The Irish housing crisis isn’t slowing down—and neither is the growing demand for faster, more affordable, and more sustainable ways to build. With planning delays, rising construction costs, and a shift in lifestyle since the pandemic, more people are looking for alternatives to traditional brick-and-mortar homes. Enter timber frame houses and log cabins, including innovative timber frame homes Ireland.
Timber frame homes Ireland are an innovative solution that meets the needs of modern living.
Among these options, timber frame homes Ireland stand out for their energy efficiency and sustainable building practices.
The increasing desire for more sustainable living solutions has led to a significant rise in the interest towards timber-frame homes and log cabins, particularly in the context of timber frame homes Ireland. This trend is not merely about aesthetics; it reflects a broader shift in societal values towards environmental responsibility and quality of life. For many, these homes represent a way to reconnect with nature, reduce their carbon footprint, and enjoy a more harmonious lifestyle.
With the introduction of eco-friendly building practices and materials, homeowners are increasingly prioritising sustainability. This has led to innovations in timber sourcing and construction methods, making timber-frame houses and log cabins not only appealing but also responsible choices for modern living.
As more people seek to live sustainably, timber frame homes Ireland are increasingly becoming a popular choice.
From government incentives to lifestyle changes, there’s a noticeable shift happening in 2025—and it’s worth paying attention to.
This trend includes a growing focus on timber frame homes Ireland that incorporate local materials and craftsmanship.
Timber frame homes Ireland are becoming a cornerstone of modern housing solutions, meeting both aesthetic and environmental needs.
Timber frame homes Ireland benefit from the sustainable management of local timber resources.
The government’s commitment to timber construction aligns with global trends in sustainable building. Countries like Sweden and Finland have long embraced wood as a primary building material, and Ireland is following suit, aiming to harness its own plentiful resources. This not only supports the economy but also signals a shift in how we perceive construction materials.
1. Timber is Taking Centre Stage
These homes often feature designs that maximise natural light, making timber frame homes Ireland bright and airy.
Discover the Benefits of Timber Frame Homes Ireland
Ireland’s government is now openly backing timber construction. Under the new “Wood First” policy, public buildings—including schools, housing projects, and libraries—are being built with homegrown Irish timber. This move supports local jobs, lowers carbon emissions, and speeds up delivery times for new homes.
Even Forestry Minister Micheál Healy-Rae has said that Ireland’s forests can meet this rising demand while supporting rural communities.
The growing acceptance of timber frame builds can also be attributed to advancements in engineering and construction techniques. Modern timber frames are designed to withstand the same stresses and strains as traditional brick-and-mortar homes, offering the same level of safety and durability while being quicker and less expensive to build.
This shift is not just about speed; it’s about creating homes that respond to the needs of contemporary living. For example, many timber frame homes are being designed with open-plan layouts that foster a sense of community and connection among family members. Features such as large windows are also popular, allowing natural light to flood the interior and reduce reliance on artificial lighting.
2. Timber Frame Builds Are on the Rise
Log cabins are not just limited to rural retreats; they are being embraced in suburban settings as well. Their versatility makes them suitable for various uses, such as home offices, artist studios, or even small rental properties. This multifunctionality appeals to homeowners looking to maximise their property’s potential without committing to larger, more expensive builds.
In addition to their affordability and quick installation, log cabins offer unique aesthetic benefits that resonate with many homeowners. The natural wood finish creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that is often associated with relaxation and comfort. For those seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, a log cabin provides an ideal escape.
In 2023, nearly half of all scheme-built homes in Ireland used timber frame construction. Fast-forward to today, and it’s clear this method is becoming the norm, not the exception.
Why the switch? Timber frame homes can be built in half the time compared to traditional builds, are more energy efficient, and create less waste on site. Projects like the one in Clondalkin, South Dublin—where Coillte and the local council have teamed up—are already showing what’s possible when you go all in on timber.
3. Log Cabins Are the New Must-Have
Whether it’s a garden office, a rural escape, or a staycation-ready guest cabin, log cabins have exploded in popularity.
And it’s not just a trend in Ireland. Globally, the log cabin market is growing at over 6% a year and is expected to be worth more than $10 billion in 2025. People are choosing log cabins because they’re:
Affordable
Quick to install
Naturally insulated
Ideal for remote working or renting
With rising interest in remote working, timber frame homes Ireland provide flexible spaces for home offices.
We’re seeing more people use them as backyard additions, home studios, or even full-time homes in scenic parts of the country.
As regulations surrounding planning permission evolve, the barriers to building a log cabin or timber frame home are being lowered. This is particularly relevant for those looking to create spaces that accommodate home office needs or multi-generational living arrangements. By simplifying the process, more families can consider these options without the stress of navigating complex regulations.
As regulations evolve, timber frame homes Ireland will likely see increased acceptance for various uses, including guest accommodations.
The appeal of timber frame homes Ireland is bolstered by their aesthetic versatility and energy efficiency.
4. Planning Permission: What’s Changing
For those seeking a sustainable lifestyle, timber frame homes Ireland make a compelling case in 2025.
There’s talk of relaxing planning regulations for cabins under 25–40 m², especially if they’re not used as a main residence. This could mean less paperwork and more freedom to build garden cabins, small homes, or granny flats.
For larger log cabins or timber frame homes, planning permission is still required—but companies like Timber Living help with site plans, drawings, and everything in between, making the process much easier for homeowners.
5. What This Means for You
Whether you’re looking for your first home, an extra space to rent out, or a peaceful weekend escape—timber living makes sense in 2025.
With a focus on sustainability and modern aesthetics, timber frame homes Ireland continue to attract attention.
Exploring timber frame homes Ireland opens up a world of sustainable living options that are both stylish and practical.
It’s:
Every design choice for timber frame homes Ireland can enhance the connection with the surrounding environment.
Each timber frame homes Ireland offers unique opportunities for creativity and personal expression.
Discovering options for timber frame homes Ireland can lead to exciting possibilities in home design.
Faster to build
Better for the environment
More affordable than traditional options
Timber frame homes Ireland present a chance to create a lifestyle that is in harmony with nature.
The growing popularity of timber living also reflects a shift in consumer priorities. Today’s buyers are more informed and value sustainability, affordability, and the ability to customise their living spaces. This has led to a surge in companies offering bespoke solutions tailored to individual needs and preferences, further enhancing the appeal of timber homes.
At Timber Living, we’ve been building log cabins for over 25 years. And today, more than ever, we’re seeing a growing number of people turn to timber as a smart, stylish and sustainable solution.
Exploring the possibilities of timber living can also involve considering different styles and designs. From contemporary minimalist aesthetics to rustic traditional looks, there is a variety of options available to suit every taste. The flexibility in design means that homeowners can create a space that truly reflects their personality and lifestyle needs.
Ready to explore the possibilities?
Come meet Valerie and Fergus in our Tullow showroom, open Monday to Saturday, and see for yourself why so many people are making the switch.
We got together to answer all your questions about building a log cabin in Ireland. Have a listen to the video or read the transcript below. But don’t hesitate to give us a call or come to visit us whenever it suits. We’re always keen to answer your questions about building a log cabin talks.
Do you have questions about building a log cabin?
Log cabin talks can provide invaluable insights and tips for your project.
Hi everyone, welcome to cabin talks. We are here today and we’re joined with Connor. Now Connor is here to help us delve into all the questions, most common questions such as how long it takes to build a cabin, the electrical work. So Connor, would you mind telling us a bit about the schedule and the preparation before buying a log cabin?
Preparation
Sure, sure there’s a lot to it I suppose, but basically once you find the cabin that you’re interested in, and obviously you come down to our showrooms, we go through all the ins and outs and anything you see can be adjusted: change of windows, bigger rooms, all that. But once you have decided on what you want, we look for 4,000 euro deposit and then we put things into production, we give you a contract, we sign it, you sign it, and in 10 weeks we can have that on site. So before we get there, you need to have concrete base built and we’ll give you specific dimensions on that base, that base is gonna be a little bit smaller than the timber cabin itself, because the cabin, it has to overhang. The biggest thing with making a cabin last is that you don’t have water pooling underneath. Right. Really important. Once that’s done, you’re ready to go.
Sure, sure there’s a lot to it I suppose, but basically once you find the cabin that you’re interested in, and obviously you come down to our showrooms, we go through all the ins and outs and anything you see can be adjusted: change of windows, bigger rooms, all that. But once you have decided on what you want, we look for 4,000 euro deposit and then we put things into production, we give you a contract, we sign it, you sign it, and in 10 weeks we can have that on site. So before we get there, you need to have concrete base built and we’ll give you specific dimensions on that base, that base is gonna be a little bit smaller than the timber cabin itself, because the cabin, it has to overhang. The biggest thing with making a cabin last is that you don’t have water pooling underneath. Right. Really important. Once that’s done, you’re ready to go.
Building schedule
We’ll be there for, depending on the size of the cabin, probably three days to build the outside of the cabin, walls, roof. Only three days. Three days. Wow. All the work is done in the factory really, so it’s just a matter of putting the parts together.
So we put the outside walls, ceiling boards, and doors and windows, and we go away then and you have a week or 10 days to organize your plumber and electrician to do their first fix, pipes and wires. Once they’re done, we can come back then, do all of the insulation, put in the floors, walls, roof cover, and then we’re done. And that’s another three days, four days, depending on the size of the cabin.
We’ll be there for, depending on the size of the cabin, probably three days to build the outside of the cabin, walls, roof. Only three days. Three days. Wow. All the work is done in the factory really, so it’s just a matter of putting the parts together.
So we put the outside walls, ceiling boards, and doors and windows, and we go away then and you have a week or 10 days to organize your plumber and electrician to do their first fix, pipes and wires. Once they’re done, we can come back then, do all of the insulation, put in the floors, walls, roof cover, and then we’re done. And that’s another three days, four days, depending on the size of the cabin.
Financing and builder details
Going back to the 4,000 deposit, I’m interested about this. So after the 4,000 deposit, what happens? You have to pay a full payment after that, or can you pay an installment?
Well, the first thing we should say is that a 4,000 deposit is not a big deposit compared to a lot of companies that look for 50%. So we’d like to think we’re generating a bit of trust there. But after that then, we arrive and there’s three payments to be made. The remainder that’s left,
we look for a payment when we arrive on site, a payment after the first three days when we, what we call, we reach ridge height, and then a final payment when we’re finished. Okay, thanks for clearing that up. And also in terms of the plumbing and electricity, I am a bit confused about that. So I buy my cabin and what do I do? Do I know a plumber? Do I have to find a plumber? Well, usually if you don’t have a plumber or electricity, we may be, depending on where you’re located, we may have contacts there. It’s pretty straightforward.
You need a builder, a plumber and an electrician. And what the builder will do is put in the base, but we’ll also put in a path probably up to the cabin. And underneath that path often, we’ll bring in the conduits for the electricity,
bring in the water supply and bring out the grey water and the sewage to wherever it’s going. So those groundworks are important. And then after that, your plumber, it’s important to set the dates with your plumber and electrician to say that you have a window. And if you have seven days, tell them you have three days. Okay. So you’ve got to be here on the day. And they’re very good, they understand. And the thing about a log cabin is oftentimes if they haven’t done one, they’re interested. So they’ll be keen or if they have done one, they know it’s very straightforward. There’s no chasing of walls for wires or anything like that. It’s very open. It’s a quick day. It’s indoors. So there’s no weather which can be enticing as well, depending on the time of year. So, but the electricity and plumber, very straightforward.
Well, the first thing we should say is that a 4,000 deposit is not a big deposit compared to a lot of companies that look for 50%. So we’d like to think we’re generating a bit of trust there. But after that then, we arrive and there’s three payments to be made. The remainder that’s left,
we look for a payment when we arrive on site, a payment after the first three days when we, what we call, we reach ridge height, and then a final payment when we’re finished. Okay, thanks for clearing that up. And also in terms of the plumbing and electricity, I am a bit confused about that. So I buy my cabin and what do I do? Do I know a plumber? Do I have to find a plumber? Well, usually if you don’t have a plumber or electricity, we may be, depending on where you’re located, we may have contacts there. It’s pretty straightforward.
You need a builder, a plumber and an electrician. And what the builder will do is put in the base, but we’ll also put in a path probably up to the cabin. And underneath that path often, we’ll bring in the conduits for the electricity,
bring in the water supply and bring out the grey water and the sewage to wherever it’s going. So those groundworks are important. And then after that, your plumber, it’s important to set the dates with your plumber and electrician to say that you have a window. And if you have seven days, tell them you have three days. Okay. So you’ve got to be here on the day. And they’re very good, they understand. And the thing about a log cabin is oftentimes if they haven’t done one, they’re interested. So they’ll be keen or if they have done one, they know it’s very straightforward. There’s no chasing of walls for wires or anything like that. It’s very open. It’s a quick day. It’s indoors. So there’s no weather which can be enticing as well, depending on the time of year. So, but the electricity and plumber, very straightforward.
Okay. So say for example, I have a big hill in my garden, a big lump of grass. And I just want to put a cabin there. Who do I go to first? Do I go to my builder and say, can you take this out? Or do I come to you and show you the land? What do I do? Well, really that’s the builder’s work. That’s the builder’s work.
Usually if you come to see us at any of our showrooms, bring a video, bring a video up, do a 360 of the garden shows where you’re going.
Anything can be done. You can dig into ground or you can raise up ground, whatever you have to think about where your septic tank is going and fall. Even that can be overcome. But yeah, bring a video and that’s the simplest thing. Okay. Also I live up a mountain and the road, it’s a bit small, the lane is a beaten track. Can you get up there? You’ll be amazed. And we always say, if the cement truck can get up there, we can get up there. And I’ve seen sites and you would think you wouldn’t be able to push a pram up that hill. Right. And they’ll get there around, they’ll get the concrete up there. If the concrete can go in, you see our stuff comes, it’s drop logs. So each plank, if you want to call them a log, is done individually. So we deliver on an Arctic with a forklift and then we take separate loads up. We don’t have to go up with the Arctic. So that’s not a problem.
Even if there’s a farmer with a trailer or whatever, but the lads will carry a distance too. Yeah, it’s not a problem. Not a problem. Okay, love to hear that.
Okay. So say for example, I have a big hill in my garden, a big lump of grass. And I just want to put a cabin there. Who do I go to first? Do I go to my builder and say, can you take this out? Or do I come to you and show you the land? What do I do? Well, really that’s the builder’s work. That’s the builder’s work.
Usually if you come to see us at any of our showrooms, bring a video, bring a video up, do a 360 of the garden shows where you’re going.
Anything can be done. You can dig into ground or you can raise up ground, whatever you have to think about where your septic tank is going and fall. Even that can be overcome. But yeah, bring a video and that’s the simplest thing. Okay. Also I live up a mountain and the road, it’s a bit small, the lane is a beaten track. Can you get up there? You’ll be amazed. And we always say, if the cement truck can get up there, we can get up there. And I’ve seen sites and you would think you wouldn’t be able to push a pram up that hill. Right. And they’ll get there around, they’ll get the concrete up there. If the concrete can go in, you see our stuff comes, it’s drop logs. So each plank, if you want to call them a log, is done individually. So we deliver on an Arctic with a forklift and then we take separate loads up. We don’t have to go up with the Arctic. So that’s not a problem.
Even if there’s a farmer with a trailer or whatever, but the lads will carry a distance too. Yeah, it’s not a problem. Not a problem. Okay, love to hear that.
The Housing Crisis
And also for young couples in Ireland, there’s less and less homes available. There’s less renting options available. So what would you recommend for a young couple starting out? They’re looking to buy a cabin. What sort of cases have you worked with before?
Well, obviously that happens an awful lot. It’s a big part of our business. People are putting cabins and gardens on farms and that sort of thing. And what I always say is, obviously you need to have the cabin suitable for your use. So like the Limerick cabin, for instance, the two bed, I often suggest that they put a meter onto the end to make the bedroom bigger. I just mentioned that because you can do that. We have one bed, two beds, three beds. It depends on your budget and your needs. But what I would really important is to think not just about solving the initial problem because that cabin is gonna be there for 60 years. Or longer, it can last a hundred years. So why not, when your son or daughter moves on, let’s say, then you can Airbnb it or you can rent it out on long-term, which would be easier. So set it up so that it’s separate. So that if somebody is renting that they’re not in your back, in your kitchen window. If you can do that, then it’s a great investment.
Well, obviously that happens an awful lot. It’s a big part of our business. People are putting cabins and gardens on farms and that sort of thing. And what I always say is, obviously you need to have the cabin suitable for your use. So like the Limerick cabin, for instance, the two bed, I often suggest that they put a meter onto the end to make the bedroom bigger. I just mentioned that because you can do that. We have one bed, two beds, three beds. It depends on your budget and your needs. But what I would really important is to think not just about solving the initial problem because that cabin is gonna be there for 60 years. Or longer, it can last a hundred years. So why not, when your son or daughter moves on, let’s say, then you can Airbnb it or you can rent it out on long-term, which would be easier. So set it up so that it’s separate. So that if somebody is renting that they’re not in your back, in your kitchen window. If you can do that, then it’s a great investment.
So you’ve seen people use it in terms of property investment like Airbnb’s. Absolutely, yeah. You’ve seen it used for that as well, so that’s great. So another question that we get very frequently is, how long does a log cabin last?
Well, it’s a good question and a log cabin can last a hundred years. We have a video on the website of Derma Bannon saying that timber buildings can last a hundred years. Wow. The important thing is that they’re built well. Yes. Built properly and they’re treated properly. So as I mentioned before, it has to be up off the ground and there’s no way that water can pool underneath. That’s, I’ve seen garden cabins and people putting them on patios. That’s a disaster, so gotta be raised up. After that, then it’s gotta be treated well. So we recommend Sikans, which is S-I-K-K-E-N-S. It’s a really good, it’s a stain, not a paint. You get all sorts of colors in it, it’s not a problem. But it’s a very well formulated product. You gotta apply it every four years or so. And once you do that, and once you make sure that there’s no dirt banked up against your timber, that sort of thing, very straightforward stuff, your cabin’s gonna last. So my cabin doesn’t have to look like a log cabin. I can actually paint this a color, a block color. For sure, yeah. We have samples on the website, blues and grays and all sorts of different colors. Yeah, yeah, they’re all available. And they, some of them look, well, they all look great. It’s down to taste, and a lot of people like the natural. The natural. Pine or the oak color. And other people wanna go for something more striking. So if I paint my cabin a block color, do I need to repaint that every year to maintain the durability of the wood? Does it lessen the quality of the wood? What would you recommend? No, no, well, it maintains the wood very well. It’s every four years. Every four years. And what it does is, because it’s a stain, it doesn’t seal the outside, and that’s important. So when rain falls on it, it stops the rain from soaking in. Rain runs down off it, which is important. But then also it lets the product breath. Timber is a natural product.
I mean, people worry about, oh, will a timber building last? Well, they make boats out of timber, you know, and they last. So let’s not. Pirates made it work. Yeah.
Boats are made out of timber, they work. You know, if it’s built properly, and it’s treated properly, it will last. And if you just go to Europe, I saw a building in France, and it was 500 years old. It’s timber. Wow. You know? So you’re saying I can’t just go into woodies and pick up a tin of paint and start painting my cabin. What would happen if I painted it with a standard paint? Why do I have to use these? Well, you can use paint.
You can use paint, but we certainly don’t recommend it because what happens is that seals the wood, and wood needs to breathe. It’s a natural product. Okay, yes. People worry about, you know, the Irish climate. Well, one good thing about the Irish climate when it comes to timber is that it’s windy, and it dries. So, you know, something that people know doesn’t occur to people, but wind dries. But the wood is breathable. Yeah, yeah. And as I say, you know, timber has been used as a building product. It has been used. Yeah. It has worked. And it’s just we’re not that familiar with it in Ireland. Yes. But I know in Boyle, where I live, there’s a timber building built in the 60s. It’s the old golf club. Wow, really? Clubhouse, yeah. Still there, you know, people live in it. Ooh, ooh. Yeah, all there. So you have timber last, absolutely. Brilliant. And these are double walls in our residential cabins, too, which is important. You know, if you’re in a residential cabin, you have to have a double wall, unless when you go for the Scandinavian heavy log cabins, which are, you know, six or eight inches. But with us, we have 45 mil on the outside, 30 mil on the inside, and, you know, four inches or 100 mil of insulation, at least. And then, yeah, it’s a perfectly good way of building a building that’s gonna last a lifetime.
Well, it’s a good question and a log cabin can last a hundred years. We have a video on the website of Derma Bannon saying that timber buildings can last a hundred years. Wow. The important thing is that they’re built well. Yes. Built properly and they’re treated properly. So as I mentioned before, it has to be up off the ground and there’s no way that water can pool underneath. That’s, I’ve seen garden cabins and people putting them on patios. That’s a disaster, so gotta be raised up. After that, then it’s gotta be treated well. So we recommend Sikans, which is S-I-K-K-E-N-S. It’s a really good, it’s a stain, not a paint. You get all sorts of colors in it, it’s not a problem. But it’s a very well formulated product. You gotta apply it every four years or so. And once you do that, and once you make sure that there’s no dirt banked up against your timber, that sort of thing, very straightforward stuff, your cabin’s gonna last. So my cabin doesn’t have to look like a log cabin. I can actually paint this a color, a block color. For sure, yeah. We have samples on the website, blues and grays and all sorts of different colors. Yeah, yeah, they’re all available. And they, some of them look, well, they all look great. It’s down to taste, and a lot of people like the natural. The natural. Pine or the oak color. And other people wanna go for something more striking. So if I paint my cabin a block color, do I need to repaint that every year to maintain the durability of the wood? Does it lessen the quality of the wood? What would you recommend? No, no, well, it maintains the wood very well. It’s every four years. Every four years. And what it does is, because it’s a stain, it doesn’t seal the outside, and that’s important. So when rain falls on it, it stops the rain from soaking in. Rain runs down off it, which is important. But then also it lets the product breath. Timber is a natural product.
I mean, people worry about, oh, will a timber building last? Well, they make boats out of timber, you know, and they last. So let’s not. Pirates made it work. Yeah.
Boats are made out of timber, they work. You know, if it’s built properly, and it’s treated properly, it will last. And if you just go to Europe, I saw a building in France, and it was 500 years old. It’s timber. Wow. You know? So you’re saying I can’t just go into woodies and pick up a tin of paint and start painting my cabin. What would happen if I painted it with a standard paint? Why do I have to use these? Well, you can use paint.
You can use paint, but we certainly don’t recommend it because what happens is that seals the wood, and wood needs to breathe. It’s a natural product. Okay, yes. People worry about, you know, the Irish climate. Well, one good thing about the Irish climate when it comes to timber is that it’s windy, and it dries. So, you know, something that people know doesn’t occur to people, but wind dries. But the wood is breathable. Yeah, yeah. And as I say, you know, timber has been used as a building product. It has been used. Yeah. It has worked. And it’s just we’re not that familiar with it in Ireland. Yes. But I know in Boyle, where I live, there’s a timber building built in the 60s. It’s the old golf club. Wow, really? Clubhouse, yeah. Still there, you know, people live in it. Ooh, ooh. Yeah, all there. So you have timber last, absolutely. Brilliant. And these are double walls in our residential cabins, too, which is important. You know, if you’re in a residential cabin, you have to have a double wall, unless when you go for the Scandinavian heavy log cabins, which are, you know, six or eight inches. But with us, we have 45 mil on the outside, 30 mil on the inside, and, you know, four inches or 100 mil of insulation, at least. And then, yeah, it’s a perfectly good way of building a building that’s gonna last a lifetime.
Building a one bed log cabin
And about the one bed cabin, because this is a cabin we get asked about a lot, is that considered a residential cabin, and would that have the double wall?
Oh, absolutely, yeah. If it’s got a bedroom in it, well, I mean, we can build it for you, a single wall, but we would not recommend it. We really need the double wall if we’re gonna be sleeping in a cabin. Okay, so– Living in a full zone, yeah. So a garden cabin would just have the single wall structure, is that? Yeah, the garden cabin is really, you know, for an office playroom, that sort of thing, you can sleep in a garden cabin for a couple of nights. In the winter, it’s not going to hold the heat as well as a double wall, it’s as simple as that, you know? It’s still 45 mil of timber, so if you, and I know of a particular friend of mine, and he runs therapy sessions in his single wall log cabin, and he lights a big fire, and the ambiance of the timber walls and the fire and all that, it’s very soothing.
Oh, absolutely, yeah. If it’s got a bedroom in it, well, I mean, we can build it for you, a single wall, but we would not recommend it. We really need the double wall if we’re gonna be sleeping in a cabin. Okay, so– Living in a full zone, yeah. So a garden cabin would just have the single wall structure, is that? Yeah, the garden cabin is really, you know, for an office playroom, that sort of thing, you can sleep in a garden cabin for a couple of nights. In the winter, it’s not going to hold the heat as well as a double wall, it’s as simple as that, you know? It’s still 45 mil of timber, so if you, and I know of a particular friend of mine, and he runs therapy sessions in his single wall log cabin, and he lights a big fire, and the ambiance of the timber walls and the fire and all that, it’s very soothing.
Putting a stove into a log cabin
So a stove or a literal fire? Stove works really well in a log cabin. There’s something about the radiant heat from the stove and the timber and–
Okay. It’s very nice if you’re looking to, you know, for like a garden getaway, you know, TV, glass of wine, stove, you know? So if you’re a business owner and you want to have meetings in your cabin, you have the option of having a single wall, a double wall, the price range, what sort of difference? Well, it’s very hard to say, but you have to think about it, if you’re putting in a double wall, you’re putting in two walls instead of one, you’re putting in, well, we always have insulation in the roof and the floors, but the walls are bigger, so I mean, if you’re looking at a cabin that’s 10,000, it’s very hard to say. Okay. Four or five thousand extra depends on a lot of things. So you’d recommend that they come with the idea and we can really customize it to their specific needs. But we do find people working in cabins. There’s no need for the double wall, we never get really good complaints about it. Your heated door would be higher if you have a single wall. Yes.
But with the stove, it really– Get that stove in there. It’s a great job, yeah. Everybody start falling asleep in the middle of the meeting. You gotta get down here and see it all for yourself, the quality and the craftsmanship. We are just saving time, saving you time, so come down and see it for yourself. Tullow, cork and Boyle.
So a stove or a literal fire? Stove works really well in a log cabin. There’s something about the radiant heat from the stove and the timber and–
Okay. It’s very nice if you’re looking to, you know, for like a garden getaway, you know, TV, glass of wine, stove, you know? So if you’re a business owner and you want to have meetings in your cabin, you have the option of having a single wall, a double wall, the price range, what sort of difference? Well, it’s very hard to say, but you have to think about it, if you’re putting in a double wall, you’re putting in two walls instead of one, you’re putting in, well, we always have insulation in the roof and the floors, but the walls are bigger, so I mean, if you’re looking at a cabin that’s 10,000, it’s very hard to say. Okay. Four or five thousand extra depends on a lot of things. So you’d recommend that they come with the idea and we can really customize it to their specific needs. But we do find people working in cabins. There’s no need for the double wall, we never get really good complaints about it. Your heated door would be higher if you have a single wall. Yes.
But with the stove, it really– Get that stove in there. It’s a great job, yeah. Everybody start falling asleep in the middle of the meeting. You gotta get down here and see it all for yourself, the quality and the craftsmanship. We are just saving time, saving you time, so come down and see it for yourself. Tullow, cork and Boyle.
We asked our resident expert why Norway spruce is such a good building material and here is what we got in response.
Norway Spruce – excellent timber for building
Norway spruce (*Picea abies*) is highly valued as a building material due to a combination of properties that make it versatile, efficient, and sustainable. Here’s a structured overview of its key advantages:
1. Strength-to-Weight Ratio
– Norway spruce offers excellent strength relative to its lightweight nature, making it ideal for structural applications like beams, rafters, and trusses. This balance reduces the load on buildings while maintaining structural integrity.
2. Workability
– Its straight grain and uniform texture allow for easy machining, cutting, and shaping. This enhances construction efficiency, as it resists splitting during nailing or screwing and accepts finishes well.
3. Acoustic Properties
– Known for its resonance, spruce is used in musical instruments and architectural elements requiring sound optimization, such as auditorium paneling or ceilings.
4. Aesthetic Appeal
– The pale, creamy color with minimal knots provides a clean, attractive appearance suitable for both interior (e.g., flooring, paneling) and exterior finishes.
5. Sustainability
– As a fast-growing species, Norway spruce is renewable and often sourced from responsibly managed forests, aligning with eco-friendly building practices.
6. Thermal Insulation
– Like most softwoods, it offers good thermal insulation, contributing to energy-efficient buildings by reducing heat transfer.
7. Cost-Effectiveness
– Its abundance and rapid growth make it more affordable than many hardwoods or synthetic materials, ideal for large-scale projects.
8. Dimensional Stability
– When properly dried and treated, Norway spruce exhibits moderate resistance to warping and shrinking, ensuring longevity in construction.
**Considerations**:
Durability: While not naturally decay-resistant, it performs well indoors or when treated for outdoor use (e.g., staining, pressure treatment).
Hardness: Softer than hardwoods, limiting its use in high-traffic flooring without protective coatings.
Historically and practically, Norway spruce’s versatility, coupled with sustainable availability, cements its role as a preferred material in both traditional and modern construction.
Buying a log cabin can be an exciting path, but also quite a difficult one. There are a lot of companies out there with low quality materials and relatively little experience in the field. If you’re buying a log cabin from a log cabins Ireland company which has not been in business more than a couple of years, you can assume they are jumping on the log cabin bandwagon. Ask them how much experience they have in buying and constructing log cabins – who supplies them their log cabins, and how long they are guaranteed for.
What deposit should I pay?
There are companies out there that are looking for 50% upfront payments from someone buying a log cabin. This is TOO MUCH! We have heard horror stories of people paying huge amounts of money to young, struggling log cabin companies, and losing it all as the company goes bust. Or worse, where the companies are unscrupulous and, shall we say “don’t have the best interests of their customers buying a log cabin at heart…”
When buying a log cabin, the most important element in that cabin is the timber itself. Most decent log cabins in Ireland are manufactured in the Baltics, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, or the Scandinavian countries – Sweden or Norway usually, or Finland. That is because there is a history of log cabin manufacture, building and living in this region. All of the expertise of centuries of forestry, logging and cabin construction are handed down to the log cabin industry in this region. So when we import for someone buying a log cabin, you are buying tradition too. And a lot of our builders come from this region, and from families who have been builders for generations. There is NOTHING our guys don’t know about building the best, longest-lasting log cabins. So when you’re buying a log cabin from Timber Living, your buying tradition and centuries of know-how too!
Blog Post: What timber should a log cabin be built with?
Have a read of our blog post about the timber used in a timber living log cabin here: What Timber Should a Log Cabin Be Built With?. It’s very interesting reading for anyone buying a log cabin.
Quality Double-Glazed Windows
What do we need in a quality window when we’re buying a log cabin? Of course, it needs to be double-glazed. And a good gap – at least 12mm, between both panes, is a must. But what about the frames? We offer both timber and uPVC frames in our windows and doors. The timber windows look great, especially from the interior. But the uPVC windows of course take less maintenance. It’s a conundrum, but can be easily solved by using a coloured uPVC to add that extra bit of character to your cabin. Whichever you choose, you can be sure of market leading windows and doors from Timber Living.
The roof cover on your premium log house is crucial to your log cabin’s longevity. A poor roof is going to let water in, and once that starts, you are in a lot of trouble. That is why we use a pressed-aluminium, tile effect roof. Because it is aluminium, it will not rust. And because it comes in large panels, it is fitted reasonably speedily, reducing overall costs to the client.
Log Cabin Size – number of bedrooms
It might sound a bit too simple, but we mention number of bedrooms, because sometimes people look for more bedrooms than they need when buying a log cabin! This is mainly the case in two bedroom log cabins, built for a single occupant. The customer deciding to allocate a full room of the log cabin to someone who might visit two or three times a year! That is very cabin logonomics! Better to set up this room as an office or crafting room, and buy a quality folding couch, transforming the spare room into a visitor’s room for their short stay!
If you’re in a hurry to build a log cabin, we have a number in stock, which can be built within six weeks, if necessary. Just take a look at our In Stock page to see what’s available in a hurry.
Nationwide Service
No matter where you are in Ireland, if you’re buying a log cabin, we will be happy to supply you. We have showrooms all over Ireland, including Boyle, Co Roscommon, Tullow, Co Carlow and Carrigaline in Cork. No matter what your question is, don’t hesitate to contact us and we’ll be happy to help you with your enquiries.
Timber frame walls or log cabin – what’s the difference?
what’s the difference between timber frame walls and a log cabin?
If you’re seriously considering building a house with timber frame walls, you should take a look at our range of fully-priced timber frame homes. We have a full collection of technical drawings available for all of our quality timber frame homes, and we can also price your own bespoke timber frame home design. If you’re interested, we can build frame homes to passive standards.
A timber frame building generally has a lot more layers in the walls and roof then you will find in a regular log cabin. These extra layers mean, in effect, that a timber frame building is going to be more expensive than a log cabin. Coupled with the fact that our timber frame buildings are specified with a minimum of 6 inches of insulation, bumping the price up even further.
Section through our timber frame walls
Details of construction of A2 Timber Frame Wall
Within our timber frame buildings we have a number of layers as you can see in the graphic above. The most obvious difference at first glance between timber frame walls and a log cabin is that the exterior of the timber frame section that we use is cement board and the interior is plasterboard. Along with these two layers we have 6 inches of insulation Aqua board, A50 millimetre well ventilated void and other layers of material for weather protection.
Weather protected timber frame
Weather protection and longevity are very important to us at timber living, so we have had our timber frame walls specially designed. You will notice a PVC vent with insect mesh at the base of our walls how long with Aqua board which is a cement board and highly weather resistant when rendered.
Log Cabin Wall Options
We offer our log cabins in 2 variations: exterior timber and exterior a cement board.
Timber or Cement Board Exterior?
For some customers this choice is very clear, while for others it is a difficult choice to make. A lot of people come to us with the idea of a log cabin with its timber exterior, and that is of course the traditional cladding for log cabins.
There are many details to keep an eye out for when buying a log cabin, in order to ensure that your log cabin lasts a lifetime, is cosy and easy to heat. Let’s start at the bottom and work our way up.
Weatherproof base construction
It is really important that your log cabin cannot does not end up sitting in a pool of water and soaking up rain. That is why we at Timber Living log cabins always insist that the base concrete base of a log cabin is 20 millimetres shorter than the log cabin itself. This ensures that the log cabin overhangs the base and that there is no possibility of water pooling under the cabin.
We also include a rain cill all around the cabin to throw any rainwater away from the base.
You can see perfect examples of all of our log cabins at our log cabin showrooms in Tullow, Boyle, Cork, Limerick and Galway. Just click on our Log Cabin Showrooms page for addresses and opening times.
Note: You need to phone ahead to Cork and Boyle to make an appointment.
Log cabin base/foundation details
This video goes through all of the details you should look for when checking out the foundations of a log cabin base.
Quality Log Cabin Timber
Our a log cabin timber is from Scandinavia (Norway, Sweden, Finland – not usually from Denmark). While it is Norway Spruce, it is often referred to as Arctic Spruce, since it is grown in or near the Arctic Circle. Timber that is grown in the Arctic Circle grows at a lot slower rate than timber grown in Ireland. That means that has a three month growing season, which makes the grain very very tight. This means there will be no bending, warping or splitting in your log cabin timber. Make sure that your supplier is using Arctic spruce in the construction of your log cabin. It is the most important fundamental element to your cabin and if you get this wrong you will see problems down the line.
Hard Floor Insulation
I have come across a number of cases where amateur log cabin companies have installed Rockwall in the floor of a log cabin. This has been a complete disaster for the owners. You need to use hard Kingspan insulation (or equivalent) in your floors. Rockwool insulation, lying on a cold concrete base with only a thin deep PC barrier will soak up condensation at a massive rate leading to a very very cold floor and also the potential for lots of rot in the floor Timbers. Even a whisper of this bad practice and you should turn on your heels and run from this supplier!
Quality Timber of uPVC Windows
We offer you the choice of timber windows or uPVC windows for your log cabins. If you go for uPVC windows, you can have a wide choice of colours. Timber and white PVC windows are the same cost while a colored PVC set will set you back a little bit more financially. Please ask our reps when discussing your window choice. Interestingly, the timber windows, which come from our supplier in Latvia, open inwards while they weather glaze windows open outwards. Hi I sometimes think we should have an EU law to make all windows open inwards. I have windows in my house upstairs that have never been cleaned on the outside! You would take your life in your hands going up that high to clean them! There’s a lot more detail about the windows available to you in our blog post Which Windows for you log cabin?
Durable Roof Cover
Your roof cover is a hugely important element to the durability of your log cabin, and needs to be looked at closely when buying a log cabin. You need a long lasting, weatherproof roof covering, which will not require replacement after a number of years. We use a pressed aluminium, tile-effect roof cover which looks very very well and lasts a long lifetime. In fact, we have a cabin on the iron islands for 10 years now and the roof is as good as the day we built the cabin. If that is not a stress test, I don’t know what it is!
Because of the inherent construction of a log cabin, it is not possible to put a heavy roof covering on the building. That is why lighter tiles and tiling panels are used. This also means that they are cheaper and installed in a shorter time, saving yet more money. But although they are cheaper, they are just as durable and in fact, more storm proof than smaller individual tiles.
Clear Pricing – no extras!
Last but not least, make sure you know exactly what the full price iswhen buying a log cabin. Oftentimes there are a list of extras and other log cabin supplier websites. Choice of roof cover, quantity of insulation, type of base, window type etcetera. We at timber living only offer one price, and that is the price for the complete timber building including windows, doors and roof cover and insulation, delivered and built. There are no extra costs for further mileage outside a 50km radius, or in accommodation costs if the guys have to stay over.
Guilty as charged, we do not supply gutters. But if you have them on site when we are building and you are nice to the lads, I’m sure they’ll throw them up for you!
What about low maintenance log cabin? We’re all so busy nowadays. It seems like everywhere you turn there’s something to do. And that is why you should really consider a low maintenance log cabin.
Timber or cement board exterior?
All of our residential log cabins are double wall insulated constructions. Our standard log cabins have a 35 mm interior wall and a 45 mm exterior wall with 100 mm of insulation in between. Our low maintenance log cabins use the 45 mm wall and we put 100 mm of insulation outside that wall with a vapour barrier and an air gap before installing cement board on the outside of the building.
I hope the illustration below shines a bit of light on that.
Low maintenance log cabin benefits
A low maintenance log cabin offers numerous benefits, especially in today’s busy world. With our hectic schedules, it often feels like there is always something demanding our attention. That’s why investing in a low maintenance log cabin is a wise choice.
Benefit One: Cost
The initial cost of a log cabin with cement board on the outside is cheaper than a log cabin with timber on the outside. But you have to get your builder to skim the final building, and that is going to make your low maintenance cabin a little bit more expensive. Of course, you will make up the difference quite quickly because the cost of Sikkens wood stain is higher than the cost of a standard exterior paint. So, after your second time staining the exterior of your cabin you have broke even. And hat back-of-the-mind Whisper that keeps reminding you that you have to stain the log cabin is gone.
Benefit Two: peace of mind
Peace of Mind is important to us all. And with a cement board exterior on your log cabin, the added onus of regular maintenance every four years is removed. You could leave your cement board log cabin untouched for 20 years and not be worried. It would look terrible! But it would be fine as a structure.
Admittedly, a cement board exterior might not be to everyone’s taste. The timber exterior on a log cabin exudes charm and is definitely a big reason for people buying log cabins. But the practicality of a cement board exterior outdoors the looks of a timber exterior for a certain buyer. If you are that buyer, talk to us today.
When buying a cabin, the levels and quality of log cabin insulation are very important. In fact, the very first thing you should look at when buying a log cabin is the whether or not the walls have a cavity. Some companies offer single wall cabins built with 75mm or 90mm timbers, but with NO insulation. Do not buy a cabin like this, if you intend to live and sleep in it. These walls do not provide sufficient insulation, AND there will be serious dampness problems behind presses and fittings.
What Log Cabin Insulation is included in a standard log cabin
At Timber Living, all our log cabins come with a 100mm wall cavity as standard. (This cavity can be increased to 150mm or even 200mm if requested).
Within this cavity, we use a product called METAC, which is very much like standard rockwool, but has an improved u-value, or insulation quality. We also use 100mm METAC in our roof cavities. With 100mm of METAC insulation, we gat a u-value of 0.19 W/m2K.
In the floor we use 50mm PIR (most people know this as Kingspan insulation), which gives us a u-value of 0.44 W/m2K.
Insulation in our timberframe models
We have developed a timber-frame mode of building, for customers who are going for planning permission You can see all of our timber-frame houses here. We can build to any design if these models are not what you are looking for. Just ask at any of our showrooms.
As you can see from the image below, there is a much higher level of insulation in the timber frame model. Building regulations have been changed over the last two decades with the aim of reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the residential sector.
External Walls U-Values (typical buld up and min requirement for A3-A2 rating)
Item
Resistance
(m2K/W)
External Surface Values
0.05
Ext Render on Cement Board
0.04
100mm Ext Insulation (EPS)
2.85
45mm Timber Structure
0.35
150mm Metac Insulation (in 150mm timberframe)
4.4
52.5mm Insulated Board
1.9
Internal Surface
0.1
Total Resistance (m2K/W)
9.69
U-Value (W/m2K)
0.1
Internal Walls
100mm ROLL ACOUSTIC INSULATION (in 100mm Timber frame)
Roof & Ceiling
Roof Ceiling U-Values (typical buld up and min requirement for A3-A2 rating)
Resistance (m2K/W)
Metal Profile Tile Effect
0.05
Cavity Attic Space
0.17
400mm Earthwool Insulation
9.09
12.5mm Internal Plasterboard
0.06
Internal Surface
0.1
Total Resistance (m2K/W)
9.47
U-Value (W/m2K)
0.11
PVC Colour Windows & External Doors
U value for PVC doors U = 1.42 W/m²K
U value for PVC windows U = 1.3 W/m²K
Delivery & Build on pre-prepared foundation base.
Construction and U-Value Certs
Project does not include:
Base and finished floors
Substructure Ground Floor U-Values (typical buld up and min requirement for A3-A2 rating)
Resistance (m2K/W)
Ground Values
0.05
150mm PIR Insulation
6.8
150mm Concrete Slab
0.07
22mm Timber Flooring
0.17
Internal Surface Values
0.15
Total Resistance (m2K/W)
7.24
U-Value (W/m2K)
0.14
Understanding the concept of U-values in building materials
U-values play a crucial role in understanding the thermal efficiency of building materials. The U-value, also known as the heat transfer coefficient or thermal transmittance, measures the rate at which heat is transferred through a particular section of construction. It is calculated by finding the reciprocal of the sum of the thermal resistances of each material that makes up the building element. The U-value is expressed in watts per square meter per kelvin (W/(m²K)). In simpler terms, it represents the amount of heat that is lost through a square meter of the material for every degree difference in temperature.
The importance of U-values in building energy efficiency cannot be overstated. As energy prices continue to rise and sustainability becomes a greater concern, U-values have become a key performance measure for buildings. Lower U-values indicate better insulation and less heat loss, resulting in improved energy efficiency. By understanding and measuring U-values, we can make informed decisions about building materials and design to enhance the sustainability and performance of our buildings. This, in turn, can lead to reduced energy consumption and lower carbon emissions
Several factors influence the U-values of building materials. The thermal conductivity of a material, represented by the lambda (λ) or k-value, determines how easily heat can pass through it. Materials with lower thermal conductivity have lower U-values and provide better insulation. The thickness of the material also affects the U-value, with thicker materials offering higher resistance to heat transfer. Additionally, the presence of air gaps, insulation layers, and the overall design and construction of the building element can impact the U-value. By considering these factors and selecting materials with lower U-values, architects and builders can create more energy-efficient and sustainable structures.
There are several things to consider when buying a log cabin:
Source of timber for your cabin
Single or double wall
Weather boards and rain sills
Quality of interior finish
Where does the timber come from?
The first thing any log cabin buyer will see when purchasing a log cabin is the timber, or lumber. At Timberliving, our log cabins come from the Baltic states, a region with a rich heritage of building solid, cosy log homes. Our log cabin timber is sourced from sustainable reputable forestries located mainly in Finland, Norway and Sweden.
All of our trees are Norway Spruce, and generally referred to as Arctic Spruce, since they are grown in the Artic Circle. Growing in this region creates trees that are extremely durable and of high quality. This is because of the slow growing season – about three or four months a year. This slow growing means the grain of the trees is very tight. This creates extremely tight timber, which won’t warp, twist or split as easily as Irish grown timber.
Log Cabin Walls
Single or double walls? Some cabin companies in Ireland offer single wall cabins for residential living. Unless these walls are at least 200mm (8 inches) thick, you are going to encounter some serious dampness (and ensuing health) issues. So if you’re dealing with a company that is telling you that 75mm or 90mm think single walls are sufficient, walk away!
A double wall if obviously going to make your cabin more expensive, but you will need the extra wall to create a cavity for your insulation.
Our standard cabin walls have a four inch cavity, which we fill with highly insulating METAC insulation, which is like a high density rock woll. You can increase this cavity to six, or even eight inches if you wish.
Weather boards
Weather boards are an important element in the construction of a log cabin. They protect the protruding ends of a log cabin from water/rain ingress, which can lead dampness within a cabin and rotting of cabin corners. These weatherboards are a crucial element for your log cabin, and should always be included.
In fact, its because of the lack of weatherboards on some competitors cabins over the years that has given log cabins such a bad name in Ireland. There have been log cabin companies in Ireland selling single-wall cabins to people as residential units. The wall thickness on these cabins varied between 70 and 95mm thickness, and the ends of the logs were exposed to the elements. This caused all sorts of problems for the residents of these buildings. This is why most planners now insist that log cabins cannot be built without cement board on the cabin exteriors.
Log Cabin Buyers – look closely at the interior
As a log cabin buyer, you might be really keen about the exterior look of a log cabin. And why wouldn’t you be! Most people fall in love with a log cabin when they see one. But the interior details are very important too. You should pay heed to the door and window architraves, the wall skirting and coving, and the details at the roof beam/wall junction.
What about the interior doors? Are the door handles of a sufficiently high quality? Is there a seal on the doors. Are the hinges solid?
Every log cabin buyer should also test the external doors and windows. Open and close the windows and get a feel for the hardware – hinges and locks. Look at the gap in the double glazing – the wider the better.
Your choice of log cabin window type (pvc or timber) is important and, as with most decisions, it boils down to three things: price, convenience and taste. Lets take a look in a little more detail.
PVC or Timber Windows and doors?
The choice between PVC and timber windows depends on your needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:
Cost: with Timber Living, there is no difference in cost between white PVC and timber log cabin windows. If you are considering coloured PVC windows, the cost goes up, but minimally (approxiamtely €400 for a two bed log cabin. Ask one of our representatives if you’re thinking of coloured PVC windows.) Maintenance: PVC windows are easier to maintain than timber windows, which require treatment every three or four years. Durability: Timber windows can last a long time if maintained well. Our PVC windows come from Weatherglaze, so you can be very happy with their reputation on the Irish market. Appearance: Timber windows have a natural and classic look that suit our log cabins better than PVC windows, particularly with the cross mullions. But they are not to everyone’s taste. Go with your own style is what we always say! And of course, PVC windows are available in a variety of colours.
All of our log cabin exterior windows and doors are double-glazed. And double-glazing gives a number of benefits to your log cabin.
Insulation: Double-glazing helps insulate your log cabin from heat loss. This is the first thing everyone thinks about when they think of double glazing. But there are other benefits too:
Noise reduction. A well-built double glazed window will provide a lot of quality noise reduction too! Just open your window and notince the increase in ambient noise. There you go!
Increased security: A quality double-glazed window or door is a good deterrent for any would-be burglar. All of our external doors come with five point locking as standard. And you can feel the quality of all of our log cabin windows and doors at any of our showrooms.
Weatherglaze provide us with very high quality external log cabin windows and doors. If you visit any of our show houses and try the door and window handles on the NILA garden cabin, you will immediately get the sense of quality and strength intrinsic in these quality items.
Coupled with the build quality of these windows and doors, you will also be glad to hear that Weatherglaze windows have an extra special coating on their glass to improve the energy efficiency, out-performing standard glass by more than 50% – just one more element of a timber living log cabin that goes towards reducing your heating bills.
The energy efficiency of the window is also increased by reducing eat loss at the window edges, making the glass 3-4°C warmer, AND cutting
condensation by up to 80%. The use of high performance gaskets reduces noise pollution, too.
When you come to visit us at our show houses, be sure to try the different windows and doors on display. You will be able to feel the quality of the hardware in the door handles and hinges. Ask our representatives about the different types of materials, finishes and maintenance required, and you’ll easily be able to make a clear decision on your choice of window type for your log cabin.
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