There are a number of common myths regarding log homes that unfairly affect perceptions of people who might otherwise enjoy the log home life. Many of these myths have gotten an honest start sometime in the past but are no longer true.

Myth #1: Log homes are dark and gloomy. The truth: In Abraham Lincoln's day, yes. Today, no. Log homes today tend to have large expansive windows, skylights, well-designed lighting systems, and optional light-colored interior walls.

Myth #2: Log homes are cold and drafty. The truth: This is another perception that comes from many years ago. Today's log homes are professionally engineered and built to be energy efficient and draft-free.

Myth #3: Log homes require a lot of maintenance. The truth: This is partially true but log homes typically require no more maintenace than any other type of wood-sided and wood-framed home. Maintenance usually means periodic cleaning and application of protectant stains.

Myth #4: Log homes cost more to build. The truth: Log homes are typically custom-built homes, not mass produced conventional spec homes -- and therefore cost more, but generally no more than other type of custom home. Handcrafted homes can cost more.

Myth #5: Log homes are hard to finance. The truth: Some banks don't like to finance log homes because they are unfamiliar with log home construction. However, there is no shortage of other local banks and national lending companies who are comfortable with log homes and are eager to loan money, especially in areas where log homes are common.

Myth #6: Log home walls settle and cause problems. The truth: Again, this is mostly old information. Modern logs are thoroughly dried before used for construction, making them virtually free of the problems of the past. However, some settling is still possible, and most log home builders use special techniques to compensate.

Myth #7: Log homes are fireproof. The truth: This is not quite true but solid log walls do withstand fire much better than conventional framed walls. This fact probably doesn't matter much, however, if the only thing standing after a major fire are the charred walls.

Myth #8: Log homes are stronger than conventional homes. The truth: This is almost completely true, because it's actually the massive log walls that provide strength. Even though other parts of a log home may not be as strong as the walls, the walls tend to hold everything together in times of storms or earthquakes.

Myth #9: It's difficult to find log home builders. The truth: Not true at all, especially in areas where log homes are common. Many builders specialize in log homes or have log home experience. When a log home builder is not available, conventional builders can learn from seminars and construction manuals provided by log home companies.

Myth #10: Log homes are only for eccentrics/retirees/vacation lovers/empty-nesters. The truth: Modern log homes have grown up and are no more simply small vacation cabins. They are full-time residences for families with children, often in conventional neighborhoods, with all the conveniences and luxuries of any other type of home.

Al Hearn is owner and operator of Log Home Advisor (http://www.LogHomeAdvisor.com) where log home enthusiasts can find helpful log home articles, information, expert advice, planning tools, cost estimators, and affordability calculators.