Best Wood Options for Canadian Log Cabin Kits and Log Home Kits

It has become quite a trend building a sustainable and eco-friendly wooden home in a remote area. Views within the Canadian nature areas are gorgeous. Having a log cabin amongst trees, make one feel part of nature without disturbing the natural surroundings.

First-time builders should research the materials needed to build a log cabin before planning the interior. Luckily, manufacturers have created Canadian log cabin home kits that already have most of the parts needed to erect the structure.

As a potential future cabin owner, you should be aware of the different types of wood available within these ready-made kits. Because cabins have been popping up all over Canada, there has been quite the debate on which wood is actually the best to use.

Canadians aren’t restricted to certain wood types, and even though your neighbor might prefer a cedar wood cabin, it might not be your preference. There are loads of different options available, before you make your decision it’s best to consider all the options.

PINE

Pine has been used for centuries not only to build cabins but also furniture. It’s widely and commonly used throughout North America and is a very affordable log type.

Both types are easy to get ahold of. Because of their affordability and accessibility, it has become quite the popular go-to when creating different styles of log cabin home kits. Learn more about different log home construction styles in this article for clarification.

The most durable and commonly used types of pine available are:

-       Yellow pine: A hard wood that is pale yellow in color with darker grains. It has a high resistant level to decay. Perfect to use for the floor, furniture, and window or door frames

-       White pine: A yellowish brown and white colored wood that is lightweight with a uniform grain. Resistant to shrinking and warping as well as thermal against cold. 

OAK

One of the most expensive choices for a log cabin, but definitely one of the most durable options. Oak is a hardwood that is extremely strong and heavy. It is highly resistant to extreme weather conditions and decay or rotting.

What’s great about the oak tree is that it’s available in many different colors including a pale white-brown and a deep red with grains. It’s not common for log cabin kits to have oak logs, because it is much more difficult to work with and needs a big team to complete the construction.

Canada have a few oak forests that are utilized for furniture and log cabins around the country. Read more about Canadian forests here: https://www.weyerhaeuser.com/timberlands/forestry/canada/

SPRUCE

Spruce is a lightweight wood that is commonly used in Canada to build log cabins. It is very light in color and has a straight grain. The log itself can dry out very quickly to retain structure and stability.

The wood species is strong and fairly easy to work with. Unfortunately, Spruce isn’t as durable and long-lasting as other woods as it is not naturally resistant to rotting and decay. 

WESTERN RED CEDAR

Originally found in British Columbia on the Pacific West Coast, Western red cedar is one of the most sought-after tree species to build log cabins with.

It’s a red colored wood that is soft and aromatic with a straight grain. The gorgeous color resembles that of cinnamon and adds aesthetic value to the cabin. Using this wood species will ensure a rustic and cozy cabin.

The wood is a builder’s choice because it is naturally resistant to decay, warping, and rotting. Furthermore, the wood is resistant to pests, insects, and perfect for wet weather circumstances. 

Another cedar specie that can be used is Eastern white cedar.

Building a log home can be quite a challenge, luckily there are great companies available that can assist in erecting the entire structure from the floor down. Invest in not only a full cabin kit, but perhaps a team that have the right equipment, tools, and man power to successfully build it.

These manufacturers and wooden craftsmen will also be able to recommend the right kind of wood for the area you want to build in. It’s important that you consider weather conditions when choosing the log species. Other things to consider before picking a species will include costs, insulation efficiency, appearance, durability, stability, and decay resistance.

In many cases, you might have to wait a few months before certain types are available in your area. Transporting big logs cross country might take some time; it will be worth the wait.   

For those interested in investing in log cabin as either a retirement home, holiday/weekend cabin, or an extra structure on their property, are investing in a great future. Choosing the right type of wood for your Canadian area will ensure that the structure endures harsh winters and many family visits.