Is there siding that looks like a log cabin?

Yes. D-log siding is milled with a rounded exterior face that mimics a full-log wall when installed. White pine D-log from suppliers like Sisson Log Homes in Blue Ridge is the most common option. LP SmartSide and fiber cement manufacturers also make log-profile panels, though they lack the natural wood grain that most cabin owners want.

Is log siding expensive compared to other options?

Log siding runs $9 to $25 per square foot installed, making it the most expensive of the three main cabin siding options. White pine D-log at the lower end ($9 to $15/sq ft) is comparable to clear-grade cedar. Cedar log siding at the premium end can push total project costs above $60,000 on a larger cabin.

Can you change the exterior of a log cabin?

You can replace log siding with Hardiplank or cedar lap siding on most cabins, since the structure underneath is standard dimensional framing. But changing from a log exterior to lap siding changes the property's character significantly. Consider whether the aesthetic change affects resale value in a market where buyers expect log cabin looks.

How long does cedar siding last on a mountain cabin?

Cedar siding lasts 25 to 40 years on a mountain cabin with consistent maintenance. In North Georgia's humid climate, that means restaining every 2 to 3 years on south-facing and west-facing walls, and every 3 to 5 years on protected exposures. Without regular restaining, cedar can show significant deterioration in under 15 years.

Is Hardiplank good for a mountain cabin with high humidity?

Hardiplank's HZ10 product line is specifically engineered for humid, freeze-thaw climates like Blue Ridge. It resists moisture absorption, won't rot or attract woodpeckers, and carries a 30-year non-prorated warranty. The main trade-off is aesthetic: it looks like lap siding, not log or natural wood.

How often do you need to restain cedar siding in North Georgia?

Plan on restaining every 2 to 3 years for walls that get direct sun and moisture exposure (south and west faces). Protected walls under deep eaves or on the north side can go 4 to 5 years between coats. Each restaining cycle on a typical 1,500 sq ft cabin costs $1,500 to $3,000 for labor and materials in the Blue Ridge area.

Cabin Siding Replacement Blue Ridge GA: Cedar vs Log