Whether you are a homeowner with a log home, a log home contractor, or a log home buyer, you will want to know the benefits of hiring a wood care specialist for your home’s care. A specialist can help you prevent costly repairs and make your log home look new and beautiful for years to come.
Caulking
During log home maintenance, it is essential to caulk exposed logs. This will prevent moisture from penetrating the home. However, it is optional to caulk logs under porches or overhangs.
The caulking should be applied to the logs in sections. The joint size should be one inch at maximum. A smooth line is important so the caulk will adhere to the upper and lower log. This is also important because it creates a seal between the logs.
Cabins such as those patios Tustin MI are susceptible to insects and wood-boring bees. If these pests get into the cabin, they can cause severe damage. A simple solution is to re-seal the log home. It can be done by yourself, or you can hire a professional.
When doing log home maintenance, it is essential to make sure that you are using the proper sealant. It is best to use a water-based product. It should also be flexible. Caulking is more elastic than chinking.
Staining
Whether building a new home or restoring an older one, choosing a quality stain that will last is important. A high-quality stain will protect your log home against the elements and give it a polished look.
There are two types of stains: oil and water-based. Oil-based stains penetrate the wood deeply. They are usually paraffin or linseed-based oils. They are not as resistant to wear as water-based stains. They are also more challenging to maintain.
Water-based stains are safe to use and easy to clean. They are also non-toxic. They do not last as long as oil-based stains, however.
Following the stain manufacturer’s directions is essential to get the best results. This includes choosing a quality product, cleaning the wood before staining, and applying it correctly. You should also use it on all six sides of the wood and leave at least 24 hours of drying time between coats.
Preventing Premature Rot
Taking the time to do a bit of log home maintenance is the best way to avoid major issues down the road. However, even minor problems can cause significant damage, so it pays to prevent them in the first place.
The best time to do a good job is during the spring. Taking care of minor issues before they turn into big ones can save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
An excellent way to do this is to inspect your roof for leaks. If you see any of these, you’ll want to get them fixed as soon as possible.
Also, check the exterior of your home for water damage. This includes checking the gutters. If your gutters are clogged, water may enter the house. This could lead to rot and mold.
1-2-3 Strategy
Having a maintenance plan in place can save you from an emergency. It will also keep your log home looking its best for years. Luckily, several log home maintenance contractors are qualified to do the job. You should also check with your attorney general’s office to see if any are licensed to work in your state.
As a rule of thumb, a log home will require routine maintenance at least once a year. These maintenance tasks include several technical systems, such as electrical, plumbing, and heating. You should also have a routine inspection of the exterior of your home to identify any signs of aging or moisture damage. Finally, consider installing a gravel breezeway.
Cost of Log Home Maintenance
Having a log home is an investment. You will have to keep up with regular maintenance if you want it to last. Otherwise, you could end up with costly restorations down the road.
Log homes have unique structural and material characteristics that make them more vulnerable to damage from the elements. They are also prone to insects and microorganisms. In addition, the sun’s ultraviolet rays break down the lignin in the wood cells, causing cracks and weathering.
In addition to checking for rot and insect infestation signs, you should also look for leaky gutters, loose flashing, and warped shingles. You should also check the railing for standing water and the wall for signs of mildew.
It would help if you also inspected the windows, doors, and exposed log ends. You can hire a professional if you are uncomfortable performing these tasks yourself.
