Building Your Log Home, Simplified
Whether you build your own home or work with a contractor, a Ward Cedar Log Home kit typically takes less time and is easier to construct than a comparable frame house. Our building system is designed to be easily understood by either professional builders or homeowners. Most materials arrive precision-cut to minimize the amount of labor required on-site. Each component is also clearly labeled for easy identification and to help speed construction.
Thinking about building a log cabin home is exciting, but it can also feel like a lot to figure out. Where do you start? At Ward Cedar Log Homes, we’ve been guiding families for more than 100 years. From choosing land to creating a custom log home design, we make sure you know what to expect.
From your first idea to the final nail, your dedicated Ward Representative will guide you through every step of building your dream log home, ensuring you're supported before, during, and even after construction.
Log Home Planning: What to Consider Before you Build
Budget for your whole project:
Your log home package is just one piece. Be sure to plan for land prep, foundation, utilities and finishes. Log cabin kit packages can start as low as $40,000 to $150,000 and up depending on size, style, and features.
Choosing and Preparing Your Land:
Location matters. Think about slope, access, and view. Even if you don’t have land yet, it helps to start planning.
Choosing a Builder:
Most of our clients work with a general contractor, but some prefer to manage the log home construction hemselves. We make every attempt to connect you with experienced builders.
Financing a log cabin home:
Banks and credit unions may have specific loans for log homes. Planning ahead with financing can save time when it’s time to build.
Picking your log home company:
Not all log home kits are created equal. Look for premium materials, proven building systems, and a company that will be there for you long after your log home is built. With Ward, you’re backed by over a century of experience and our exclusive Comfort System 5.
The Ward Way: Step by Step Log Home Process
Building a cedar log home doesn’t have to be complicated. That’s why we’ve created The Ward Way, a simple process that keeps you supported from start to finish.
1. Dream
Start with one of our 40+ standard homes or bring us your ideas. Our team will help shape your vision into a reality with no extra design fees.
Imagine browsing through pre-designed plans in our Premier, Cedar Valley, or Camp Series and personalizing them to make them truly yours. Or simply share your ideas, sketches, or favorite photos with us, and we will handle the rest.
2. Connect
We take the time to listen, so your home fits your life, not the other way around. This is where we start shaping your custom log home together. Our team works closely with you to create a home that fits your land, lifestyle, and vision. Ready to chat or explore the possibilities? Your local Ward Representative is here to help. If you don't have a rep nearby, our team at the home office is always ready to assist. We can discuss your ideas by phone, email, or video chat.
3. Design
With our in-house engineering team, Ward will work closely with you to fine-tune your plans. Once everything looks just the way you like it, your representative will guide you every step of the way.
4. Plan & Place Your Order
Review your plans, set your budget, and secure your order. Once your design is finalized and you're ready to move forward with your investment, it's time to secure your projet and get on the schedule.
5. Build
Once your design is finalized and your purchase agreement signed, your custom log home package goes into production at our mill in Houlton, Maine. Typcially, eight to twelve weeks after ordering, your log home materials are carefully packaged and delivered. Custom designed homes may take slightly longer, depending on the time of year.
6. Support
We’re with you long after delivery, offering builder support, product recommendations, and ongoing guidance for your cedar log home. We will check in with you regularly during construction and even a year after completion. Should you have a local representative, they check in with you regularly during construction – a valuable quality control feature built right in, even after delivery.
Plus our 20-year warranty covers all log components against structural defects. Our component suppliers also extend their individual product warranties to you as a Ward client.
Welcome Home to a Lifetime of Memories
The day you’ve been waiting for has arrived, your beautiful Ward Cedar Log Home is ready to embrace the warmth, laughter, and memories you’ll create for years to come. We are honored to be a part of your journey and that you have become a part of Ward's long history.
Go Deeper: Expanded Guide
Want all the details on planning your log home? Our expanded guide to the Ward Way includes:
- Budgeting tips for log homes
- Common questions
- Options for starting with plans only
- Tips to help you make the smartest decisions for your build