When you imagine your dream log home nestled in the mountains or overlooking a tranquil lake, the first image that comes to mind might be the warm, natural look of logs stacked in perfect harmony. But did you know that not all log homes are created equal? One of the most important early decisions you’ll make is choosing the log profile—the shape and corner style of the logs used in your home’s construction.
At Blue Ridge Log & Timber Homes, we help customers across the U.S. navigate this key design choice. As an independent dealer for Honest Abe Log Homes, we offer a variety of log profiles including:
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Square logs with dovetail corners
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Square logs with chinking and dovetail corners
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D-logs with dovetail or butt-and-pass corners
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10” round logs with Swedish cope
Each profile brings a unique combination of aesthetic appeal, energy performance, and maintenance requirements. So how do you choose?
D-Logs: A Popular Choice for Traditional Cabin Charm
The D-log profile is one of the most requested log shapes among our customers—and for good reason. One side of the log is flat (for interior wall installation), while the other is curved, giving the exterior a classic log cabin look.
Pros:
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Classic appearance: The curved exterior offers that iconic log home silhouette.
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Smooth interior walls: Easier to hang art or furniture against flat surfaces.
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Efficient construction: Fits snugly together for good insulation performance.
Cons:
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Limited wood exposure inside: Some homeowners want a fully rustic interior.
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Maintenance: Like all profiles, regular staining and sealing are required to protect against weathering.
“We chose the D-log profile for our own home because it gave us that authentic mountain cabin look we dreamed of, with a cleaner interior wall surface that works well with our open-concept layout.” —Lou Pagano, Owner, Blue Ridge Log & Timber Homes
Square Logs: Clean Lines, Historic Appeal
Square logs with dovetail corners bring a refined, historic elegance to log home design. Their stacked, flat-sided construction is reminiscent of pioneer cabins but with a modern edge.
Pros:
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Tight dovetail corners: Known for structural integrity and minimal air infiltration.
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Modern meets rustic: Sharp, clean lines contrast beautifully with natural textures.
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Chinking optional: Choose between a tight fit or add white chinking for dramatic contrast.
Cons:
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More formal appearance: May not appeal to those seeking a purely rustic look.
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Chinking maintenance (if used): Must be inspected regularly for cracks or separation.
For those who love the chinked look, square logs with dovetailed corners and chinking add a touch of Americana. This is a favorite among customers restoring historic homes or building commercial spaces like bed-and-breakfasts or retail shops.
Round Logs with Swedish Cope: Rustic and Robust
If you’re dreaming of the classic wilderness lodge, nothing beats the bold look of 10-inch round logs with Swedish cope. These logs interlock with a concave cut that allows them to nestle securely on top of one another.
Pros:
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Striking aesthetics: Bold curves and deep textures for true rustic elegance.
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Natural insulation: Thick logs offer excellent thermal mass for energy efficiency.
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Great for large homes or cabins: Adds dramatic curb appeal.
Cons:
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More wood movement: Round logs are more prone to settling and require thoughtful construction practices.
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Interior curve: Less flat wall space inside may affect furniture placement.
“Round logs make a powerful statement. They’re rugged, beautiful, and timeless. For larger homes or mountain lodges, they’re often the go-to.” —Eileen Pagano, Owner, Blue Ridge Log & Timber Homes
Other Considerations: Corner Styles and Log Sealing
Besides the profile, you’ll want to think about corner styles, which influence both aesthetics and weather performance.
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Dovetail corners: Known for structural strength and tight interlocking joints.
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Butt-and-pass: Easier to build and gives a chunkier, more handcrafted look.
We also work with you to choose the best sealants and stains for your chosen log style, ensuring maximum protection from the elements and longevity for your investment.
Let Blue Ridge Log & Timber Homes Help You Decide
Choosing a log profile is about more than just looks—it’s about how you plan to live in and enjoy your home. Whether you’re building a weekend retreat, a forever home, or a commercial cabin getaway, we guide you from the first sketch to the final stain.
Our team handles the design, delivery, and installation of your log home anywhere in the U.S. With decades of experience and personal insight from building our own log home, we bring unmatched passion and knowledge to every project.
Visit https://blueridgecustomandloghomes.com to view photos of each log profile, or contact us today for a free consultation.