Hand-split shakes also make an attractive cabin finish. The rough pioneer effect of the crude shakes is quite in keeping with the wilderness atmosphere. These are applied in much the same manner as ordinary shingles.
[Illustration: Shakes, either hand-split or sawed, should be laid in a definite pattern.]
[Illustration: Here is an example of charming effect obtained by using horizontal and vertical board and batten, combined with stone.]
[Illustration: Any of the methods shown here is a satisfactory way to fit the corners when imitation log siding is used.]
If you undertake the construction of a frame cabin without the assistance of an experienced carpenter or builder, you should keep in mind the minimum requirements set up by the Forest Service as standard specifications for cabins to be built in deep snow country:
All girders should be not less than 4×4 material spaced not more than 7 feet on centers.
All main posts supporting building should be not less than 4×4, spaced not more than 7 feet apart in any direction and should rest on rock or concrete base; this applies to open porches also.
All floor joists (including those under open porches) should be not less than 2×6 material, spaced not over 2 feet on center.
Studding in sidewalls, where siding runs vertically, should be spaced not more than 6 feet on center and should be not less than 2×4 material. At least one 2×4 should be placed around the building, horizontally, between the floor plate and ceiling plate, and the side boards should be securely nailed to this horizontal ribbon as well as the top and bottom plates.
On buildings where siding runs horizontally, studding should be placed not over 2 feet on center on outside walls and be not less than 2×4 material.
Double headers and proper bridging should be installed over all openings in outside walls. This is not necessary in partitions.
Rafters should be spaced not more than 2 feet on center and should be not less than 2×4 material on all spans up to 16 feet. All spans of more than 16 feet should use rafters of not less than 2×6 material and be spaced not more than 2 feet on center. Rafters and other members of the roof frame should be of selected, straight-grain lumber.