"What's the Cost Per Square Foot?" It's the Wrong Question

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When considering a custom log home or timber home, one of the most common questions people ask me is: “What's the cost per square foot?”

While it may seem like a logical way to compare costs, this question can be misleading. The reality is that the cost per square foot can vary significantly-even between homes with the same total square footage. Why? Because the true cost of a custom log home or timber home depends on much more than just size.

Here's what actually influences the price:

Not all builders count square footage the same way. Some only include heated and conditioned spaces, while others factor in garages, open decks, and covered porches. A builder that includes these extra spaces in the calculation will appear to have a lower cost per square foot-but that doesn't mean the home is actually cheaper.

A larger covered porch or an expanded garage (like a five-car garage) increases both material and labor costs. These spaces require:

• Log Posts and Beams
• Extended Roofing
• Concrete Foundations
• Finishes - Timber trusses, railings, and decorative ceilings

The more intricate these areas are, the more they'll add to the cost-even if they're not considered part of the "living space" in a square footage calculation.

Two log homes may have the same square footage, but if one has 10-foot walls instead of 8-foot walls, it will cost significantly more because:

• More Materials - Taller walls require additional logs, insulation, drywall, and exterior finishes.
• Increased Labor - Higher walls require specialized equipment and extra manpower.
• HVAC Impact - More volume to heat and cool requires a larger system.
• Doors & Windows - Higher walls often mean larger (and more expensive) windows and doors.

A log home or timber home isn't just about square footage-it's about craftsmanship. The more complex the design, the higher the cost per square foot. Elements that can increase costs include:

• Exposed Beams - handcrafted log joinery
• Custom Timber Trusses
• Complex Rooflines - with multiple peaks and angles

Even if two timber homes are the same size, a house with intricate timberwork and unique design features will cost more per square foot than a simpler rectangular design.

Your foundation and roof costs are based on total coverage, not just living space. Additional porches, garages, or a complex roofline mean more materials and labor. A home with multiple corners and jogs in the floor plan will look more visually interesting-but will also cost more than a basic rectangular home.

One of the biggest factors affecting cost per square foot is the quality of materials and finishes you choose:

• Log Species – 12x12 vs 8x8
• Flooring – Reclaimed wood, tile, or premium hardwoods cost more than standard materials.
• Fireplaces & Stonework – Natural stone, custom mantels, and floor-to-ceiling designs add significant costs.
• Custom Cabinetry – Handcrafted cabinetry and built-ins cost more than standard options
• Walk-out Basements - vs non walk-outs same square footage but the walk out wall may have stone, and window and doors

The state you build in can have a huge impact on your overall cost. For example:

• Building in Colorado may cost 30% more than building in Texas due to differences in labor costs, material availability, and local building codes.
• Mountainous or remote locations often require higher transportation costs and specialized construction techniques.

When comparing log and timber home costs, don't get caught up in price per square foot. Instead, focus on the design, materials, craftsmanship, and location.

A well-planned custom home isn't just about numbers - it's an investment in beauty, durability, and quality. If you want a home that stands the test of time, it's important to look beyond square footage and ask the right questions.

The team here at Golden Eagle log and Timber homes has designed and built over 6000 homes in North America since 1966 so rest assured we can help you and your family with your new dream home.

A great way to dig into what our homes cost is to look at any of our online floor plans. Almost every floor plan has prices at the bottom of the page. You can learn a lot by studying them. Please give me a call and I can help you understand the complexities of pricing Log homes and Timber Homes

Here is a funny thought, next time you go to buy a new car ask the dealership how much per square foot the cars cost. A luxury SUV and a Minivan may take up the same space in a parking lot, but their value isn't just about size - it's about what's inside, the craftsmanship, the look and style, and the experience they offer.