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Base For Log Cabins

Ground Screw Base

Log Cabin Base

Which log cabin base is right for you? See our log cabin base guide below.

Which log cabin base should I choose?


If you're looking to build a log cabin, you'll no doubt already have identified the perfect location for your new timber building. While you may have found a design and a size that you love, it's important to remember that all successful garden buildings will have one key thing in common: a stable, flat and solid base. Timber cabins can be heavy, and it's vital that the base can both take the weight, and allow all windows and doors to be opened and closed properly.

Fail to get the base right, and you could be faced with all sorts of problems: logs that sit badly, a roof that could crack, warp or split, or gaps forming between the logs.

There are three main methods that are used to create a sturdy, solid base for timber garden buildings: concrete, paving slabs, and decking.

Log Cabin Base: Concrete

Concrete log cabin bases are a good choice where the ground is very soft, as it will help to spread the cabin's load. Generally, a frame will be constructed from a material like timber or steel and filled with hardcore, before the concrete is poured in and left to set. It is important to give the concrete a good amount of time to set before installing your new timber building, so be sure to plan it well in advance. Typically, a concrete base is laid via a simple process of constructing a ‘shuttered’ space before filling the inside space with your concrete, and allowing it to set. Steelwork, or reinforced bars, may be included to help provide further solidity and strength. A key consideration with this method is ensuring the mixture is correct and will ‘go off’ properly - consult professionals on the suitable and appropriate mix. As the finished base will form a complete footing for your log cabin, guaranteeing it is level is of paramount importance. Permanent in its nature, it is vital to get the base right first time, including the level and an even finish, to avoid costly removal and reworking.

Log Cabin Base: Concrete With Rubber Trim

Rubberised trim to prevent moisture ingress at Sides

Log Cabin Base: Timber Framed

Temporary in nature and easy to construct, a timber base will typically sit freely on stone or other solid footings, lifting the cabin and permitting air to circulate beneath it. This helps with cabin longevity and lifespan.

In addition, adjustments to the cabin can be made with relative ease - where the setting is on uneven ground, you can jack up the structure to tweak it’s setup if slight subsidence occurs, or overcome any slopes or camber that might be prevalent in your space. In comparison to concrete, it is very easy to lay a timber frame base with minimal machinery or plant equipment needed. Furthermore, as a natural material, timber has a far-reduced impact on the environment and is renewable in nature.

Log Cabin Base: Pillar and Base

Ideal for sloping sites where it is difficult to establish a uniform or level base for the log cabin, pillar bases comprise a series of concrete pad foundations, with brick or blockwork on top that help to achieve the specific desired height at each corner or point of the cabin.Pillars can often be cheaper than a solid concrete base - using considerably less material to construct - and, like the timber frame option, allow access underneath the structure, as well as enabling better air circulation. There is, however, an implication for the load-bearing requirements of the cabin, as the weight is spread across numerous set points, meaning care must be taken to ensure suitable distribution.

Log Cabin Base: Ground Screws

Working in a similar way to concrete blockwork or pillars, the helical ‘screw’ fastens deeply into the ground, providing a steady and solid base for the cabin to sit atop. Capable of withstanding more than enough weight to effectively position your cabin, the screw pile is cheaper, cost-effective and, potentially crucially, quicker to install than concrete footings or blockwork, with none of the wait times typically experienced while waiting for the concrete to set. Adaptable and easy to install, able to be fitted in any ground type, the screws can help overcome uneven surfaces.


Our 60-160 cm long ground screws are just as stable. No digging or concreting needed. No damage to the surrounding areas. In addition, you can get started with your building project immediately after the screws are in place. Our certified technicians will perform the job quickly and accurately whatever your construction project.

Log Cabin Base: Paving Slab/patio Base

This method is often used if the ground where the cabin is to be built is particularly uneven. What's more, if built to cover a larger area than the cabin itself, it can provide a great terraced area to sit outside. Supported by paving slabs to spread the load, decking is not only eco-friendly, but it's also affordable, and easy to move and repin should subsidence occur. What's more, it can also be easily moved should you need to for any reason.

Log Cabin Base: Decking

This method is often used if the ground where the cabin is to be built is particularly uneven. What's more, if built to cover a larger area than the cabin itself, it can provide a great terraced area to sit outside. Supported by paving slabs to spread the load, decking is not only eco-friendly, but it's also affordable, and easy to move and repin should subsidence occur. What's more, it can also be easily moved should you need to for any reason.


Our 60-160 cm long ground screws are just as stable. No digging or concreting needed. No damage to the surrounding areas. In addition, you can get started with your building project immediately after the screws are in place. Our certified technicians will perform the job quickly and accurately whatever your construction project.