Log siding for dormers
Let’s first start with what a dormer is. Sometimes when first exploring custom homes and new homes, terms are used that you might not be accustomed to. The saying is true, “The only dumb question is the one you don’t ask”. Home builders are more than happy to define things for you.
Shed dormer and gable dormer
So let’s look at dormers. Dormers are basically the out cropping on a roof that forms either a triangle shape, known as a gable dormer, or a slanted outcropping, known as a shed dormer. These outcroppings are added to the top floor rooms to add more space and usability to them. Also they are used decoratively to enhance the outside appearance of a structure.
A gable dormer is also called a dog house dormer. Personally I prefer the look of the gable dormer, but the shed dormer can yield a lot of useful space on the inside of the attic rooms. A way to add to the usefulness of a dormer is to make them wider. A 4’ wide dormer has a lot less usable space than a 12’ dormer.
When building a log home, typically all of the dormers are framed with standard construction and then they are log sided on the outside. The log siding is purchased to match the logs the home is built with. Then on the inside of the dormer 1×6 tongue and groove pine or cedar is typically installed.
The advantage of constructing a home and using the log siding on the dormer is related to shrinkage. Logs are a natural product, and even with kiln dried or dead standing logs, you still get a slight settling. Using a framed wall reduces the chances of settling as the framing halts the movement.
Log siding a framed gable or shed dormer also makes for a tighter home so that the insects and weather stays on the outside of your log castle.
Thanks for reading, Sue Lemmon