Log cabins are very cozy places; they’re perhaps even more ‘homely’ than regular houses. We’ve heard about lofts and second floors in a log cabin, but can we incorporate a comfy basement too?
Basements are possible in log cabins, depending on the kind of foundation. Adding a basement to your log home will increase its square footage and boost its value. The basement will offer greater space that can be utilized for various purposes, such as a guest room or by adding more storage space.
Basements are not as frequent in log cabins as they are in traditional dwellings, and they can be difficult to build. The basement, like anything else, has perks and downsides.
In this video, you will see how the foundations are laid down for a log cabin basement.
Let’s look at some of the pros and cons of constructing a cabin basement.
What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of A Cabin Basement?
Before you begin with a basement, you must first decide on the sort of log cabin foundation you desire. Placing a log cabin on a shaky foundation is risky and unsafe in the long run. The cost of constructing a basement will increase by at least 50%. Building a log cabin with a basement takes a lot of time and effort.
Other disadvantages may exist, to such as:
- They are neither appropriate nor safe for earthquakes.
- Water may leak into basements, causing damage and mildew.
- Going upstairs and downstairs will be difficult for elderly households.
But it can’t be all that bad. There are definitely many pros to counter those drawbacks.
- Extra room for guests and family
- Additional storage space
- May serve as an excellent storm shelter in inclement weather.
- Improve the resale value of your log cabin
- Can be converted into an entertainment area.
Can You Live In The Log Cabin Basement?
To begin with, you must have high ceilings that are 8 to 10 feet high. You will most likely have wiring, piping, and pipelines on the ceiling that will need to be concealed to improve the room’s looks. If you want natural light in the space, another must-have is a window. The light from the sun has a big influence and may perform miracles.
Cold and lower temperatures are another issue that might arise in the basement, particularly during the winter. As a result, good insulation is critical. You’ll need to boost the temperature in the basement so the people living there don’t feel like they’re condemned to a prison.
Will You Need A Concrete Base?
A log cabin can be erected on concrete, paving slabs, decking, or Rapid Grids. The best log cabin foundation is a flat and smooth concrete basis, but if you already have a pavement or decked area where you wish to locate your cabin, that is also a terrific option. The most critical aspect of any base is that it be level and square.
What Fills The Gaps In A Log Cabin?
Chinking is a chemical sealer that is used to fill log cabin seams. Chinking has a mortar-like feel and is quite malleable. Chinking is a type of caulk that is commonly used in the seams between logs.
Do Log Cabins Hold Their Value?
If you have invested a significant amount of time and effort in your log cabin, it is willing to pay for what you desire. All of this implies that most log homes are of excellent quality and worth, and they are well-maintained, so they do not deteriorate and have a strong profit potential.
What Is Chinking?
Chinking is an elastomer adhesive compound with a rough sanded surface that looks like old-fashioned plaster and is used on a variety of actual and fake log house seams. It is mostly utilized for decorative value in concrete logs and siding, but it also helps to keep out the weather.
Clinking is available in a variety of standard and bespoke colours that may be used to blend or contrast with the logs depending on the desired effect.
Is A Slab Or Basement Best For My Log Home?
Recent developments in slab building have enabled this technology to be used in a wider range of climates. Frost protected shallow foundation is a technology that employs thermal insulation to prevent the slab base from frost damage. This implies that in colder climates, a slab foundation can be employed.
However, if it is a local tradition to have a basement, it may make sense to add one for the benefit of your home’s market value. Slab construction, on the other hand, is an alternative if you are building a tiny cabin that does not require a basement.
Basements are more expensive to build, but they provide a lot of storage space. Furthermore, as opposed to a slab foundation or even a crawlspace, a basement allows convenient access to utilities. If your construction site is on a slope, a basement is generally the best option.
Because the foundation must be built below the low side of the slope in any case, adding a basement isn’t much additional work, and a walk-out basement is a quick and straightforward method to enhance the amount of usable space in your log cabin.
What Are The Best Floor For A Log Basement?
The most economical alternative is generally adhesive-backed vinyl tile, which you can install yourself. Basements and mud rooms are usually excellent locations for vinyl. You may also paint or apply an epoxy varnish on concrete for a quick and low-cost finish.
You have many options for cabin basement foundations:
- The concrete slab foundation, which requires the base to be graded before installation.
- Pier cabin foundation consisting of concrete cylindrical piers mounted in the ground to support the load
- Crawlspace log cabin foundation which has a perimeter wall.
Conclusion
In conclusion, adding a basement to your cabin might actually be a great way to turn your aesthetic fantasy into reality – just like in the movies! Just make sure the flooring is solid and there’s plenty of fresh light and air.
