How Much Does a Log Cabin Cost in the UK?
Anyone considering a log cabin in their garden has to think about the cost. This is unavoidable and for most people, it’s often the determining factor of whether you can have one or not. However, despite this being the most important factor, it’s surprising how many people have no idea of the log cabin price.
I aim to dispel this uncertainty and show you the potential costs, the different factors that bump up the log cabin price, and the reality of trying to build your own log cabin.
Is a Log Cabin Worth It?
Before you look at the cost, you need to decide if it’s even worth it! When looking at how much are log cabins, you need a valid use for it and it’s got to be something you will use regularly to warrant the cost.
Regardless, the main benefits of a log cabin include:
- It gives you an additional room on your property.
- Log cabins in your garden can last for decades.
- They can be kitted out for a number of purposes
If you are struggling for space in your house and have a large garden, a log cabin can give you that extra room. Furthermore, these structures last for decades and it’s not uncommon for a log cabin to last for 40 years or more. As a result, it’s a decent long-term investment. Lastly, if you want a dedicated space for something like a home gym, an office, or a games room, a log cabin offers the perfect solution.
How Much Does a Pre-Built Log Cabin Cost?
I want to first state that the price of a pre-built log cabin varies hugely and realistically you can pay anything from £3000-£15000. This vast price variance is due to the different factors involved such as size, materials, insulation, and assembly.
Materials Used
The materials and extras are where the price for a log cabin can vary the most. You can keep it sparse and have the barebones and barely add any additional cost. Alternatively, you can go for a premium build with lots of upgrades and spend more. Typical materials and extras include:
- Flooring
- Guttering & downpipes
- Wood preserver
- Paint
Flooring and guttering upgrades are aesthetic but can also help with the functionality of the log cabin and you can pay between £800-1600 for each. It’s also ideal to have your wood treated to avoid having to repair rot. Paint is a possibility too and the self-application cost is around £500, while if you want it painted, you will spend £600 upwards depending on the size.
Size
The size is the main determining price factor for a log cabin. Simply put, the larger your cabin, the more you have to pay. Everything scales up including the materials costs, installation costs, and extras like insulation and a concrete base.
For a smaller 2.4m x 2.4m log cabin, the base price is around £2500, and with the extras such as installation and insulation, the cost can double that to £5000.
For larger cabins, such as a 4m x 3m, the base price for the kit is £4000 upwards, and with extras, you can spend over £9000.
Insulation
Some log cabins include insulation as standard depending on the model, but it may also be available as an optional extra. I advise investing in insulation as it helps with damp-proofing but also allows the cabin to be used throughout the year.
Insulation costs for the roof and floor vary depending on the size of the cabin. Obviously, a large cabin requires more insulation so the cost increases. Insulation kits can start from as little as £550 for smaller square units, up to £2200 for larger irregular-shaped cabins.
Assembly
The last piece of the puzzle when looking at how much for a log cabin is the assembly. Now, you may be able to get the materials delivered and assemble it yourself, but if you are spending the money, surely it’s worth paying a little extra to get it professionally built too?
The assembly cost depends on the type of log cabin and the size and you can expect to pay anywhere from £700 for smaller cabins up to £2500 for larger, more complex shaped cabins like hexagonal or octagonal frames.
How Much Does it Cost to Build a Log Cabin?
Some people may consider building their own log cabin and there are pros and cons to this approach. Firstly, you have complete control and can build it to your exact specifications with the features you want. Secondly, if you are handy with DIY it can present an excellent home project to tackle.
However, you may not save any money and there is a whole lot of hassle and effort involved that simply isn’t there if you buy a pre-built log cabin. For example, you won’t get any material discounts, and you may have to pay multiple shipping charges for various items. Things may not go to plan either and you could end up wasting material or re-buying items that you broke.
To build a log cabin yourself, the cost can range anywhere from £4000-£18,000 depending on the materials you choose.
