses with patios.

These design differences reflect their different origins. Log cabins evolved from practical northern European dwellings, while summerhouses grew out of Victorian garden ornamentation and leisure structures.

5. Insulation and weather resistance

The British weather can be quite unpredictable, so how your garden building handles the elements is worth considering.

Log cabins have natural advantages when it comes to insulation and weather resistance. The thick solid timber walls provide excellent thermal mass that helps regulate temperature – keeping the interior cooler in summer and warmer in winter. This natural insulation comes from the density and thickness of the logs.

The interlocking construction method also creates a naturally wind-resistant structure. There’s a reason log cabins have been the building method of choice in harsh Alpine and Nordic climates for centuries! With proper treatment and maintenance, log cabins can withstand the full range of British weather conditions year after year.

Summerhouses, with their thinner walls, don’t offer the same level of natural insulation. They’re designed primarily for use during milder weather, which is reflected in their construction. The panel and cladding approach can create more opportunities for drafts compared to solid log construction.

That said, modern summerhouses often compensate with features like:

• Double glazed windows for better thermal efficiency
• Draft-excluding strips around doors and windows
• Optional insulation packages that can be added to walls, floors and roofs
• Heavier gauge roofing felts or shingles for better weather protection

If you’re planning to use your garden building during colder months or want to extend its seasonal use, insulation and weather resistance should be high on your list of considerations.

6. Intended use

How you plan to use your garden building should be a major factor in your decision.

Log cabins are designed for multi-purpose use, often throughout the entire year. Their substantial construction makes them ideal for guest accommodation, extra living space, garden gyms, studios and workshops.

They’re better suited for electrical installations and plumbing, and are often fitted with proper insulation and heating systems for comfortable use even in winter.

Summerhouses, by contrast, are primarily designed for seasonal leisure use during the warmer months. They’re perfect for garden retreats and reading nooks, setting up afternoon tea spaces for sunny days, entertainment areas for summer gatherings and decorative focal points to your garden landscape.

Summerhouses excel at bringing the outside in. This applies particularly to models with large windows and scenic positioning that make the most of garden views.

Think about when and how you’ll use the space – if it’s just for summer enjoyment, a summerhouse with might be perfect. If you need something for year-round use, a log cabin or summer house with thick walls and insulation could be the better choice.

7. Cost considerations

Log cabins generally need a higher initial investment. You’re typically looking at prices ranging from £3,000 for a basic model all the way up to £30,000 or more for larger, more luxurious designs. Several factors affect the price:

• Log/wall thickness is a big factor
• Size and complexity of design
• Additional insulation
• More complex foundation needs can add to the overall cost

That said, log cabins often offer better long-term value if you plan to use the space year-round. They can also add significant value to your property if well-constructed.

Summerhouses come with a more affordable entry point. Prices typically range from £1,500 for simple models up to £10,000 for more elaborate designs. The cost is influenced by:

• The quality and thickness of the cladding used
• Decorative elements and glazing options (single vs double)
• Size and design complexity
• Often with simpler foundation requirements

Summerhouses can have lower maintenance costs if used seasonally, rather than a functional living space.

Making your choice

When you’re deciding between a log cabin and a summerhouse, think about what you’ll primarily use it for, what your budget allows, and how the structure will complement your outdoor space. Don’t be afraid to consult the experts! Experienced providers are quickly able to assess your needs and opportunities and come up with great recommendations on the fly.

Here at Summerhouse24, we take pride in manufacturing both high-quality log cabins and summerhouses in our own factory. Our team is always happy to chat through your options and help you find the perfect garden building for your needs.

Whichever you choose, investing in a quality wooden garden building will enhance your lifestyle for years to come. Why not pop us a message to discuss your garden dreams?