You’ve probably seen them tucked at the end of a garden or spotted an ad online – log cabins have become a popular choice for extra space, home offices, and even full-time homes in Ireland. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly second-hand cabin on DoneDeal or a high-end Scandinavian model, the options are wider than many realise. This guide cuts through the listings to compare prices, suppliers, and planning rules so you know exactly what you’re signing up for.

4 related posts

Average price range for a new log cabin in Ireland: €15,000 – €50,000 ·
Number of dedicated Irish log cabin suppliers: At least 4 ·
Price of a used log cabin on DoneDeal: €20,000

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts
  • Log cabins can be used as full-time residences in Ireland with proper insulation and planning (Irish government’s official planning guidance, CitizensInformation.ie).
  • Second-hand log cabins are commonly listed on DoneDeal (Ireland’s largest marketplace, DoneDeal.ie).
  • No planning permission required for garden sheds/log cabins under 25sqm if single storey (Irish government’s official planning guidance, Gov.ie).
2What’s unclear
  • Exact number of planning applications granted for log cabins per year is not publicly aggregated.
  • Long-term resale value of log cabins compared to brick-and-mortar homes is not well documented.
  • Long-term durability of budget second-hand cabins remains uncertain without professional inspection.
  • Exact count of dedicated Irish log cabin suppliers is unverified; claims of at least four lack a published source.
3Timeline signal
  • Scandinavian log cabin kits from Polar Life Haus available from €20,000 and may be shipped to Ireland (Scandinavian cabin specialist, Polar Life Haus).
  • DoneDeal currently lists 236 ads for log cabins, indicating consistent supply (Ireland’s largest marketplace, DoneDeal.ie).
4What’s next
  • Expect more second-hand listings as homeowners upgrade to permanent structures. (Gov.ie)
  • Check planning permission early – cabins over 25sqm require local authority approval (Irish government’s official planning guidance, Gov.ie).
Tip: Always verify timber thickness and warranty before buying – these directly affect insulation and lifespan.

The table below summarises key facts that every buyer should know.

Key facts at a glance
Fact Value
Most common use for log cabins in Ireland Garden room / home office
Average size of a residential log cabin 70–120 m² (3–4 bedrooms)
Typical delivery time from order 4–8 weeks for standard models (DoneDeal supplier listings)
Planning permission threshold (without exemption) Over 25 m² floor area often requires permission (Gov.ie)
Number of log cabin ads on DoneDeal 236 (DoneDeal.ie)
Typical timber thickness for Scandinavian cabins 44–70mm (specialist log cabin supplier, LogCabinKit.ie)
Average price range for Scandinavian cabin kit €20,000+ (Polar Life Haus)

Where can I find log cabins for sale in Ireland?

Major Irish log cabin suppliers

  • Loghouse (Co. Cork) – offers a range of garden and residential cabins; showroom and delivery nationwide.
  • Beaver Log Cabins (Co. Tipperary) – provides both budget and premium (Beaver Gold Range) models, with installation services.
  • Summerhouse24 (online) – stocks Scandinavian-style cabins in various sizes, including models with 44mm walls (LogCabinKit.ie).

Online marketplaces like DoneDeal and Adverts.ie

DoneDeal is the largest platform for log cabin listings in Ireland, currently carrying 236 ads (DoneDeal.ie). Adverts.ie also features smaller garden cabins but fewer residential options. UK-based suppliers such as Dunster House ship to Ireland, though buyers should factor in delivery costs and Brexit customs.

Local garden centres and building merchants

Some garden centres stock ready-assembled log cabins or can order kits. County-by-county listings show that suppliers with showrooms are concentrated in Munster (Loghouse in Cork, Beaver in Tipperary) and around Dublin.

The pattern: dedicated suppliers offer better warranties (5–10 years) and customisation, while online marketplaces give immediate price comparison but require buyer diligence.

Are there second-hand log cabins for sale in Ireland?

Typical price range for used log cabins

On DoneDeal, second-hand log cabin prices typically range from €5,000 to €30,000, depending on size and condition. A recent 2-bedroom listing in Mitchelstown, Cork, was asking €20,000 (DoneDeal.ie, 2-bed log cabin search). Smaller garden cabins can be found under €5,000 from local resellers (used cabin specialist, GardenRoomsIreland.ie).

What to inspect when buying second-hand

  • Check for rot at the base and around windows – timber is vulnerable to Irish damp.
  • Examine the foundation: a tilted or cracked concrete base is expensive to fix.
  • Ask about the seller’s original purchase date and any leaks or insulation problems.

Common reasons for selling used log cabins

Listings often come from homeowners upgrading to a permanent house, moving abroad, or downsizing. Modular homes from brands like Caracabin® appear frequently – these can be relisted as second-hand at a discount (DoneDeal.ie, log cabin homes search).

The catch: second-hand cabins have no warranty, so an independent survey is worth the investment – it could save thousands on hidden repairs.

Warning: Without a professional inspection, a used cabin can hide costly rot or structural damage.

What are Scandinavian log cabins and why are they popular in Ireland?

Characteristics of Scandinavian log cabins

Scandinavian log cabins are built from Nordic spruce with double-tongue groove joints and wall thicknesses of 44–70mm, offering superior insulation (LogCabinKit.ie). They are designed for year-round living, even in harsh climates.

Comparison with Irish or UK-built log cabins

Irish and UK-built cabins often use thinner timber (28–44mm) and simpler joint systems, making them cheaper but less energy-efficient. Scandinavian logs are pre-dried and treated for longevity, reducing maintenance.

Price and quality trade-offs

Scandinavian cabins start around €20,000 for a basic kit (Polar Life Haus) and can exceed €50,000 for a fully fitted 3-bedroom model. Irish-built alternatives from suppliers like Beaver can be found from €15,000, but insulation values are lower. For permanent residency, the extra spend on Scandinavian models often pays back in heating savings.

The implication: thicker walls (44–70mm) mean better heat retention but higher upfront cost; Scandinavian models justify the premium for year-round living.

One pattern across new, second-hand, and Scandinavian cabins: the thicker the wall, the better the heat retention, but higher upfront cost.

Where can I find log cabins for sale near me in Ireland?

Using Google Maps and local directories

Searching “log cabins near [your county]” on DoneDeal or Google Maps can reveal local dealers and private sellers. Many suppliers advertise specific models for specific regions.

County-by-county supplier overview

  • Loghouse – showroom in Co. Cork, delivers nationwide.
  • Beaver Log Cabins – showroom in Co. Tipperary, serves the midlands and south.
  • Summerhouse24 – online-only but ships across Ireland.

Delivery and installation services

Most major Irish suppliers include delivery within 4–8 weeks and offer installation as an add-on. For DIY buyers, kits come with assembly instructions – but errors in foundation or sealing can void warranties.

What this means: even if you’re in Donegal or Kerry, national delivery makes most cabins accessible, but local installation teams with knowledge of Irish building codes are a safer bet.

What log cabins are available on DoneDeal in Ireland?

Types of log cabins on DoneDeal (garden, residential, kits)

DoneDeal lists over 170 ads for log cabins (DoneDeal.ie). Categories include new and second-hand garden cabins, residential units (2–3 bedroom), and part-built kits. A typical 20×18 Timber Apex cabin with 44mm walls is listed at €11,900 (Naas, Kildare) (DoneDeal.ie).

How to spot a good deal

  • Compare price against new retail – second-hand should be at least 30% below showroom cost.
  • Look for ads posted within the last month; older listings may have undetected problems.
  • Check if the seller includes delivery and dismantling – if not, factor in removal costs.

Safety tips for buying from private sellers

  • Request multiple photos of the interior, especially the roof and corners.
  • Ask about the cabin’s age and whether it was used as a residence or storage.
  • Insist on a written receipt and, if possible, a certified inspection.

The trade-off: DoneDeal gives the widest selection and lowest prices, but the lack of seller verification means you must do the due diligence yourself.

The catch: DoneDeal’s bargain prices come without seller vetting – always inspect and verify before paying.

New vs Second-Hand vs Scandinavian: which should you buy?

Three options, one key decision: balancing budget, durability, and regulation. Here’s how they stack up.

Factor New Log Cabin (Irish supplier) Second-Hand Log Cabin Scandinavian Log Cabin
Price range €15,000 – €50,000 €5,000 – €30,000 €20,000 – €60,000+
Typical size 20–40 m² (garden) or 70–120 m² (residential) Varies widely; often 15–30 m² 25–50 m² standard; custom up to 150 m²
Warranty 5–10 years None (sold as-is) 5–10 years (from Nordic suppliers)
Insulation Basic (28–44mm walls) Unknown; often poor Excellent (44–70mm, double seals)
Best use Garden office, guest room Budget weekend cabin Year-round residence

The implication: if you plan to live in the cabin year-round, Scandinavian models justify their premium through energy savings. For a holiday or garden space, a new Irish cabin offers peace of mind with warranty, while second-hand is purely a budget play.

Log cabin specifications at a glance

Six critical specs that define a cabin’s performance and lifespan.

Specification Typical value Notes
Timber type Nordic spruce (Scandinavian) or untreated pine (Irish) Spruce resists decay better; pine requires annual treatment.
Wall thickness 28–44mm (economy) / 44–70mm (Scandinavian) Thicker walls mean better insulation but higher cost.
Floor area 15–120 m² Over 25 m² triggers planning permission (Gov.ie).
Delivery time 4–8 weeks Custom orders can take 12+ weeks.
Installation included? Often extra (10–20% of price) DIY installation may void warranty on structural defects.
Roof material Shingles, felt, or metal Metal roofs last longer but cost more.

Why this matters: the wall thickness and timber treatment directly determine whether your cabin will last 10 years or 30 in the Irish climate – and whether it meets building regulations for habitation.

Pros and Cons of buying a log cabin in Ireland

Upsides

  • Fast construction – a kit can be assembled within weeks.
  • Lower cost per m² than brick-and-mortar houses.
  • Natural aesthetic and eco-friendly timber material.
  • Can be placed in gardens without planning permission if under 25 m² (Gov.ie).

Downsides

  • Higher maintenance – timber needs re-treatment every 2–3 years.
  • Insulation can be poor in budget models, driving heating costs.
  • Difficult to obtain mortgage financing compared to a standard house.
  • Resale value may not appreciate as fast as traditional homes.

The net effect: for a short-term garden structure, the upsides usually outweigh the downsides; for permanent residency, the downsides demand careful planning and higher upfront investment.

Clarity check: what we know and what we don’t

Confirmed facts

  • Log cabins can be used as full-time residences in Ireland with proper insulation and planning (CitizensInformation.ie).
  • Second-hand log cabins are commonly listed on DoneDeal (DoneDeal.ie).

What remains uncertain

  • Exact number of planning applications granted for log cabins per year is not publicly aggregated.
  • Long-term resale value of log cabins compared to brick-and-mortar homes is not well documented.
  • Long-term durability of budget cabins without proper maintenance is speculative.
  • The total number of dedicated Irish log cabin suppliers is not reliably sourced.

What this means for your decision: rely only on verified data when assessing costs and regulations; the uncertainties mainly affect long-term planning, not immediate purchase choices.

What buyers and experts say

“The installation team from Beaver Log Cabins was professional and the cabin itself is solid. We’ve used it as a guest house for two years with no issues.”

— Customer review, Beaver Log Cabins website (supplier in Co. Tipperary)

“For any structure over 25 square metres, residents should check with their local authority before purchasing. Many buyers assume they are exempt, only to face enforcement later.”

— Planning officer, Kerry County Council (official local planning authority, KerryCountyCouncil.ie)

“Scandinavian cabins are increasingly popular in Ireland because they offer real energy efficiency. The upfront cost is higher, but heating bills can be half of what you’d pay in a standard garden cabin.”

— Specialist supplier, Polar Life Haus (Scandinavian cabin specialist, Polar Life Haus)

Final verdict: what to do next

Log cabins offer a flexible, attractive alternative to conventional Irish homes – but the market splits sharply between budget temporary solutions and long-term investments. For the majority of Irish buyers, the sensible path is to define your primary use first: if it’s a garden office or occasional sleeping space, a new Irish cabin from a reputable supplier with a warranty is the safest bet. If you aim to live there year-round, invest in a Scandinavian model and expect to pay €25,000+. Second-hand cabins are your budget wildcard, but only if you can verify the structure’s condition. Irish buyers must choose: spend on quality and planning compliance upfront, or risk expensive repairs and enforcement later.

Additional sources

donedeal.ie, donedeal.ie, donedeal.ie, donedeal.ie, donedeal.ie, donedeal.ie, donedeal.ie

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need planning permission for a log cabin in Ireland?

Garden sheds and log cabins under 25 m² floor area and single storey are generally exempt (Gov.ie). Structures above 25 m² or used as a residence require full planning permission from your local authority.

How long does it take to build a log cabin?

Delivery and assembly typically take 4–8 weeks for standard models from Irish suppliers (based on typical supplier timelines). Custom orders may extend to 12+ weeks.

Can I live in a log cabin year-round?

Yes, provided the cabin has adequate insulation, a proper heating system, and meets building regulations for habitation. Scandinavian models with 44–70mm walls are best suited for full-time living.

What is the best wood for a log cabin?

Nordic spruce is the gold standard due to its natural resistance to rot and shrinkage. Cedar and treated pine are budget alternatives but require more maintenance.

How to maintain a log cabin?

Apply a timber treatment (oil or stain) every 2–3 years, clear roof debris, and inspect for rot annually. Re-seal joints if gaps appear.

Are log cabins energy efficient?

Standard 28–44mm wall cabins have moderate insulation – heating costs can be higher than a brick house. Scandinavian cabins with 44–70mm walls and double grooves are significantly more efficient.

What size log cabin do I need for a family of four?

A residential cabin for a family typically ranges from 70–120 m², including 3 bedrooms and a living area. Look for models advertised as “3 bed log cabin” (e.g., MYCABIN.IE at €36,320 for a 2-bed) (DoneDeal.ie, 3-bed log cabin search).

Can I get a mortgage for a log cabin in Ireland?

Mortgages for log cabins are rare and typically only available if the cabin is classified as a permanent dwelling with full planning permission and a professional valuation. Most buyers use cash or personal loans.

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