Log houses and timber-framed dwellings are long-lasting buildings. These structures have the ability to survive for generations and serve as stunning and dramatic presentations for both builders and homeowners. Both approaches employ solid timber building components rather than dimensional lumber. The materials used in their construction include pine, oak, hickory, and maple trees. These types of homes were common before the advent of metal tools when wood was the only available material for construction. Even today, many rural farmers and others without access to modern building materials choose to build log or timber frame houses because they're affordable and easy to construct with traditional tools. The basic principle behind log and timber homes is that any structure can be made stronger by adding more cross-members (with the exception of window seats and doors, which act as hollow spaces) and tying them all together with horizontal trusses. This distribution of weight helps prevent damage to the house during an earthquake or other form of natural disaster. Over time, these homes will naturally decay due to exposure to the elements unless they're properly maintained. However, the logs themselves are stable enough that they don't need to be treated with chemicals to prevent rot. Instead, they should be coated or stained for aesthetic purposes.