Log Cabin DIY Installation vs Professional Log Cabin Installation?
With increasing numbers of people choosing to work from home, log cabins are often seen as a viable and cost-effective way of gaining more living space without needing to move home. Uses vary widely, with cabins being fitted out and heated to be used as home offices, beauty salons or simply to provide additional entertaining space. Because planning permission is not required in a high percentage of cases, they can be purchased and installed quickly and cost-effectively.
Whilst delivered in kit form with comprehensive instructions, there have been a number of occasions where homeowners have been left out of pocket due to failed DIY installations, or through employing a contractor who did not fully appreciate the intricacies of building log cabins. This article aims to explore the options available for installing your new log cabin, delivering the best blend of cost-effectiveness and functionality.



DIY Installation

DIY installation could either refer to a homeowner who chooses to build their own log cabin, following the instructions provided, or a customer who employs a builder or joiner who is very experienced in their trade but not one that specialises in installing log cabins. It is important at this point to recognise that even the most experienced builders can easily make mistakes in the installation of log cabins. They may fail to appreciate the intricacies that set these buildings apart from their traditional bricks and mortar counterparts, such as the need to build the structure before installing the floor instead of the other way around. Indeed, many a professional carpenter has experienced issues installing log cabins when they fail to account for wood expansion, which results in ill-fitting windows and doors.
A common misconception is that a log cabin is essentially just a big shed, and this often results in people underestimating the installation process. They then become frustrated or cut corners when it takes longer or is more complicated than anticipated. Unfortunately, this often results in issues with the construction, ranging from poor heating and ventilation through to whole building instability, which can be incredibly dangerous.
When performed correctly by someone with the time and the inclination to get it right, a woodworking novice can build a log cabin. Anyone with a clear focus on creating a usable and attractive wooden building will take the time to measure twice and cut once, follow the guidance and instructions from the supplier and plan accordingly to ensure that they understand the critical order in which work must be completed to achieve a safe and stable structure.
If you choose to hire a general builder or joiner to install your new log cabin, ensure that you ask them about their experience in installing timber buildings of this sort and ask for a realistic cost and timescale that takes into account the common issues encountered.
Professional Installation
The alternative to DIY installation is to purchase the professional installation service to undertake the installation on your behalf.
In choosing a log cabin specialist to install your new log cabin, you will benefit from their years of experience and previous successful builds. You will avoid many of the common pitfalls associated with DIY installation and ultimately end up with a stable structure that will meet and exceed your expectations. The build is also likely to complete within a shorter timeframe as the professional installer will have a tried and tested schedule of activities that they can rely on, which, ultimately, will save you money.
A professional log cabin installer will be fully conversant with the common issues associated with these buildings and will be able to make any necessary on-the-job adjustments to the kit to account for groundwork issues or other unforeseen events that may otherwise complicate the build.

We believe that a log cabin offers an excellent and versatile addition to a home and are very happy to offer help and advice regarding the installation of any building bought from us, irrespective of whether you plan to self-build, hire an independent contractor or use our team of experienced installers. We will offer feedback and guidance at any point of the build and our free online installation guidelines will help you to understand common issues and identify any areas of concern at the earliest opportunity. This will assist you in making any necessary adjustments at a point where it is still reasonably easy to do so.
However you choose to construct your log cabin, we are sure it will provide many years of service and an invaluable additional space.