Is White Pine or White Cedar Better For Your Log Home?

Hot Tubs and Luxury Log Homes

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 16:29:45 GMT

When you hear the words ‘hot tub’, what words pop into your mind? Did you say relaxing and soothing? If you said yes, science backs up those thoughts. WebMD tells us that the warm water in a hot tub widens blood vessels, reduces swelling and loosens tight muscles. A nice soak in a hot tub is also known to ease stress. And, if your hot tub is large enough for at least 4 people, it can also help you laugh away any tension in your life. For many people, hot tubs and cedar log homes are like wine and cheese; they complement each other perfectly. Here, we’ve put together a few things to consider if you want to add a hot tub to your cedar log home.

Should My Hot Tub be Inside or Outside of My Log Home?

The decision is up to you! A few points to remember for both options:

Inside Hot Tub Considerations:

If you want to have the hot tub inside, work with your builder to make sure your indoor hot tub room has proper ventilation and floor support. To reduce mold and mildew , experts recommend you wipe up little puddles of water that can accumulate outside of the tub. It’s also important to make sure the room is built with a moisture-proof wall covering.

A hot tub filled with water is very heavy so your builder will need to make the floor strong enough to hold the extra weight. Also, take accurate measurements so the hot tub can fit into the room where you want it.

Outside Hot Tub Considerations:

First, you need to figure out where you want it located. Many people enjoy jumping into a hot tub when it’s cold outside but think about exactly how far you would be comfortable walking in cold weather. That will help you decide where to put the hot tub.

Would you want it covered? If yes, consider placing it next to your log home so you can add a roof. Or, you might want to put it farther away from your home so you can add a gazebo around it. A discussion with a landscaper can also help you decide if you want to plant trees or shrubs for privacy. You can also use landscaping to provide shade or break the wind.

Also, think about the hardscaping that would surround the hot tub. Paying attention to all these details now will help you enjoy your hot tub for years to come.

What Material Should the Hot Tub Be Made Of?

Just like you have choices when you buy a bathroom tub, you have options for your hot tub. The most common materials include ABS plastic or fiberglass-enhanced acrylic. In general, fiberglass/acrylic is regarded as being the best choice since the materials are stronger.

How Do You Take Care of a Hot Tub’s Water?

A reputable dealer will take the time to explain everything you need to know to keep the water in your hot tub sanitary and clean. Here is an explanation of common water care options . Bromine and chlorine are the most common. UV rays can also be used to prevent bacteria from reproducing. Another option is to use a saltwater sanitizing system.

How Do You Find A Reputable Hot Tub Dealer?

First, look at how long the company has been in business. The longer the company has been in business, the greater your chance of finding accurate reviews about their service. It’s also helpful to see if they are on Angi or HomeAdvisor and read the opinions of previous customers. Young’s Hot Tub Sales and Service has consistently received high marks from customers. Plus, they not only sell hot tubs but they also service them as well.

Hot Tubs Enhance the Enjoyment of Cedar Log Homes

We’ve previously written about how grand entrances, skylights and designer kitchens can turn your cedar log home into your dream home. Hot tubs fall into that category. Take the time to think of all the possibilities and you’ll discover how to make your cedar log home as luxurious as possible.

Then, when you’re ready to turn your dream of building a luxury log home into a reality, contact us at Young’s Cedar Log Homes. We’ll be happy to explore all the options of creating a cedar log home that brings your family decades of memories.

The Truth about Cedar Log Homes and Insects

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 02:47:07 GMT

There’s a whole list of troublesome insects out there that prey on log homes built with “wet” woods such as pine and oak. Unless you know what kind of material to build with, your home’s structural integrity could be at stake. Step one to keeping your log home from becoming a very tempting morsel for insects who love to eat wood and make it their home is starting with a wood that’s naturally impervious to wood-boring insects. In this blog we explore what types of bugs could damage your log home, how Cedar stands the test of time and the best prevention methods to keep creeping, crawling, and flying things from causing damage.

Bugs that Love Log Homes

Wood boring insects are something every log home owner thinks about at least once. They feed on deteriorating wood, so this makes them a symptom more than a problem in and of themselves. These insects create holes and tunnel systems in your home's logs, leaving behind only a little bit of dust. Northern White Cedar combats these pesky issues with all its natural properties! NWC produces oils, which act as a wood preservative and helps resist insects. Within the list below, we cover the most common types of wood-boring insects you could encounter. Most Pine homes require continual ongoing treatment against rot, mold, and insects as it does not have the same properties as Cedar.

Carpenter Ants: These ants love living between the logs of a home where water seepage, condensation, and rotting wood are present. You often see these on trees lying down in a state of decay. These little guys don’t actually eat wood, but instead, chew it up and discard it–this leaves behind sawdust like material. The holes that carpenter ants bore are about ¼” in diameter, which is the size of a pencil. Multiple holes and tunnels of this size can do serious structural damage to the logs themselves however, carpenter ants may be a warning sign of a more serious problem.
Carpenter Bees : Carpenter bees love to use logs as a sanctuary for their large colonies. If you notice round holes about a ½” wide on the outside of your log home, there’s a good chance that an expansive tunnel system lies just beyond it. These large labyrinths can cause logs to become weaker and the entrance points invite water and moisture which results in rotting wood. If not taken care of properly, future generations of carpenter bees will continue to thrive and cause more and more damage. With a Northern White Cedar home, Carpenter bees will only tend to look for eaves and fascia.
Termites: The good news, is if you’re buying from Youngs, you don’t have to worry about these guys! These little bugs are attracted to moisture and love to feed on cellulose–which is an essential component of wood. The only good news about termites attacking your log home is that it’s almost immediately evident. In standard stick-frame houses, it can take years for you to realize that your house has a termite infestation. But in a log home, your logs aren’t hidden by layers of drywall, making it easier to tell if there are termites present. Typically, termites start on the outside of a log structure and work their way in, creating tiny pinholes in your structure and leaving a trail of sawdust behind.

Prevention Tips and Tricks

What if you build a log home out of Pine already?? Usually, just exterminating bugs is not enough to fix the problem. On top of extermination, you need to figure out why the bugs were attracted to your log home in the first place. Fixing those issues in addition to exterminating the bugs is your best bet. Below are some of the most common prevention tips for carpenter ants, carpenter bees, and termites.

Carpenter ants – Eliminating moisture problems and keeping stacked wood away from your home will reduce your chances of an infestation. Borate treatments are also helpful–they can be placed on the ground around your log home and stop infestations in their tracks once the poison is taken back to the nest.
Carpenter Bees – Covering the outside of your log home with thicker and heavier finishes will deter these bees from boring into your home. However, if you have existing holes caused by carpenter bees, dusting insecticides into the tunnel entrances and then blocking the hole with caulk or a plug is an effective solution.
Termites – To deter these pesky bugs from munching on your home’s logs, make sure there is at least 8” of distance between the ground and the first layer of logs. If the 8” distance is formed out of concrete, that's even better–as termites have a hard time scaling concrete surfaces. Another helpful tip is to spread barrier sand, also known as “termite sand”, around the outside of your home. It’s easy to find at your local hardware store and is relatively inexpensive. This sand will coat the bodies of any termites that are trying to make your home their next meal and will eliminate them, as well as any other termites they come into contact with once they go back to their nest.

Bugs? Not here

Insects of all kinds can ravage and plunder your home, and rob you and your family of precious peace and sanity. That is why here at Young’s we strive to educate our customers on what to look for and urge them to take precautionary measures to ensure their log homes last for years to come. When you’re ready to turn your dream of owning a log home into a reality, give us a call. We will be happy to help you create a peaceful and tranquil vacation home.

Are Cedar Log Homes Good for the Environment?

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 02:25:20 GMT

When considering building your dream log home, you may contemplate your environmental impact. From clearing your property to sourcing building materials, everything you choose can and will make a difference. Though there are an abundance of factors that go into building and designing a log home, on average log homes tend to be more sustainable than traditional stick and brick homes. In this blog we cover 4 eco-friendly benefits of log homes–to learn more, keep on reading.

Wood is Renewable and Sustainable

Log homes are built out of trees which can be re-planted and grown, making them a renewable resource. Not only that, but Northern White Cedar is an overachiever when it comes to reseeding itself, and the forest where it grows is actively managed to ensure high-quality products and sustainable practices. Wood isn’t a finite resource such as coal, which can be easily depleted. Because of its sustainability, wood makes for a perfect building material. Additionally, wood products require less energy to manufacture, and have the lowest impacts on water and air quality. Northern White Cedar doesn’t have to be treated with harsh chemicals like pine, and oaks, making this the most eco-friendly option and keeping our waterways clean!

Green Building Materials

Using wood ultimately reduces your carbon footprint–as wood contains carbon. Wood aside, most of the other building materials used to construct log homes are also eco-friendly. The manufacturing of these materials is far less harmful to the environment than the processes of conventional building materials. So, you can feel good knowing that your home can reduce your carbon footprint. In a report from the Edinburgh Centre for Carbon Management (ECCM), it was estimated that harmful greenhouse gasses could be reduced by 88% through the use of log or timber structural elements in place of conventional building materials.

Log Homes are Naturally Energy Efficient

Wood has natural heating and insulating qualities. Not only does this help you save on your monthly bills, you also help the environment because your home won’t use as much energy as a standard home. With that being said log homes are 30% more energy efficient than standard homes. For more details on the energy efficiency of log homes, check out one of our previous blogs here.

Better Air Quality

Because the wooden structure of your log home stores carbon and regulates humidity, it naturally allows for better airflow. The result of this is that log homes are healthier to live in. It also means that there’s no need for you to purchase air purifiers, HEPA filters, humidifiers or dehumidifiers. Not to mention these small machines require less eco-friendly materials to manufacture, and more energy to run.

Contact Young’s Today!

Overall, if you want to build a home that has less environmental impacts, is more sustainable, and can be a healthy home to live in, a log home may be right for you! At Young’s Cedar Log Homes, we are committed to building you your dream cedar log home and we are excited to get your project started. Contact us today for more information and to take a look at our layouts.

How to Find the Best Location for Luxury Log Homes in Western PA

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 20:20:08 GMT

Ask any real estate agent to name the most important thing to consider when buying a home, and the response will be: Location, location, location.

Where you build a home is one of the most important decisions you'll ever make. But, it can also be one of the most stressful decisions. After all, if you select the wrong paint color, it can be fixed. Pick a bad location, however, and that is a little more difficult an obstacle to overcome!

Before building a luxury cedar log home, you need to consider the same lifestyle issues that are applicable when building a traditional home. For example, if you have young children, the school district matters. If you work, the proximity to your office might be a consideration. If this will be a vacation home, look for land close to activities you enjoy.

In Western Pennsylvania, there are numerous options in the mountains or near rivers.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to helping you decide the best location for a luxury cedar log home in Western Pennsylvania.

Start by searching online. Several websites let you search for land listings. Browsing these can help you understand the possibilities. Consider using LandCentral , LandHub.com or LandWatch . These can help you figure out the various prices in different locations. While most people use Zillow to purchase an existing home, it also lists land that is available for purchase.
Understand zoning regulations . If you are looking to build close to a city, the land will probably be zoned residential. But, what if you want a more secluded location? Building in a rural area means you can enjoy breathtaking views and a slower pace, but you need to do your homework to prevent major headaches. Research the following before purchasing land in a rural location:

Does the property have sewer or septic connections?

Municipal water or well water hookups?

What is the closest electricity to the property?

Make sure the land is buildable . According to LandCentury , you need to check state, federal, and health department regulations. There could be complex environmental issues that make it unsuitable for people to live on the land. Or, there could be regulations regarding endangered species or wetlands. The land might look beautiful but it will be a waste of money if you cannot build on it.
Work with a reputable builder. To ensure the safety of your new construction, you must apply for a building permit. Here’s the link to the permit process for Pittsburgh, PA. Every municipality requires building permits and builders know exactly what is needed. Once you decide on the area, look for the specific permit details on the municipality’s website. A reputable builder knows the regulations and will take care of getting the necessary permits.

Consider an existing community . As long as you find a piece of land that meets all the zoning requirements for a house your size and your personal needs, you can build your luxury log home anywhere. However, it is much easier if you decide to build your luxury log home in an existing community

Ready to get started?

You have a lot to consider when you decide to build a luxury log home. Since we’re located right here in Western Pennsylvania, we can be a great resource for you. If you have any questions, please contact us at Young’s Cedar Log Homes. We’ll be happy to explain all the details involved with building your own log home.

Benefits of Buying Directly from a Cedar Log Home Manufacturer

Wed, 14 Jul 2021 17:30:35 GMT

Living in a log home is the ultimate dream. For many that dream is becoming reality–with over 700,000 log homes in the U.S. it’s safe to say log homes are becoming increasingly popular. If you’re interested in a log home, but need some advice before buying a kit from a manufacturer we have your back! In this article we cover key things to know and the benefits of buying directly from a manufacturer.

Manufacturers vs Builders

Knowing the difference between log home manufacturers and a log home builder is one of the most important things to understand before purchasing anything. A log home builder constructs homes from start to finish–handling everything from obtaining materials to putting finishing touches on the home. In contrast, log home manufacturers put together and sell log home kits. These kits contain all of the necessary building materials depending on the design. However, log cabin manufacturers DO NOT physically build the log homes for their customers. Instead, a third-party contractor must be hired to do that.

Do your Research

Right now, there are about 300 log home manufacturers in the U.S. and not all manufacturers are born equally. Matter of fact, the same thing goes for log home kits. Because of that, it’s best to do your research and perform checks on your chosen manufacturer. At the bare minimum, we recommend looking into the answers to the following questions:

Is the manufacturer registered with an association?
Are the logs and blueprints graded and stamped?
Does the supplier offer on-site assistance?

Benefits of Buying Direct

Control over the building process

Anyone who has built a home can tell horror stories of going over budget, construction being delayed and less than cooperative contractors. Such problems are foreign to the log home industry because of strict rules and regulations. With so much control over each and every process, homeowners reap the benefits. For example, manufacturers can purchase materials, products and appliances at a cheaper rate. In turn, passing on the cost savings to the homeowner.

Design Flexibility

If you didn’t know, manufactured log homes aren’t your standard run of the mill homes. Some of the designs are more elaborate. They can have porches, decks, garages, vaulted ceilings, chandeliers and more. Builders can also customize houses to a customer’s specific needs–want stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors and granite countertops? No Problem! Additionally, depending on the lot, homeowners can add beautiful lawns and landscaping.

They Appreciate in Value

Many believe that manufactured log homes will never rise in value. In fact, some say that their value will depreciate over time. That is just not true – a manufactured log home is just like any other home. When properly built and maintained, manufactured log homes appreciate in value just like your standard “stick built” homes. But, as with all housing, the value of home depends on a variety of market factors such as:

o The local housing market

o The community

o The price, age and condition of the home

o Inflation

Energy Efficiency

No, it’s not your imagination–log homes are more energy efficient than traditional “stick-built” homes and there’s some science behind it. In a previous article, we cover several factors related to energy efficiency that everyone should know before designing or purchasing a log home. To learn more, check out the article here.

Contact Young’s Today!

The Young’s Advantage means helping you with every facet of your project from finding the right piece of land straight through to the final touches. Your log cabin is going to be your getaway from the stress and anxiety of the rest of the world. Our customers are more than a number, we believe our clients become family. At Young’s, we are a company built on the foundation of family and community and we believe in integrity and quality. To fulfil your dream of owning a log home contact us today! After all, having the right partner is key to success.

Think Log Homes are Dark? Not With Northern White Cedar & These Beautiful Design Elements!

Wed, 07 Jul 2021 15:45:49 GMT

If you watch old movies, you might have the impression that log homes are dull, dreary and dark inside. While that might have been true back when horses were the only form of transportation, today’s cedar log homes are bright, light and airy. Here, we’ll review log home design elements you can use to give your home a fresh, modern loo k.

Embrace Large Windows

Many people position their cedar log home to take advantage of a magnificent view. It’s true; a wall of windows lets you enjoy a view of nature without having to step outside. But, that’s not the only benefit of this log home design element.

Natural sunlight is one of the easiest ways to brighten your living space. When you meet with your builder, also ask about skylights. If you want to maximize the amount of sunshine your windows bring in, add large windows to the side of your house that faces south.

Incorporate High Ceilings

The Guide to Cathedral Ceilings lists increasing the amount of light in a room as one of the benefits of adding cathedral ceilings (also known as vaulted ceilings) to a room. The other benefits include:

Giving the illusion of a larger space . Vaulted ceilings make a room feel larger and more spacious.
Making a room look more interesting . An unexpected ceiling adds a breathtaking touch to any room.
Adding a sense of grandeur . Cathedral ceilings draw the eye up and make a room seem more elegant.

Enjoy the Beauty of Light Wood

The color of your interior goes a long way in making sure your home doesn’t feel dark and dreary.

You can ask your builder to accent walls of drywall on the inside as well. This gives you the option to add a soothing or bold color that works with your style. However, many people love the fact that the natural color of a white cedar log home's interior is a light, pale shade of brown or tan.

Left in its natural state, white cedar makes a home bright and inviting.

When you look at the above photos, it’s evident that large windows, cathedral ceilings and the beautiful color of white cedar wood, creates a modern, bright and beautiful environment. Discuss with your builder which of these log home design elements you would like to incorporate into your plans.

Have More Questions?

From selecting the floor plan to deciding all of the features, building a home means taking care of endless details. While it can be fun to customize your home to meet your exact needs, it can also be rather confusing. If you’re interested in additional design ideas, click here .

Then, when you’re ready to turn your dream of owning a vacation home into a reality, contact us at Young’s Cedar Log Homes. We’ll be happy to explain how owning a cedar log home can bring your family decades of memories.

What Are The Benefits of an American Made Custom Cedar Home?

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 20:32:36 GMT

Independence Day means more than just picnics and fireworks. It’s a time to celebrate and appreciate everything that’s wonderful about this country. Obviously, it's a time to celebrate all of the freedoms we enjoy. Also on that list are the benefits of American-made products. Last year, respondents to a survey said that Americans are willing to spend more on American-made products. Why? Because American-made products are perceived to be of a higher quality.

Well, when it comes to building a home, you don’t need to spend more. Did you know an American-made custom cedar home can actually cost less than a traditionally built home? That means you get a superior quality product, for less money.

In this article, we’ll outline a few of the key benefits of purchasing an American-made custom cedar home.

Avoid Supply Chain Issues

At first, the news in 2020 focused on the devastating effect the pandemic caused families on a personal level. Everyone was concerned with the number of people who died from COVID and the images of long lines outside of food banks.

As time went on, however, supply chain challenges for U.S. companies who do business in China became apparent.

This was especially true for home builders. As the online publication Builder explains, “For the $1.3 trillion U.S. construction industry, its heavy reliance on the global supply chain makes it particularly sensitive to exogenous shocks such as the spread of the coronavirus.”

Luckily, the delivery times for American cedar have not changed as compared to conventional lumber.

Enjoy a More Economical Alternative

We previously wrote about the differences between white pine and white cedar for your custom log home. Another advantage is that pine is experiencing a shortage.

Think back to the beginning of the pandemic. Only essential businesses, such as hardware and grocery stores, could still operate. Many people headed to big box stores and bought lumber for home repairs and remodeling. Stuck at home, many thought this was a good way to pass the time. This is part of the reason there’s a shortage of pine. Pine is one of the most popular woods used in crafts and home improvement projects which has driven up the price for pine. There was a huge surge in diy deck construction as well. Pine has to be pressure-treated and treated for insects to be used, making production times even more costly for your wallet and the environment.

Plus, when you buy directly from a American cedar log home manufacturer, you can tap into the savings that come from a manufacturer’s ability to purchase materials, products and appliances at a cheaper price. That cost savings is passed on to the homeowner.

Receive Personal Support

Purchasing a Young’s Cedar Log Home means you have a chance to work with a log builder right here in Western Pennsylvania. This is especially helpful if you are purchasing a DIY log home kit. This eliminates the worries you might have. Customers have told us it’s comforting to know they can talk to a professional who’s local.

Support a Local Small Business

As an independent, small business, Young’s Cedar Log Homes provides a personal touch to all their customers. We’ll provide superior customer service, plus a high-quality product. In return, you’ll get a well-crafted, American-made cedar log home. Contact us today to ask questions or get more information on our plans and layouts!

Purchasing a DIY Log Home Kit? Four Things to Consider.

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 21:11:52 GMT

It doesn’t matter if you are building a traditional home or using a DIY log home kit, building a home means paying attention to endless details.

First, you must decide where you would like to build your home. Since log homes often have large windows, consider the views when selecting your property. Then, you need to make sure you can connect to local water and utility lines. Is your goal to build off the beaten path? If yes, you might have questions about Pennsylvania zoning regulations. This guide from the Penn State Cooperative Extension is extremely helpful.

Are you in the beginning stages of thinking about building your own log home? We will help you through the entire process and even give our DIY clients the opportunity to train on site with one of our veteran builders. The more research you do, the more you’ll realize why these packages are so popular. Unfortunately, the more research you do, the more questions you might have, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us so we can help you!

Here are the answers to the top four questions customers ask us.

1. How does the cost of a custom cedar log home stack up post-Covid?

While traditional lumber prices have skyrocketed 200-300% over the past year, the cost of cedar has only seen an 8% increase. This marks the first time in decades that building a custom cedar log home is less expensive than custom, traditional builds.

2. How does the kind of wood you use affect your house?

Northern White Cedar is one of the driest woods on the stump in North America, which makes these logs lightweight and easy to build with. You won’t need a crane to set the logs since you will find an 8’ log weighing 40-50 lbs max. This means you will have both lower labor costs and an easier build. You won’t need a crane until you are setting the heavy timber roof rafters. The low moisture content also means this northern white cedar is much easier to cut through. All the material is milled and run through the planer ahead of delivery so you don’t have to worry about all the sanding and prepping that can go along with more rustic materials.

3. How will I know how to put my log package together?

Our log packages come with a complete construction manual. You or your builder can follow this manual for every step of the process.

4. Does it matter if I buy a DIY log home kit from someone in another state?

If you live in Western Pennsylvania, one advantage of purchasing your kit from Young’s Cedar Log Homes is that you have the opportunity to work with a log builder in Western Pennsylvania and learn the ropes. Many customers tell us they appreciate the chance to work with a builder who has specific knowledge of building a log home.

Have More Questions?

We love educating customers about the joys of living in a custom cedar log home. Contact us, we’re happy to help.

Did You Know Cedar Log Homes Make Great Vacation Homes?

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 19:17:05 GMT

You’ve already crunched the numbers and know you can afford a second home. Now comes the hard part. Your current and future happiness lie in deciding what type of vacation home to build and where to build it.

With the right planning, a vacation home can become your oasis, a place where you feel all the daily stress melt away as soon as you enter? Here we will explain the benefits of building a cedar log home to use as your vacation home.

The Appeal of a Cedar Log Home

The minute you walk into a luxury cedar log home, the natural elements you see inside will help you instantly relax. Log homes can have accents of drywall and stone inside, which makes the rooms seem more modern. Rustic elements like exposed beam ceilings, stone fireplaces and enormous windows instantly give your log home all the cozy, happy vibes you miss in a traditional home.

It doesn’t matter how you decorate it; a log home’s natural and cozy aesthetic helps to turn it into an instant retreat.

Popular for Rentals

Are you planning on renting out your vacation home when you are not using it? If yes, that’s another reason to consider a cedar log home. According to Vrbo , there is almost a 25% increase in the demand for cabins as a rental property this year.

Due to the pandemic, many people have rediscovered the joy of vacationing with extended family. A cedar log home is a unique type of vacation home, offering the perfect setting for families to escape their daily pressures and reconnect with each other. The vacation becomes even more memorable if you have an outdoor kitchen, hot tub, or fireplace. If you can imagine it, you can incorporate it into your new cedar vacation home.

Designed for Your Specific Needs

If you plan to own your vacation home into retirement, you might want to choose a single-story floor plan, or incorporate all your main living onto a single level, so you don’t have to be bothered with steps. Perhaps you’d rather alter the existing floor plan to make other modifications, so the home is easy to navigate as you age. Ask us about how you can make your home more accessible and retirement friendly .

Since you can customize a log home, it’s easy to create a vacation home that you can enjoy for decades. You have complete control as to how to design your home. It’s even possible to have an elevator in your log home. Spend the time thinking of all of your present and future needs, then sit down with your builder to explore the possibilities.

Location Matters for Vacation Homes

Real estate agents are known for stressing the importance of the location for any type of home, but it’s essential for a vacation home.

Think of the activities you and your loved ones enjoy. Do you enjoy being on the water, either kayaking, fishing, or water skiing? Maybe you’d rather spend your time hiking or riding horses?

What if your family enjoys being on the water, and near thousands of miles of hiking and cycling trails? There are communities , like this one right here in Western Pennsylvania, where you can build your cedar log home close to both a river and protected state game lands.

Luxury Log Home Maintenance Tips

Wed, 26 May 2021 22:09:47 GMT

All homes need upkeep, though log home maintenance is a little different than you might expect. Regular maintenance on a cedar log home is different when compared to the required maintenance of a traditional stone or vinyl home, but in a lot of ways the maintenance is much less when you build with Northern White Cedar. With a little planning and a good schedule, maintaining your luxury log home can be a breeze. Here are a few ways to keep your log home strong and beautiful year-round.

Inspect your Log Home Once a Year

It’s wise to perform a visual inspection at least once a year. Depending on the location of your log home, you may be subject to some issues more so than others. Building with Northern White Cedar sets you up for success as you don’t have to worry about treating your log home for pests. The U.S. Forest Service reports that wood decays faster in the southeast and on the northwestern coast than elsewhere due to high rainfall and humid weather so be sure to check each year for any issues that might need to be addressed.

Clean Your Home’s Exterior

Contrary to popular belief, new cedar log homes need cleaning too, not just older ones. Regular cleaning of the outside of your log home can help decrease the need for repairs later down the line. Plus, if any repairs need to be made it’s best to start with a clean surface that’s free of dirt, pollen, mold, and other grime.

To properly wash the outside of your log home use a mixture of water and wood-friendly detergent. Start at the bottom of an area and gently apply the water/detergent mixture with a long-handled broom, let the soap do the work and don’t aggressively scrub. Work your way from bottom to top and in small sections to be thorough. Once done, use a low-pressure garden hose and rise from top to bottom. It’s recommended to avoid power-washing the logs as it can cause damage to the wood and stain finish.

Stain and Seal Your Cedar Log Home

Every log home needs a good quality stain and a topcoat. How often the process gets redone depends on where the home is located, in addition to yearly wear and tear and even the color or stain you choose. Stains and topcoats should not be applied yearly as a preventative measure; too many layers could result in peeling or chipping. Instead, you should stain and seal your log cabin about every 3 to 5 years.

There are two methods you could use to check if your log home needs a stain or topcoat. The first is to take a look at your home’s exterior after rainfall or after you’ve washed it. Does the water bead away? If so, your home’s exterior is in good shape and doesn’t require a new layer of stain or topcoat. If the water darkens the wood, the previous layer of topcoat is likely gone.

The second method is just as simple, and only requires a piece of masking tape. When your home’s exterior is dry, apply the piece of masking tape to one of the logs. Make sure it’s firmly stuck to the log’s surface, then pull it off. If more than 40% of the piece of tape is covered with the previous layer of stain, then it’s time to restain and reseal.

Are Cedar Log Homes Right for You?

If you’re on the fence about log homes or if you have more burning questions, give us a call at 814-484-5647 or fill out our contact form here . You’ll be glad you did!

Make your Log Home Luxurious with these Log Home Design Elements

Thu, 20 May 2021 21:18:06 GMT

Part of the fun of moving into a new home is deciding how you will decorate it. Most probably, you owned another home before deciding to purchase a cedar log home. Since this isn’t your first home, you have already developed your sense of style.

But are you wondering how you can make a log home luxurious?

That’s easy. All the extra touches that add a touch of elegance to a regular home—think high-quality materials, vaulted ceilings and massive windows—are available as log home design elements. In fact, the heavy timber roof systems make these design elements shine even brighter.

Here, we’ll give ideas you can use to create a breathtaking Pittsburgh cedar log home.

A Truly Grand Entrance

Your entranceway sets the stage for anyone coming into your home. What sort of message do you want your house to send? If you choose massive double doors with intricately carved details, a transom window above the doors and sidelights next to each door, your entrance will be beautiful and inviting.

These design elements also serve a practical purpose. The transom will help fill the home with natural light. Then, think about any built-ins you would want right at your entrance. Maybe a bench or decorative shelving?

Many people choose to have vaulted ceilings not just in the entrance, but throughout the home. Cathedral ceilings are one of the hallmarks of a modern, cedar log home. Combined with skylights, this definitely adds a wow factor to your home.

A Kitchen to Create Memories

Anytime a kitchen is planned, you need to consider how you will use the room. Do you love to cook and entertain? If yes, two islands and a professional stove could come in handy. Will you be cooking alone or with others? The answer to this question would affect the placement of appliances so you don’t bump into each other. Many of our homes feature open Kitchen plans to keep your cooking and entertaining space functional and inviting.

After considering the function of the room, you can explore the aesthetics. The easiest way to add a touch of luxury to your kitchen is to add high-end appliances, premium surfaces, and an eye-catching chandelier.

The National Kitchen & Bath Association conducted research to discover top trends for 2021. Their list for kitchen’s include:

Making a ventilation hood a decorative focal point in the kitchen
Motion-control/hands-free or touch/tap faucets
Quartz countertops
Dedicated device-charging and viewing capabilities
Emergency power for the refrigerator

A Spa-Like Bathroom

If the rest of the house is magnificent, it doesn’t make sense for the bathroom to be bare bones. For many people, this is the room to add endless upgrades. A light, calming color scheme and tasteful amenities can help a person feel rejuvenated and refreshed.

Do you hate stepping onto a cold floor when you get out of the tub? If yes, radiant floor heating will make you smile every time you walk in the bathroom barefoot. A free-standing soaker tub and a large shower with multiple shower heads, body spray massaging jets, a built-in seat and a glass partition are on-trend for luxurious bathrooms.

Other top bathroom trends according to the survey mentioned above include:

Voice-activated or hands-free faucets
Black and nickel in matte or brushed finishes
Bidet
Self-closing toilet lids
Floating vanities with integrated electrical outlets, charging capabilities and storage
Motion-sensor lighting

A Captivating Outdoor Living Space

It doesn’t matter if your cedar log home will be your primary residence or your second home; you’ll probably spend a good bit of time outside. Maybe you want an outside kitchen with a stone patio and a grill and/or smoker. Or you might get more enjoyment from an in-ground pool and/or a hot tub.

Browse Log Home Living for additional ideas and bookmark design websites to sort through all the possibilities. Once you’ve considered all your options, discuss your wish list with your builder and incorporate unique touches that will turn your luxury log home into your dream home.

Have Any Qu estions?

There are numerous things to consider when you’re building a cedar log home. Contact us with your questions, we’ll be happy to help!

Did you Know Log Homes are Energy Efficient?

Tue, 04 May 2021 20:08:29 GMT

No, it’s not your imagination–log homes are more energy efficient than traditional “stick-built” homes and there’s some science behind it. In this article, we cover several factors related to energy efficiency that everyone should know before designing or purchasing a log home.

What is an R-Value?

R-value is a material’s thermal resistance or how well the material resists the conductive flow of heat. The higher the R-value, the better the resistance; meaning the material has better thermal insulation properties.

In a solid log wall, the logs provide structure and insulation. The R-value for wood is estimated at 1.41 per inch for softwoods and 0.71 for most hardwoods. This means that a 6-inch softwood log wall (without doors or windows) has a R-value of just over 8. This compared to a conventional wood stud wall with an R-value of 14, seems like an inferior insulation system. However, when you combine the R-value of log walls with the benefits of thermal mass; nothing beats the efficiency of a log home.

Based on only R-value, log walls do not satisfy most building code energy standards. To obtain a building permit, the R-value of the log home must be addressed. In some cases, homeowners can also petition for a permit under regulations that take thermal mass into consideration when determining R-value. Though, some states have exemptions for log homes, while others recommend specific insulation techniques in order to meet building code requirements.

The Thermal Mass of Logs

According to a NAHB study, homes constructed with solid log walls are generally 2.5% to 15% more energy efficient than conventionally constructed homes. But how? It’s because of thermal mass.

Logs are like “solar batteries”, the sun warms them during the day, and they release that stored heat at night. During the summer, the logs’ mass slows the transfer of heat into the home, keeping it cooler longer. Thicker logs absorb and radiate more heat than smaller more slim logs. This is why it makes sense to build with larger logs instead of their slimmer counterparts.

How to Resist Air Leakage

Log homes are susceptible to developing air leaks over time as logs shrink, expand and contract. This can cause unwanted drafts and an increase in heating and cooling requirements. To minimize air leakage, logs should be seasoned for at least six months before the construction of the home. Some manufacturers will also choose to kiln dry logs before final cutting and shaping to dry them out completely.

Choosing a wood that resists shrinkage, such as Pine or Cedar, is also an excellent way to minimize air leakage. Some manufacturers also recommend using plastic gaskets and caulking compounds to seal unwanted gaps. However, these seals require regular inspection and resealing as necessary, to ensure they maintain their integrity over time.

Excited to Get Started?

There are numerous things to consider when you’re building a log home. Contact us today to ask questions or get more information on our plans and layouts!

Is White Pine or White Cedar Better For Your Log Home?

Fri, 23 Apr 2021 20:57:32 GMT

You’ve been dreaming about living in a luxury log home for several years. Now, you’re ready to stop thinking and start making plans. However, your head is spinning with questions.

Before you get ahead of yourself and start wondering how you will decorate your log home or the type of floor plan you’ll pick, you need to choose the type of wood you should use. After all, not all wood has the same features.

There are over 80 different types of wood species used for building log homes; in this article, we will focus on two of the most popular woods; white pine and white cedar.

Asking these three questions will help you decide which wood to use in your log home.

What about insects?

First, you must remember that wood is a natural material. For many insects, wood is simply something to eat. However, some woods attract insects while others actually repel them. When comparing white pine and white cedar, Northern White Cedar is the clear choice when it comes to many aspects of construction, including being naturally impervious to wood-boring insects.

How does Northern White Cedar prevent termites? Termites find the oil in cedar wood to be offensive. Which explains why you often see closets, fences, shingles and decks made from cedar. On the other hand, a pest control company reports that pine is on the list of the woods that termites enjoy eating. Dealing with termites can c ost up to $2,500 or more and can require tenting and filling the entire house with harmful chemicals. The structural integrity of cedar withstands decades of time and harsh climates.

According to the United States Department of Agriculture , northern white cedar “is resistant to decay and subterranean termites, it is easy to work with, glues well, holds paint well and has little dimensional change."

Instead of worrying about controlling insects, build your log home with northern white cedar, setting you up for a healthy, happy house from day one.

Is Cedar or Pine Decay-Resistant?

All trees need water to grow. Once they are cut, too much water can be very damaging. If you are building a log home, it’s best to pick decay-resistant wood.

The University of Massachusetts conducted years of research and field performance to determine which woods are naturally decay-resistant. Their list of woods considered to be decay-resistant includes all cedars, old-growth redwood, old-growth bald cypress, white oak and locust. While decay resistant, not all of these woods make for great homes due to structural integrity, weight and price, to name a few.

The rot-resistance of cedar makes it an obvious choice for exterior projects. It’s also the reason it’s so popular for log homes. Northern White Cedar is the driest wood on the stump in North America, and our air-drying process means the logs have minimal time or issues adapting to their new outdoor environment, wherever you choose to build. Less moisture means minimal settling and cracks.

Which Wood is Eco-Friendly?

Is it possible to build a luxury log home and be environmentally conscious? The answer is yes, depending on the wood you choose to build your home.

Northern white cedar lives longer than many other species, some living 400 years or more, and produce new seed crops every 3 to 5 years. White pine is also a fast-growing tree that can live an average of 200 years.

However, some people feel cedar is better for the environment because it doesn’t need to be kiln dried . The total harmful air emissions from wood kilns can be significant.

Have More Questions?

There are numerous things to consider when you’re building a cedar log home. Contact us with your questions, we’ll be happy to help!

Is White Pine or White Cedar Better For Your Log Home?

Hot Tubs and Luxury Log Homes

Should My Hot Tub be Inside or Outside of My Log Home?

What Material Should the Hot Tub Be Made Of?

How Do You Take Care of a Hot Tub’s Water?

How Do You Find A Reputable Hot Tub Dealer?

Hot Tubs Enhance the Enjoyment of Cedar Log Homes

The Truth about Cedar Log Homes and Insects

Bugs that Love Log Homes

Prevention Tips and Tricks

Bugs? Not here

Are Cedar Log Homes Good for the Environment?

Wood is Renewable and Sustainable

Green Building Materials

Log Homes are Naturally Energy Efficient

Better Air Quality

Contact Young’s Today!

How to Find the Best Location for Luxury Log Homes in Western PA

Ready to get started?

Benefits of Buying Directly from a Cedar Log Home Manufacturer

Manufacturers vs Builders

Do your Research

Benefits of Buying Direct

Contact Young’s Today!

Think Log Homes are Dark? Not With Northern White Cedar & These Beautiful Design Elements!

Embrace Large Windows

Incorporate High Ceilings

Enjoy the Beauty of Light Wood

Have More Questions?

What Are The Benefits of an American Made Custom Cedar Home?

Avoid Supply Chain Issues

Enjoy a More Economical Alternative

Receive Personal Support

Support a Local Small Business

Purchasing a DIY Log Home Kit? Four Things to Consider.

1. How does the cost of a custom cedar log home stack up post-Covid?

2. How does the kind of wood you use affect your house?

3. How will I know how to put my log package together?

4. Does it matter if I buy a DIY log home kit from someone in another state?

Have More Questions?

Did You Know Cedar Log Homes Make Great Vacation Homes?

The Appeal of a Cedar Log Home

Popular for Rentals

Designed for Your Specific Needs

Location Matters for Vacation Homes

We’re Here To Help

Luxury Log Home Maintenance Tips

Inspect your Log Home Once a Year

Clean Your Home’s Exterior

Stain and Seal Your Cedar Log Home

Are Cedar Log Homes Right for You?

Make your Log Home Luxurious with these Log Home Design Elements

A Truly Grand Entrance

A Kitchen to Create Memories

A Spa-Like Bathroom

A Captivating Outdoor Living Space

Have Any Qu estions?

Did you Know Log Homes are Energy Efficient?

What is an R-Value?

The Thermal Mass of Logs

How to Resist Air Leakage

Excited to Get Started?

Is White Pine or White Cedar Better For Your Log Home?

What about insects?

Is Cedar or Pine Decay-Resistant?

Which Wood is Eco-Friendly?

Have More Questions?