Considering a cedar home...

[arctichomesteader]

Perhaps I have too critical an eye, I can almost always tell those woodgrained non-wood sidings aren't wood.

But whatever makes you happy, go for it...

[steve327]

I am going to be building a log home, spruce though, not cedar, I have lots of spruce trees available where I'll build.

Just passing by and noticed this thread.....In my business I am involved with a LOT of people messing about with boats; they have learned that some woods rot more readily than others. Cedar is much more rot resistant than spruce. I appreciate that you have a lot of spruce, and it is tempting to use it. If you want a more rot-resistant life, I would suggest that you reconsider your choice of wood.

There are many wood-restoration impregnating epoxy products available out there, and really good ones, too; just do an Internet search and you will easily find effective products. With Western Red Cedar you will use a little bit once in a while. With Spruce you will use a lot, and often.

One more thing about Cedar...Alaskan Yellow Cedar heartwood is very rot-resistant, but the sapwood rots so fast it will make your head spin.

Information about the rot resistance of various wood species may be found in the "Wood Handbook, published by the Forest Products Laboratory of the U. S. Department of Agriculture". Just put everything in quotes into Google and it will take you right there.

[jadybug]

Originally Posted by teatime

All I know about cedar is that it attracts bugs. I would NEVER use cedar mulch because of this! I'd expect that a cedar house would have to be seriously treated and bug-proofed!

I L-O-V-E a cedar house!!

jady-bug

[hcgCali]

Originally Posted by teatime
All I know about cedar is that it attracts bugs.

Then what's the point of cedar closets???

[texdav]

A vapor barrier is always better. Either plastic or felt as used in roofing in 15-20 lb is fine. If you look at any siding companies site even wood they will specify a vapor barrier. The breathing inside of the walls is entirely a different matter.The same as when to put a vapor barrier in the inside of walls and ceiling in climates where the insdie of the house will be warmer than the outside thru most of the year. Even insulaton suppliers have this instruction .Alot of inside moisture is caused by these temprrature differences. One reason mold is worse in some homes not properly done.Hardie plank IMO is much preferable to wood and it has the advantage of being sealed by primer on both sides.

[Sandhills Guru]

Any wood/log structure is going to see bugs. The crevices in this natural building technique makes excellent homes for them.

As far as cedar homes, my experience with any log home, keep it sealed from outside elements and you are ahead of the game.

Go for it, enjoy.