There are few things more traditionally American than a log cabin. It evokes visions of gangly Abe Lincoln splitting logs or the simple hand-crafting that built pioneer homesteads. Log siding is a great option for vacation homes in forested and mountain settings. Or--create a country atmosphere in the middle of the city.
Beneficial features of vinyl log siding
Patterned from real logs, vinyl log siding creates the colors, shape and textures of half-logs. It is considered premium grade vinyl siding as it's thicker (generally .044 -.055 inches) than value-priced siding, and maintains its shape beautifully due to insulation in the half-rounds.
Premium clapboard, Dutch lap, and other non-log vinyl siding costs much less than real or vinyl logs. According to the CalFinder.com remodeling site, real wood log siding can cost $3-8 per linear foot, which translates to $7 to $18 per square foot. Premium vinyl siding ranges between $3-7per square foot. Vinyl logs for a 36-by-48-foot home ranges from roughly $6500 to $7500.
Advantages of Vinyl Siding:
Vinyl log siding saves time and money in the long run. It shares many advantages over wood and other popular siding options:
- Durability -- built to last 25-50 years
- Versatility -- available in a wide variety of colors and styles
- It never needs refinishing -- just hose down annually.
- Vinyl log siding is impervious to rot and mold.
- Termites don't invade it.
- No scratches -- the color is built in.
- Vinyl siding is impervious to moisture.
New siding is a major investment, an important decision that must be planned carefully. Consumer Reports, in its Siding Guide, suggests choosing a good quality vinyl siding with an authentic wood look, making detailed measurements and getting a good installation. That includes tight flashing around doors and windows and a moisture barrier under the new siding if the old siding is being removed.
