How to finish your log cabin or summerhouse installation

In this guide, we’ll help you understand the steps you need to take to finish your log cabin or summerhouse installation properly, including fitting turn buttons and hook and eye fittings, checking doors and windows, treating the timber and preparing your building for years of enjoyment.

Carry out a final inspection

Before you complete your installation and start decorating or furnishing your new garden building, we recommend carrying out a range of final checks to ensure everything’s in order before you continue. 

Check the following: 

• All wall logs are fully secured 

• Roof boards are securely fixed 

• Roofing material has been fitted correctly 

• Doors and windows open and close smoothly 

• All screws and fixings are secure 

• The building is still level and square 

Catching small issues now can help larger problems from developing later and prevent you from having to remove furniture or decoration to fix it in the future and preserve the longevity of your building.

Allow for natural timber movement

One of the most important things to understand about your log cabin or summerhouse is that timber is a natural material. As your log cabin settles into its environment in the first few weeks after installation, the timber will expand or contract depending on temperature and humidity levels. This is completely normal and to be expected in the first year after installation. 

During installation, you should have left adequate gaps where needed to allow for this expansion and contraction which should mean the logs stay in place without popping out, splitting, cracking or warping. Allowing for these gaps and movement helps to prevent distortion and operational issues with your garden building in the future. 

We recommend keeping an eye on your log or summerhouse for the first few months to check: 

• Door operation

• Window operation 

• Storm kit tension (if fitted) 

• Door hinges 

• Expansion gaps above doors and windows 

You might need to make small adjustments as the building settles so carrying out these checks regularly helps to keep your garden building in the best condition.

Fitting turn buttons

Why do you need turn buttons?

At Tuin, our double door log cabins and summerhouses include turn buttons (or twist locks). These fittings are used to keep the two doors aligned with each other when the building is closed to prevent any unnecessary movement when the building is not in use.

How to fit turn buttons

The turn button should always be fitted to the slave door which is the door secured by top and bottom bolts. 

Firstly, identify the slave door, position the turn buttons so they’re over the edge of the opposite door and screw the turn button in place.

Make sure you don’t overtighten the screw because you still need the latch to be able to rotate freely. 

With the turn buttons installed on the slave door, it can be latched over the lock housing door when the building is not in use. 

Make sure you don’t overtighten the screw because you’ll need to be able to turn the latch. 

See a full step-by-step guide in our video:

Fitting a hook and eye kit

Every Tuin log cabin and summerhouse is supplied with a pair of hook and eyes. These are metal latches that can help the doors from swinging around in the wind when your log cabin is in use. 

This is particularly useful if you want to use your garden building on a windy day because they will prevent the doors from swinging closed or being blown back against the building, potentially causing damage to the timber.

To install, all you need to do is fully open the door, position the hook where the door naturally sits when it's fully open, mark the fixing positions and screw both components securely into place. 

Repeat this process for the second door if required. 

For a full step-by-step guide, take a look at our video:

Treat your timber as soon as possible

Once you have fully completed the installation, one of the most important jobs is maintaining the timber. If left untreated, your garden building is exposed to moisture, UV rays and weathering, all of which can affect its long-term performance. 

We recommend using a high-quality timber treatment that’s suitable for exterior timber. 

Always treat the following:

• External walls 

• Doors 

• Windows 

• Fascia boards 

• Roof trims 

• Exposed timber ends 

Regular maintenance and treatment will help to keep your log cabin looking and performing it’s best for many years to come. In addition, as part of Tuin’s 10-year guarantee, we ask that you regularly treat your log cabin to ensure it remains protected. 

For more information, read our complete guide: How to treat your timber garden building and ensure longevity.

Your log cabin or summerhouse is ready to enjoy

Your installation is now complete! 

Carrying out the final finishing touches, allowing for natural timber movement and protecting the timber correctly will help you ensure that your log cabin or summerhouse provides you with enjoyment for years to come. 

A log cabin or summerhouse makes the perfect space for a garden office, home gym, hobby room or a space you can use to relax after a long day. Taking the time to get the installation right now will protect your investment and keep your building looking its best. 

If you’d like further advice and guidance, please contact our expert customer service team.