Replacement Log Siding – Costs and Alternatives

When it comes to log houses, wood is the traditional option for siding, but it’s not the only choice prospective homebuyers have. In fact, there are a few other materials to select from with concrete making a prominent splash as a favorite for new builds, particularly in rustic areas.

Concrete siding is still among the innovative new products , an alternative to wood and distinct contrast with its low maintenance and durability while still offering the charm and appeal of traditional wood. The concrete is designed to replicate the wood texture and grain for a rustic appearance that adds character.

Let’s learn a little bit about some other alternatives for log-sided houses and and price estimations.

Log House Siding Ideas

Many people dream of a cabin in the mountains with nature surrounding them and stunning views. Often, however, these homes are in areas prone to extreme fluctuations in weather, including sweltering hot summer days and frigid temperatures in the winter.

It’s challenging to know which siding to choose when building a new log-sided house. Consider the following, some you might not have thought of for a log home.

Natural wood

Real wood is traditional when people think of a cabin. It’s one of the most popular siding choices because it provides the distinctive appearance that only can offer. With modern finishes, natural wood can last longer and require less maintenance; however, the care and upkeep with this material is demanding compared to other options.

Natural wood is an excellent insulator, which helps to regulate the indoor temperature regardless of the season and despite the outdoor conditions. Wood and moisture don’t mesh, so this combination ultimately leads to a buildup of mold and mildew over time.

Again, the modern finish is popular because it helps to stave off issues like these for an extended longevity.

Wood siding costs range between $3 and $10 per square foot with a completed project costing between approximately $7000 up to $23000 for a standard-sized cabin. Visit – 6 Types of Exterior Wood Siding | The Family Handyman – for alternative exterior wood siding.

Concrete

Concrete is still a relatively new concept although it’s gaining favor in mountain regions especially. The material offers incredible features including safety, durability, energy efficiency, and an extended longevity. The material is designed to mimic the look of natural wood logs but has none of the required care and upkeep.

Concrete is nonporous, making it a great insulator for cold and heat. It is much better t resisting mold and mildew compared to wood. Concrete log siding ranges in cost between roughly $12 and $28 per square foot and a completed project can cost approximately $18000 to $42000.

While concrete is a higher investment than other materials, you will also see savings, such as substantially lower maintenance expenses and reduced utility costs.

Vinyl

Vinyl is versatile and cost-efficient with the capacity to tolerate the elements, protecting occupants from severe weather. The material is resistant to moisture, reducing the likelihood for mold and mildew growth or the chance of decay.

Some prospective homeowners have been hesitant when it comes to vinyl siding with questions on its resilience and concerns about the color selections. Color choices have increased greatly over the years to include vinyl logs to give a cabin-esque vibe.

Vinyl log-siding costs range between $4 and $11 per square foot and for a completed project roughly $6000 and $16,500.  Read here for vinyl log siding ideas.

Metal

Most people wouldn’t consider a cabin as having metal siding; however, modern variations come in a range of design and colors to avoid the industrial feel. For those looking for a log house, you would choose the metal log-sided design. The material requires minimal maintenance, is highly durable, and is impervious to fire.

Rust is a concern in wet environments or humid regions; however, the material holds up well to cold and heat with optimal energy efficiency. Log-style steel is the ideal choice when building a cabin. Costs range from $1 to $5 per square foot.

Final Thought

Homeowners have an array of siding choices when building a log-style house beyond the traditional wood. This enables them to achieve the objective they envision. Choosing the siding is a decision that not only impacts the visual appeal but the home’s durability and safety.

Concrete log-look siding serves as a testament to innovation in the home building sector, a combination of resilience and strength with the charm and appeal of natural wood. It’s the clear advantage compared to other siding materials.

Reasons To Consider Concrete for Your Log Home Siding

Concrete log siding is a premium choice for builders looking for high-quality, durability, and low maintenance materials for home construction. The siding is designed to have the appearance of natural wood logs without the drawbacks that come with maintaining traditional logs.

More prospective homeowners are choosing concrete as an alternative to wood log siding for its tolerance of environmental factors and harsh weather events. Wood is prone to pest infestation, warping, and rotting, whereas concrete resists insects, fire, and moisture.

The material’s design is versatile and customizable to meet individual needs and style preferences. The siding can be manufactured in varied colors, sizes, and shapes, enabling homeowners to have a unique look for their property.

Consider the following reasons for why you would want to use an alternative to wood such as concreted when building a log-sided house.

–    The longevity

Concrete is a highly durable alternative to wood logs. The material can last for decades without the need for significant repairs, premature replacements, or major maintenance tasks. Wood siding is susceptible to moisture damage and insect infestation. Homeowners must perform diligent maintenance tasks to prevent significant damage from these issues.

If care and upkeep is neglected, repair or replacement costs can be substantial. Concrete is resistant to these concerns and hazards such as fire, earthquakes, wind, and on. This gives homeowners peace of mind know they’re property is safe and secure.

–    The maintenance

Most people nowadays keep hectic schedules leaving them with little time to handle high maintenance tasks around their home. Many are hesitant in pursuing their dream of a owning a cabin due to the work associated with wood log-sided houses.

These need to be stained and sealed to protect the siding from the elements and pests regularly.

With concrete coming along as an alternative to wood, these homeowners can now consider building their log house since concrete is virtually maintenance-free. That not only gives you back your free time but save substantial amounts of money over time in home repairs, replacements, and overall care and upkeep.

–    The design versatility

Homeowners have greater design flexibility when building with concrete since the material can be manufactured in varied shapes and sizes compared to traditional logs. Concrete log siding is also designed to mimic traditional wood with a comparable texture and the graining.

–    The sustainability

Natural wood requires the harvesting of trees, which is not a concern with concrete log siding. It is a sustainable material and is environmentally friendly. You can recycle it at the end of its lifecycle. The material doesn’t emit harmful chemicals into the environment like other siding materials.

–    The efficiency

Concrete is an excellent insulator against cold and heat, saving from energy consumption and reducing utility costs. The material can help regulate the home’s indoor temperature for a balanced climate throughout the year.