One of the most popular points of interest on our website are the photo galleries. The chance to look through page after page of detailed log home pictures gives an up close look at craftsmanship and quality.  In past years only a handful of plan books offered extensive photos. Through the internet we are able to publish multiple photos. Divided among our nine photo galleries are over 500 photos.

Quality log homes begin with the wood species. There are no cabin grade logs in our homes. Instead you only find Premium logs that meet or exceed the TPI grade stamping requirements. Especially for handcrafted log homes or those being shipped over seas we include the TPI first premium stamping. This insures that an independent party visits the yard and inspects the logs to be used for your specific house. In the close up log home photos you will see thick logs which are free of bug holes, twists, excessive knot holes, and wide checks.

Log home interior photos are very revealing. Just yesterday I wrote an article about log home kitchens. The first photo featured in the article showed a 2×4 beam scribed into the kitchen wall for the cabinets. Over the phone something like this can be described, but seeing it is so much better. When browsing interior photos look between the logs. Lower quality log homes have lots of caulking. Also note the details of the corners. I recently visited a log home built of 7″ Swedish Cope logs. Each corner was rough and gapping on each side. (See photo below). To seal the airflow between the logs the owners had used spray foam and caulking on the inside and out. Now compare that with our tight scribing. (Photo to right). There are no gaps. The logs are interlocking, tight and solid. Thus preventing any moisture or wind from penetrating.

When looking for specific features in a log home plan it very helpful to see the home actually built. Floor plans are provided for multiple homes featured here on Cowboy Log Homes. Also when an owner desires to add a feature to an existing plan, what better detail can be obtained than seeing the log prow, log archway, post and beam gazebo, or vaulted ceiling than through photos (other than visiting multiple homes in person). Photos give the opportunity to feel like you are there in person– without the cost of a plane ticket!

Our photo galleries are divided into the two log species categories of Western Red Cedar and Douglas Fir. We also offer a break down by style of homes. Handcrafted log homes, machine milled, wide diameter Swedish Cope, Post and Beam, and Heavy Timber Frame Construction can be seen. For business owners we offer a gallery of commercial log buildings. And finally there is a gallery devoted to the men who craft these log beauties.

So when shopping for a cabin, be sure to take time to look at the log home pictures provided. Compare the features of the homes, the diameter of the logs used, wood species available, and log home styles. No two companies are the same, but a discerning eye can tell which are simply pretty homes and those that are built with the “WOW” factor in mind.

Cowboy Log Homes