What Should You Include on Your Log Home Maintenance Checklist?
Do you have your log home maintenance checklist ready? Your dream log home was one of the biggest investments you have made. Regular maintenance will help protect your investment and prevent expensive damage to your home. There are a few things you can do to make sure your home stays in optimal condition. Log homes require unique care compared to more traditional homes.
4 Items You Should Include on Your Log Home Maintenance Checklist.
Schedule an Annual Maintenance Inspection
One of the most important items you should include on your log home maintenance checklist is to have an annual inspection done by a professional. This can help you save time and money on repairs before serious issues develop. A log home professional is trained to look for specific problems you may not be aware of or notice. By spotting and correcting problems early, you can save yourself from numerous headaches and unnecessary expenses in the future.
Protect Your Log Home Against Insects
Insects can cause significant harm to the structural integrity and stability of your log home. When going through your log home maintenance checklist, be sure to look for new small holes in the logs and evidence of sawdust that can be left behind by boring insects.. If detected, immediately take the corrective action as advised by a professional pest exterminator. There are several products you can use to help fight insect damage. Your local pest exterminator will be the best source for preventative and corrective action based on the type of insects in your area. .
When building your log home, you can use logs that are naturally insect repellant such as the cedar logs used by Sierra Log & Timber. To keep insects away, keep firewood, trees and shrubs at a distance from your log home. If you are currently experiencing an insect infestation, a log home professional can recommend the best treatment solutions depending on the bugs in your home.
Seal Cracks and Crevices
Cracks and crevices are not only inviting to insects but can let in drafts and allow water damage. When water seeps in, mold and mildew can develop that can rot the wood. Remove any caulking that is peeling and replace damaged portions of logs or entire logs when necessary. Check for water stains and make sure gutters are operating correctly and are disposing of the water away from the building. As part of your log home maintenance checklist, make sure to caulk crevices with an airtight seal.
Inspect Your Roof
A damaged roof can lead to numerous expensive repairs if left unchecked. You should plan to include having your roof inspected professionally at least once a year on your log home maintenance checklist. Replace any broken or missing shingles and make any other necessary repairs.
5 Easy Log Home Maintenance Tips
Log homes are beautiful and unique, but they require a bit more attention and care than your average home. With the summer months upon us, now is the perfect time to do some routine log house maintenance. Taking care of your log cabin now will help you avoid bigger problems down the road and keep it looking its best. Here are 5 easy log home maintenance tips that will help you keep your log home looking good all summer long.
Apply a Fresh Coat of Stain or Sealant
Even though applying sunblock to your home may seem strange, wood is prone to UV-ray deterioration, just like your skin. When logs are exposed to harsh sun rays, they can break down. For your log home maintenance, use pigmented stains and products that are infused with UV-blocking agents to minimize the effects of sun damage on your log home.
Keep Landscaping Away From the Wood
One important aspect of log home maintenance is keeping landscaping at least three feet away from the exterior walls. This helps to prevent moisture damage, as well as weed, mold, and insect infestations. Log homes are made of porous wood, which can absorb water from the ground or rainwater from gutters and eaves. Once the water is in the wood, it can cause the logs to rot or attract insects.
In addition, landscaping close to the house can also damage the exterior finish and promote the growth of mold and mildew. By staying on top of your log house maintenance and keeping landscaping at a distance, you can help to protect your log home from damage and ensure that it will last for generations.
Examine Your Property For Any Signs of Mold and Mildew
One of the most important aspects of log home maintenance is to regularly examine the logs for any signs of mold or mildew. Mold buildup is common in log cabins that are not sealed properly or that are in humid areas with little sunlight. These fungal growths can cause serious damage to the logs, leading to rot and structural instability. Fortunately, mold and mildew can be easily removed with the right cleaners and chemicals. However, if left unchecked, they can quickly spread and cause extensive damage. For this reason, it is important to inspect your log home regularly and take action immediately if you see any signs of mold or mildew.
Check If Your Sealent Is Still Working
Making sure your sealant is still working needs to be on your summer log cabin maintenance checklist regardless how recent or long ago you got your home sealed. This can be done by administering the water test. If water beads on the surface of the logs, then the sealant is still working. However, if the water is absorbed into the wood, then it is time to apply a new coat of sealant. By adding sealant testing to your log home maintenance list each summer, you can help to extend the life of your log cabin and keep it looking its best.
Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
Keeping the gutters and downspouts clean is important for any home, especially log cabins. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and pool around the foundation of the home, potentially causing serious damage. Downspouts that are not clear can also allow water to seep into the home, causing mold and mildew to grow. In addition, clogged gutters can provide a breeding ground for insects, which can then infest your log cabin. By taking the time to clean your gutters and downspouts on a regular basis, you can help protect your log cabin from water damage and pests.use
Need Help with Your Log Home Maintenance Checklist?
Sierra Log and Timber makes sure your home is in optimal condition from the start. Sierra Log & Timber can help you with the best pre-made and customized designs for your dream home.
Our team at Sierra Log and Timber understands that log home maintenance is essential to preserving its beauty and longevity. By following these five easy tips, you can keep your home in great condition and avoid costly repairs down the road. If you’re interested in learning more about preserving your log cabin home before it is even built, please contact us. Our team of experts can work with you to create a pre-made or customized log cabin home that will last for generations. Contact us today for a consultation.
