Log cabins are a versatile addition to any outdoor space. Not only do they provide extra space to focus on work, leisure or entertainment, they’re also a stylish feature for any garden. Garden buildings can offer you the same potential and possibilities of an extension, at a fraction of the cost of home renovation.
Log cabins are ideal as entertaining rooms, games rooms, craft rooms, bars, gyms, home offices and outdoor living rooms. They’re perfect for giving young adults or children their own space away from the family home, or even operating a business. Log cabins add value to your home with their attractive designs and practicality.
As the top ranked retailer by the independent experts at WhatShed? - AND their No.1 for Log Cabins and for Garden Rooms - we've got everything you need to know, just click a topic and dive right in…
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This guide is here to help you transform your garden into a functional and comfortable space that you can use for work or entertainment and make the most of your outdoor space with a garden building that can be as functional or as fun as you want it to be.
Building a log cabin is a big undertaking and there is a lot to consider. You need to think about the space you have, what the cabin will be used for, and your budget.
You may not be sure how to buy the right size garden building. You may not be sure if your chosen spot in the garden will have enough room for the cabin you have in mind. With the right measurements and planning, you can easily find a garden building that fits comfortably in the space you have. Whether that's a tiny nook or a larger area with enough height, making sure you get the correct size is important so that you can use your garden room to its fullest. All you must do is measure the space that you plan on putting the cabin, which will determine the garden building size that will fit perfectly in your space. When you have the right size, you can then make sure the cabin’s specifications include functional and aesthetic details like verandas, and the space for doors and windows to open. There is often a roof overhang on a log cabin, so this also needs to be taken into consideration. Check if the size of the overhang that is provided is from the face of the wall or the end of the interlocking log.
Once you have an accurate measurement of the space available, you can start making plans for a log cabin and consider what size garden building you can accommodate. It’s good to think ahead - if you will appreciate more space in the future, choose a size that could accommodate your changing needs or a growing family.
The use of your log cabin will be an important factor to keep in mind when choosing a size. If you plan on creating a home gym, for example, be sure that the building can accommodate the exercise machines you choose. Furniture will be an important aspect of entertainment rooms, so give yourself enough space for chairs, sofas and tables. While a home office will probably only need enough room to comfortable fit a desk and chair, increased space improves flexibility and allows for a multi-functional space. You could have a home office by day and games room by night! Extra space is also ideal to use for storage – you can never get enough storage! Remember to consider the height requirements of your chosen equipment or furniture as well as the necessary floor space.
Log cabins come in a variety of styles from contemporary designs to something more traditional, so you can customise your space to make it work for your needs. You can even buy corner log cabins which are designed to fit snug in the corner of your garden. A corner log cabin is great if you have limited garden space and is the perfect solution no matter what the size of your garden.
It’s important to note that log cabin companies quote sizes in different ways. Their size could refer to the base size, the internal measurement, the external measurement, or the external measurement with the roof overhang. The difference between the external and internal dimensions could be significant, so be sure to double check specific technical dimensions and ask to receive a detailed construct diagram or floorplan showing all measurements.
With all wooden garden buildings, the most important component is the timber itself. The quality of the wood will have an impact not only on the appearance of your building, but also its longevity.
Tiger uses the best timber for garden buildings that is slow grown, and the cabin walls are made of interlocking logs which join to create a solid structure with no visible gaps. A tight fit between logs results in a building that is more resistant to damp and wind penetration, extending the life of the cabin. This means that the wood has increased density, improved durability, and is less prone to warping or splits. Perfect for those looking to build a unique and cosy garden getaway. Whether you’re looking for a warm and inviting escape from the everyday hustle and bustle or a robust and durable guest room or home office, our solid log wall design offers maximum insulation and strength which means your cabin is a durable, energy efficient construction that is built to last.
We offer a variety of log thickness options to suit all budgets If you plan to use your building year-round, it may be beneficial to choose a log cabin with thicker logs – especially if you live in a cooler region. Log cabins are available in a variety of thicknesses; at Tiger we have buildings manufactured from 19mm, 28mm and 44mm logs.
The tongue and groove interlocking system is the perfect choice for creating a weather-resistant, robust construction. Built with thick boards, so they are less susceptible to movement under different weather conditions, and with an interlock system that ensures a lack of gaps to provide better protection from rain and wind. Plus, the flat profile gives a sleek, modern finish. With the tongue and groove log system, you will have the peace of mind that your construction will be weather-resistant and built with the best materials.
Choosing the right timber for your garden building is crucial. The wood used is the most important part, affecting how it looks, how strong it is, and how long it will last. That's why, at our log cabin factory, we make sure the timber we use is the best. When you buy a log cabin, you should do the same!
So, what kind of timber do we use, and why is it better? One important thing about timber is how fast it grows. Slower-grown timber has denser grain, which makes it stronger and less prone to common problems like splits, knotholes, and warping. The temperature where timber grows also matters. Colder regions have slower growth, resulting in denser wood. Timber from very cold areas like the Arctic is known to be the most solid. We make sure to buy the best grades of timber available. Throughout our range, we use high-quality European Softwood timber, mostly Scandinavian Timber - we don't accept lower grade wood.
All the timber we use is "kiln dried," which means it's kept at the right moisture level to prevent warping or twisting. We have a big advantage over others in the UK market. We control the whole process from importing the timber to shipping the products ourselves. We pick and check the timber when it arrives. If it's not up to our standards, it doesn't even enter our timber mill. We machine the timber ourselves at our timber mill in Yorkshire, ensuring it's accurate and of high quality. Our skilled and experienced staff know where the final materials are going and make sure they are machined just right. We check all the machined logs and cut them to the right length in our manufacturing and assembly plant in Leeds. Each component is made carefully and checked before being packed and loaded into individual cabins. We even deliver the buildings ourselves, on our own wagons, with our own drivers.
19mm log cabins tend to be on the smaller side, making them ideal for more compact gardens. The walls are thicker than that of a shed, and if you wish to use your log cabin as a summer house on warmer days, you may find 19mm to be adequate for your needs.
These buildings are a popular middle choice between shed-style summerhouses and heavier cabins. Despite being the more budget-friendly option, high quality 19mm cabins will still be sufficiently strong and sturdy to enjoy warm, sunny days in your garden location. A 19mm log cabin will be considerably more resilient than a panel-built summerhouse.
28mm log cabins are the next step up from 19mm buildings. The increased thickness provides increased robustness and improved heat retention. While 28mm log cabins can be used year-round in mild climates, they are best suited to spring, summer and autumn.
These log cabins tend to be available in more sizes and styles than 19mm buildings, with more opportunities for customisation Logs have an R-value (the thermal resistance rating) of around 1.41 per inch, and kiln-dried softwood as used by Tiger is also effective at minimising air leakage.
44mm log cabins are ideal for use in all seasons. The timber is thick enough to protect against heat loss and provide insulation in winter, while also providing the perfect outdoor space to relax in summer.
44mm log cabins have increased strength and durability and are available in a wide range of stunning designs to upgrade any outdoor space. For this reason, log cabins in 44mm logs can be significantly larger in size. The double tongue and groove log system firmly interlocks for a cabin that is truly built to last.
Did you know that you can also get creative with your Tiger 19mm log cabin? TigerFlex® is the unique range of modular cabins with interchangeable log sets to give you the freedom to place doors and windows where you want, in a wide range of styles and sizes. Only Tiger offers this flexible, adaptable range and it is so innovative, it has patents pending in the USA and Europe as well as the United Kingdom. If you need it quickly, we can also deliver TigerFlex® on a express carrier service, delivered on a day of your choice (in as little as a week).
Log cabins are typically available in the following styles:
An Apex roof provides the more traditional look of a log cabin. This design allows for increased headroom in the centre of the building. Many Apex log cabins also feature an overhang to protect the building from rainfall. Make sure you do not install Apex log cabins too close o a boundary fence, as the dual pitched roof could cause rainwater to pour into your neighbour’s garden.
A Pent roof offers a more modern design for a log cabin. The roof typically slopes backwards, allowing for additional headroom at the entrance. Many companies will give you the option of changing the configuration, so the entrance can be placed on the low side of the cabin.
Off-set Apex roof buildings are a hybrid between an Apex and a Pent roof. They provide a more unique silhouette for the building, with the charm of an apex roof and the increased entry headroom of a Pent. The main advantage of this building is that it will usually be under 2.5 metres high in accordance with planning regulations. Read on for more detailed information on planning permission.
You also might hear people call this a "Gambrel roof" or a "Dutch roof." This style is often found on bigger sheds, and while it is not as popular as a pent, apex or hipex roof, it’s popularity is growing. It's a roof with two sides, and each side has two slopes. The steeper angle makes it great at handling rain, snow, and wind, especially in places with lots of snow. The Barn design also provides more headroom and vertical space within the building.
Be sure to check what roof covering the cabin will be provided with, as - unlike Tiger - some companies will not include this as standard. High quality roofing felt will protect your log cabin from rain, wind and snow, and help to prevent damage caused by damp. You may also have the option to upgrade to shingles. Shingles provide a more attractive look to a log cabin and are harder wearing. These will typically require less maintenance than standard roofing felt. We sell felt shingles in a variety of colours: black, red, brown and green.
You can also choose an EPDM option instead. This is a tough, treated rubberised sheet which is easy to roll on and apply, and which adds a sleek, modern finish to your garden building – particularly pent roofed models. This doesn’t need a roofing felt layer underneath it, so it is usually quicker to install.
Both shingles and EPDM coverings are available at Tiger and simple to fit: see the installation videos in our Help Centre to see for yourself!
When it comes to choosing your log cabin, doors and windows are a large factor to consider. If you are purchasing your cabin directly from a manufacturer like Tiger, you may have the option of creating a bespoke building – choosing which style of door and window, as well as where to place them.
If you are using your log cabin as a summer house, it would be beneficial to choose windows and doors which will allow your building to receive maximum sunlight: these tend to be fully glazed, which are very popular Fully boarded doors, however, are more suited to buildings used as a workshop or for storage Half board doors can be the best of both, with a pane at the top and boarded at the bottom – generally single door cabins come with a half-boarded door (though these can be upgraded if required).
Window and door glazing comes in a variety of styles from Georgian (with a lattice frame overlaid), to Euro (bisected by one horizontal bead) to full pane (a fully clear glass centre). Tiger log cabins are fitted with toughened glass as standard, and usually double glazed for added temperature control.
At Tiger, we believe in making your log cabin perfect, right down to the last details like doors and windows. That's why we carefully create all our doors and windows in the UK, using high-quality redwood. We want them to be just right for your Tiger log cabin. You get to choose if you want the door to open on the left or the right, and if you want it to open inwards or outwards, making sure it fits your cabin just the way you like.
One special thing about our log cabin doors and windows is the way they are hung. We use a rebated frame method. It's like a solid piece of wood with a part cut out to make the frame, just like on a regular house with timber doors. Other log cabin makers use a "square flush" method, where the door sits over the frame – though that can make the door frame twist or warp.
Check the headroom of your doors when shopping for a log cabin. Tiger log cabin doors are built with a good amount of space to walk through inside - the height is 1880mm (6ft 2in), so you have plenty of room at the entrance.
Make sure you consider which door is suitable for your needs. If you will be manoeuvring bulky objects in and out of your cabin, a double door will make your life much easier. Additional doors are a great way to create two separate spaces, especially if your cabin will feature a partition.
If not already fitted as standard, double glazing and toughened glass are available as upgrades - with the benefits of heat retention as well as increased security. You can also upgrade to opening windows if your chosen model does not feature these – perfect for a cool breeze in summer.
It’s very important that you have a base prepared correctly prior to the installation of your log cabin. The quality of your base will have either a positive or negative impact on the life of your log cabin, and it can be hard to make changes afterwards - so it’s best to get it right first time.
The base should be firm and level and constructed from a suitably durable material. The most popular materials for log cabin bases are eco-friendly recycled plastic lattices, paving flags and concrete. The base should be as flat and even as possible, so a spirit level is recommended.
To be sure you can build an accurate base, consult the manufacturer’s website for the exact dimensions, as different companies quote sizes differently. Your base should not be smaller than the base of your log cabin, but not too much larger either, as this could result in water pooling.
Repeated walking to and from your log cabin could potentially damage grassy areas of your garden, so consider installing your building near an existing path or walkway, or building a new one.
Placing your cabin base a minimum of 18 inches from any boundary fence or wall is recommended, as this will allow sufficient space to paint and treat your building. It will also allow air to circulate more freely around your cabin - if your building is too close to a fence or wall, this could lead to still, moisture-heavy air which is more prone to leave its excess water on the timber – increasing the tendency for damp and mould.
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19mm log cabins are often on the smaller side, making them perfect for smaller garden spaces. The walls are thicker than those of a shed, and you could find that 19mm is sufficient for your needs if you want to use your log cabin as a summer house on warm days. A 19mm cabins falls somewhere between a summerhouse that resembles a shed and a sturdier cabin. A high-quality 19mm cabin will, however, be strong and solid while being the more affordable option. |
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| Cladding | High-grade 19mm interlocking logs, tongue and groove link |
| Windows | Joiner made frames, 4mm toughened glass as standard |
| Roof Covering | High-grade mineral TigerFelt® as standard EPDM also available |
| Roof & Floor | Pre-assembled easy-fit roof panels 12mm tongue and groove boards |
| TigerFlex® Modular | Yes |
| Average Industry Guarantee | 10 Years |
| Tiger Guarantee | 20 Years |
| Bespoke Option | No, but easy to reposition doors and windows |
| Price | £800 - £2,000 |
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The next level up from 19mm buildings are 28mm log cabins. Greater resilience and better heat retention are provided by the increased timber thickness. In mild regions, 28mm cabins can be used all year long, but they work best in the spring, summer and autumn. Compared to 19mm buildings, these log cabins often come in a wider range of sizes and styles with more customisation options. |
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| Cladding | High-grade 28mm interlocking logs, tongue and groove link |
| Windows | Joiner made frames, 4mm toughened glass as standard |
| Roof Covering | High-grade mineral TigerFelt® as standard EPDM or roof shingles also available |
| Roof & Floor | Individual 19mm tongue & groove roof boards Heavy Duty 19mm tongue and groove |
| TigerFlex® Modular | No |
| Average Industry Guarantee | 10 Years |
| Tiger Guarantee | 20 Years |
| Bespoke Option | Yes |
| Price | £1,500 - £3,000 |
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For use in all seasons, 44mm log cabins are excellent. The wood is thick enough to act as insulation in the winter and prevent heat loss, and it also creates the ideal outdoor spot for lounging in the summer. Log houses made of 44 mm thick have improved strength and durability and come in a variety of gorgeous styles to improve any outdoor space. A cabin that is genuinely long-lasting is created by the double tongue and groove log system, which tightly interlocks. |
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| Cladding | High-grade 44mm interlocking logs, double tongue and groove for even firmer link |
| Windows | Joiner made frames, 4mm toughened glass as standard |
| Roof Covering | High-grade mineral TigerFelt® as standard EPDM also available |
| Roof & Floor | Pre-assembled easy-fit roof panels 12mm tongue and groove boards |
| TigerFlex® Modular | No |
| Average Industry Guarantee | 10 Years |
| Tiger Guarantee | 20 Years |
| Bespoke Option | No, but easy to reposition doors and windows |
| Price | £2,000 - £11,000 |
Most garden buildings may not require planning permission. However, it’s important to be sure and, if in doubt, to check with your local council, as requirements can vary in different regions.
If the following criteria are met, timber structures generally do not require planning permission:
All Tiger Pent & Hipex Log Cabins, and most small Apex Log Cabins, are under 2.5m in height and so are not affected by that criteria. Even larger Apex Log Cabins are available in Reduced Height Options to ensure compliance in that regard.
Log cabin companies will either deliver on a HIAB vehicle where the building is craned off in one whole pack, or delivered on a large flatbed lorry with each piece unloaded one by one
For Tiger log cabins, delivery method will depend on whether it is on a Pick A Week or Pick A Day service.
Under the Pick A Week plan, large log cabins are usually delivered on an 18-ton HIAB truck with an integral crane to unload the building. We will provide a delivery date in advance of your preferred delivery week as well as specify the daypart it will arrive. Be sure to check the delivery dates prior to ordering, as some companies will only provide a general window of arrival.
If your log cabin is on a Pick A Week service, it will either be delivered nicely and securely packed on a contained pallet (usually on a large articulated vehicle) or it will arrive on a flatbed van and be unloaded by hand. The arrival date will also be confirmed in advance by the delivery network.
Prior to delivery, it is important that you inform us of any access issues and create sufficient space for the cabin to be unloaded, so that we have time to make adjustments to ensure successful delivery.
Many companies will offer an installation service as an additional extra. Tiger does too, although with Tiger our professional install teams can also include various roof covering options such as shingles and EPDM.
While cabin assembly is not particularly difficult due to the interlocking log system, it can be time consuming and requires a degree of DIY capability.
If you are choosing to install your cabin yourself, ensure that at least one other person will be on hand to safely assist with the build. In general, we would recommend that you have the following items for assembly, though different buildings may require different tools
Before you can consider what size and style of log cabin you would like, you need to think about where you are going to place your new garden building.
If you are planning on using your cabin as a summer house, you should think about installing it in the sunniest area of your garden to make the most of warmer days. Have a look outside on a sunny day and be aware of which areas receive the most sun. South-facing buildings will typically receive more sunshine, but make a note of any garden features which may cause shade, such as: trees, bushes, fences or buildings.
While direct sunlight is perfect for a sunny escape, be cautious if you plan on using your log cabin to house technology, as exposure to excess heat can be damaging. If you’re using your cabin as an office, workshop or gym, an area out of direct sunlight may be better.
If you wish to have power in your log cabin, it may be beneficial to place your building within reach of your mains electrics. Make sure that there is a clear path for cable to run over ground, or that you have a plan to install wiring underground. This should be discussed with a qualified electrician.
Installing your log cabin facing an attractive area of your garden is a good idea. Think about what view you would like to have, especially if you are choosing a cabin with lots of windows.
Treating your garden building is a crucial aspect of owning a log cabin, but there are also other regular maintenance tasks that are important to perform.
As discussed above, your log cabin must be treated with an appropriate high-quality wood preserver or specifically-designed outdoor timber paint (please only apply treatment once your cabin is assembled - DO NOT apply pre-installation). Tiger has created the TigerSkin® protective oil-based treatment range, or if you have chosen to paint your cabin, we recommend the Protek Royal Exterior range (we stock it, and it’s a bit of an industry-standard).
We would recommend that your building is re-treated regularly through the years. You should clear plants from the surrounding area to make sure that nothing is touching the walls. Take particular care to thoroughly treat the bottom logs around the cabin, as well as all corners of the building. Ensure that the protection you choose reaches inside and outside of every joint, and any area of machined timber.
You should be sure to check your roof for build-up of foliage or any other debris. Fallen leaves or branches could cause your roof to hold excess water and lead to the felt being damaged. There should also be nothing in contact with your roof, such as branches or bushes which could cause tears or rips. Ensure that you regularly check your felt for damage – especially after a storm – and act quickly to remove the affected area and affix a new strip of high-grade, heavy-duty mineral felt. You may need to adjust your storm brace so that the bolt is central.
Timber is a natural product, and the logs may expand and contract over time with changing temperatures. You may need to unscrew the fascia of the doors and windows to allow the log cabin to relax. This also provides opportunity to make sure the doors are square prior to being re-screwed.
While your base should already be perfectly level prior to installation, you should check to make sure that it has not moved under the building. This could lead to the timber twisting or doors going out of square.
Log cabins are typically manufactured from untreated timber. This means that the building will require thorough treatment – both inside and out – as soon as possible. Treatment with a high-quality wood preserver is essential to prolong the life of the log cabin and to ensure it remains strong, secure and stunning for years to come. Do NOT treat or paint your cabin logs, doors, windows or roof boards before assembly as the timber has been precision cut so may be affected by moisture through application. Beware of log cabins which are pre-treated, as this can modify the thickness of the log. The logs should be assembled untreated for a secure and accurate fit, and thoroughly treated afterwards. The underside of the floorboards however may be treated prior to installation.
There are many options available for treating your log cabin. You can choose a dedicated timber preserver that is clear or tinted, for protection that showcases the beauty of the wood. Alternatively, there are external timber paints, such as Protek Royal Exterior which is a high-grade water-repelling timber treatment that contains a mould inhibitor to protect the coating.. Timber paints will provide a colour that is opaquer than a stain, but will usually still allow the texture of the wood to shine through.
Keeping your garden building safe may not seem as much of a priority as your home, but it’s important to think about how to keep your log cabin secure. It’s more than likely that your cabin will contain some valuables, so you should be taking steps to protect the contents.
Be careful not to leave expensive items on show, such as televisions or computers. Hanging curtains or blinds is a great way to keep your possessions out of sight while also allowing you to add a touch of style to your building. If you can, bring any expensive possessions into your house when you are not using them in your cabin.
Alarms can be fitted in garden buildings relatively easily. Motion sensor alarms are a popular choice, and many also feature a light to deter any potential garden intruders. Be sure to check what lock will be provided with your cabin, so you can decide if you would like more security. You can purchase additional locks for your cabin door, such as hasp and staples and disc locks.
All Tiger garden buildings are made to order, but if you need something special, we can design your perfect space with our bespoke log cabin design service. Tailor-made to your needs, our custom garden room designs make anything possible – we can bring your vision to life.
We are an award-winning garden building expert that you can trust because of our innovative designs and high-quality sustainable products. Every Tiger is made to order in Yorkshire and comes with a market leading 20 year guarantee and great service.
We hope that you have found our log cabin buyer’s guide useful. At Tiger, we understand that building the perfect log cabin can be daunting. That’s why we provide a wide selection of quality log cabins and all the information you need to make sure you pick the size, features and budget that are the best for you.
If you're ready to buy your new garden building, have a look at our great range of log cabins. Need any assistance? You can give our friendly sales team a call on 0113 537 9013 who will be happy to help.
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