The world of pre manufactured log homes offers an incredible array of choices. You can choose a modular home, site-built home or a pre-designed house. Each one has its own advantages and disadvantages, however.
Modular vs site-built
There are two types of log cabins to choose from: site-built and modular. While site-built cabins are more unique, modular ones can be a more cost effective choice. Plus, you can customize a modular cabin to your specific needs.
Prefabricated or modular homes are built in a controlled environment and usually feature the same quality materials as stick built homes. Although modular homes do not look as nice as their stick-built counterparts, they are constructed with the same level of sophistication.
Modular constructions are designed to withstand rough handling and shipping. They can last for many years and are more durable than stick-built homes.
As with any real estate development, the price tag can be a big consideration. On average, site-built homes cost about $163 per square foot, while modular ones tend to fall in the $60 to $100 range. However, it is important to understand that the cost of a home is not just a function of price. You will also need to consider property taxes and utility expenses. The costs will eat into your monthly mortgage payment.
Choosing a prefabricated home is a major decision and the best way to go is to partner with a professional who can help you navigate the process. It is also a good idea to work with a realtor who will be able to compare the two types of homes for you.
There are advantages and disadvantages to both types of homes. For example, a modular home is more affordable and less time consuming than building a traditional house. Moreover, you do not need to worry about weather related delays.
The biggest drawback to modular homes is that you do not have the opportunity to inspect the finished product. Also, there are neighborhood frowns on modular homes, so you may have to put up with some skepticism.
When it comes to deciding whether to build a traditional home or opt for a modular home, the right choice for you depends on your personal style, budget and preferences. But the good news is that it doesn’t have to be that hard to find a competent log cabin manufacturer.
Oke Woodsmith
The Oke Woodsmith company has made it their mission to build homes that last. From the outset, they took the time to find the best woods and build a well-designed plan. They’ve also managed to do their part to protect the environment by using recycled materials. It’s easy to see why they’re considered a pioneer in the field.
Oke Woodsmith has been building quality timber-frame and log homes since 2004. Among the company’s recent projects is a nifty little log home built for a lucky couple from Detroit. Known as the Whisper Creek home, it features maintenance-free windows, a well-insulated exterior and a well-appointed interior. In a nutshell, this is an upscale version of your average rustic cabin.
The main challenge for Oke Woodsmith was building a functional design that withstands the weather, but the company was able to come out on top. A number of factors were involved, but the result is a well-constructed log home that looks and feels like a finely crafted piece of art. Some of the components were made in house, while others were sourced from local lumberyards. Using the best possible materials and techniques, the result is a beautiful, well-insulated home. Upon completion, the couple were ensconced in a spacious home that features central air conditioning, a backup natural gas generator and a pleasantly sized kitchen. Unlike many manufactured log homes, the home’s interior was finished in a manner that would make the proud owners proud to be a part of the family.
For the home owner looking to stray from the usual suburban abode, Oke Woodsmith’s pre manufactured log homes are a worthy alternative. Besides being made to your specifications, they come in a variety of sizes to fit every budget.
Levitt & Sons
Levitt & Sons were a construction company which revolutionized the housing industry. They built a variety of communities from the 1930s to the 1960s. The company was eventually sold to ITT in 1969.
The Levitt house was a symbol of the American dream. It was not just a home, but a social movement. This residential boom, which began with the creation of the Levitt house, changed the face of the American suburbs.
In 1929, Abe Levitt started his own company with his sons Bill and Alfred. He owned property on Long Island near New York City, and he dabbled in real estate.
The Levitt brothers began to build luxury homes. These were constructed in the style of Frank Lloyd Wright. Instead of hardwood or plaster, they used rockboard and radiant heat.
Levitt & Sons began building a series of suburban developments. By the late 1960s, it had built more than 140,000 houses. During their prime, they built thirty houses per day.
Levitt & Sons developed a community in Norfolk, Virginia. They also constructed Belair at Bowie in Bowie, Maryland. Their company purchased the historic Belair Mansion in 1957.
During the 1940s, they received a federal contract to build 750 houses in Norfolk. Normally, these houses would take four years to complete. But, Levitt and Sons streamlined the construction process to twenty-seven steps.
By the time the war broke out, the company had built more than 2,000 homes for veterans. They also built homes for the Navy in Virginia.
Levitt and Sons had been in business for 40 years when they filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2007. Despite the financial difficulties, the Levitt Corporation has been in operation ever since.
Although the Levitt house did not catch on in large numbers, its influence was felt throughout the second half of the twentieth century. Suburban communities that mimicked Levitt’s design have continued to be built.
Many Levittown homes have become tourist attractions. Levitt was also the subject of a cover story in Time magazine.
The Levitt family split in 1954. William Levitt took over the company. And the Levitt and Sons name was renamed to Woodbridge Holdings Corp.
Alpine Log Homes
Alpine Log Homes is a log home manufacturer that specializes in custom built log homes. They have been in the business for more than three decades. During that time, they have produced more than 36,000 log homes.
The company also offers a variety of floor plans. You can choose a one, two, or three bedroom home. Whether you want a rustic, Appalachian-style, or contemporary log home, you will find what you’re looking for with Alpine.
These log homes are crafted with the highest quality materials and construction methods. In addition to being durable and low-energy, they are environmentally friendly. As they are sourced from managed plantations, they are certified by the Independent Forest Stewardship Council.
They have an open concept design. A loft area looks onto the living space below. Their master bedroom suite is large and spacious, and includes a full bathroom. The second bedroom and bathroom are located between the two bedrooms. Another feature is their 8′ x 26′ entry deck.
Alpine Log Homes specializes in building custom, log homes that are ready for delivery. Unlike modular-constructed homes, which are constructed on site, these prefabricated log cabins are shipped in large pieces and assembled on the property of the home’s owner.
The company is based in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It has been in the business since 1959. Not only does the company manufacture log homes, but they also make custom designs, disaster units, and picnic shelters. They have a factory that produces over 36,000 homes annually.
The company’s products include doors, windows, roof systems, and flooring. You can see interior photos on their website. And if you’re not sure what you’re looking for, you can get personal advice from a log home expert. If you’re in the market for a new log home, contact Alpine Log Homes today.
When you decide to buy a log home, the best way to ensure you’re getting what you’re looking for is to read the manufacturer’s construction drawings. If you’re going to hire a contractor to build it, use a 1:3 ratio of materials to labor.
Whether you’re planning to build your own log home or rely on a log cabin kit, you’ll need to have plenty of storage space, a well-built basement, and adequate plumbing. Your log home isn’t just an investment – it’s an extension of your lifestyle.
