How Much Does Log Siding Cost?

Log Siding Prices

Overall, the average cost of log siding is $4.30 per square foot without figuring in labor or other construction factors. The price can go up to $9 per square foot or be as low as $0.70 per square foot depending on the quality and type of material. The average 2,500 square foot home will cost between $5,000 and $23,500 for log siding installation, or an average cost of about $14,000.

Homeowners must be aware that what log siding material they choose will affect how much they spend. Materials vary in quality, durability, thickness, style and amount of labor needed, while other details like trim boards, long tail corners, molding and vents will add to the total expense.

Average Log Cabin Siding Installation Costs

For a 2,500 square foot house

Log Siding Costs Per Square Foot

Log siding costs depends on the material chosen and its quality. Expect to pay between $0.70 and $9.40 per square foot or a total between $1,750 and $23,500 for siding alone, not including labor, for the typical 2,500 square foot home. Keep in mind that these prices are just examples and still have room for variation when it comes to quality, brands and make. To find out more about each one, check out our comparison of popular siding materials.

Traditional Wood

Cedar

The average price for cedar log siding is $3.50 to $6.00 per square foot for 2" planks and $5.50 to $9.40 square foot for 3" planks. Price increases when figuring in factory finishing and kiln drying. Cedar is a popular choice; although, it's a little more expensive than other traditional woods. It's a natural material that gives you the gorgeous look and authentic smell of timber, exuding the comfort of a remote woodland lodge.

Benefits

• Timeless look

• Unique knots and grains

• Great authentic wood smell

• Lighter than full logs

• Will avoid residual settling

• Can be installed inside and outside of home

• Look just like traditional cabins

• Great for climates with extreme temperatures and different moisture levels

• Great insulator= energy efficient

• No need to paint

Pitfalls

• Requires meticulous maintenance

• If not properly finished, cedar will be susceptible to rot, mold, termites and moss

• Must be refinished and stained regularly

Vinyl

Vinyl log siding materials cost $3 to $6 per square foot. It's is an attractive alternative that gives your home a log cabin look without the added costs and maintenance of authentic wood. For more in-depth pros, cons and cost considerations of this material, check out our comprehensive guide on the costs of installing vinyl siding.

Benefits

• Affordable alternative to organic materials

• Since it isn't organic, it will resist rot, mold, insects and mildew better

• Durable enough to be power washed

• Can look like any wood species

• Can be painted

• No need to be finished or treated before installation, saving you time

• Saves you money on periodic refinishing

Disadvantages

• Doesn't look as natural as natural wood

• Doesn't smell like natural wood

• Not a good insulator

Steel

Steel logs for siding costs $4 to $5 per square foot, though the market price of steel often fluctuates. Steel combines the strength of iron and carbon with the elegant look of timber. This premium material is a hardy alternative to natural logs. For more information, explore our complete metal siding cost guide.

Benefits

• Fire-resistant

• Recyclable

• Easy to maintain

• Fewer seams (due to longer sections)

• Durable

• Needs less maintenance than natural wood

Disadvantages

• Heavy, making it difficult to handle and transport

• Not suited for DIY

• Is often obtained by a special order

• Not a good insulator

Fiber Cement/Concrete

Fiber cement logs for siding cost $0.70 to $5.25 per square foot, depending on the quality. This alternative is made of reinforced concrete and is often called "faux" or "fake" wood. However, manufacturing processes have continued to make fiber cement a competitive alternative to natural logs. For more information about the costs of Hardie Board, a popular brand of fiber cement siding, consult our fiber cement cost guide.

Benefits

• Easy maintenance

• Fire-resistant

• Mold, insect, rot and moss-resistant

• Durable (after construction is complete)

Disadvantages

• Heavy, which makes it difficult to handle and transport

• Fragile during installation- not a DIY-friendly project

• Can crack during settlement of new constructions

Full, Half & Quarter Log Siding Costs

Log siding allows homeowners to spend significantly less compared to building a traditional timber home. Full logs average about $4.30 per square foot. Using eco-friendly alternatives like half or quarter logs allow you to save more, or up to 45% less. Half logs can be as low as $3.50 per square foot compared to quarter logs starting at $2.25 per square foot.

Half Logs

Half log pine siding is priced between $3.50 and $5 per square foot. Cedar half logs cost $5.50 to $8 per square foot. Also known as three-inch log siding, this type requires only half the amount of wood compared to traditional logs, but has the same visual log home façade.

Quarter Logs

Quarter log pine costs $2.25 to $4 per square foot, while cedar alternatives cost between $3.50 and $6 pers square foot. Also called two-inch siding, these are even better for the environment, using 75% less wood. They can also be installed using conventional frame construction. It's light and easy enough to be used in a DIY project.

Cost to Install Log Siding

A full log home costs $170 to $250 per square foot. That's an average between $255,000 and $375,000 for a typical 1,500 square foot house. Here's a breakdown of labor costs:

• Removal of old siding: $0.45 per square foot

• Installing new materials: $36 per hour

• Painting vinyl: $34 per hour

• Insulation: $36 per hour

The Pros and Cons of Log Cabin Siding

Using log cabin siding has many benefits and drawbacks that you should carefully consider.

The Pros

• Looks like full logs

• Can be put on conventional frame construction

• Save on labor compared to full log cabins (quicker and easier installation)

• Natural log siding is energy-efficient & eco-friendly

• The right materials raise your property value

• Are cheaper than full log homes

The Cons

• Natural materials need regular treatment and maintenance

• Natural siding is prone to insects, wear and tear, moisture and mold damage

• Some synthetic materials require insulation, which add to labor and material costs

• Metal and fiber cement are heavy and difficult to install without a professional

Tips for Hiring a Pro

Make sure the contractor is licensed, bonded and insured. Have a definite schedule in place before construction starts. Check out the contractor's reputation in the community.

For the best results, we recommend that you hire a siding pro for a safe and proper installation.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Log siding can be managed as a DIY project when you have experience and the right tools. However, it's best to hand this project over to the professionals if you're a novice or lack the right tools to do the job safely. If you're changing your home's siding from a different style, you'll likely need a permit before beginning the project.

Cost Factors

• Material quality and type

• Stains and finish if the siding is natural

• Removal and disposal of old siding (if applicable)

• Paint (if applicable). Find the price of paint for your home siding

• Building materials like saws, nail guns and insulation (if not included and provided by a pro)

• Quarter or half size logs

• Buying and building from a log home kit

Safety Factors

For taller homes, you need safe ladders and scaffolding. You'll also need safety glasses and helmets. Most importantly, do you have the skills, permits and enough help to do the job safely? Siding can require multiple people to lift, straighten, hold and attach. If you don't have the strength or numbers to do it yourself, research and find a professional service to do the job safely.

Pitfalls

• You'll need a permit from your local government to change the material of your siding

• You'll need expert knowledge in construction, including:

  • Attaching frieze board and sheathing

  • How to use tools for fitting, sanding, cutting and installing siding

  • Repairing places of the home where bugs and moisture have caused damage

• Improper installation can lead to expensive damage in the future