If your log home came with an instruction manual, most of it would be similar to any other home. Your plumbing works the same, your electrical system works the same, your HVAC is the same, even your roof is the same. Each of these systems do require some level of knowledge, such as what to do when a breaker pops, when to change the HVAC filter, or how to fix a leaky faucet. The main difference between a log home and a brick or vinyl home is…the logs.
So, what needs to be done to maintain your logs? I’m glad you asked. The interior of the logs should be coated with some sort of finish to keep the logs from absorbing odors or becoming discolored if something rubs against or is spilled on them. The finish chosen for the interior is not super important, as the interior of the logs experience minimal sun exposure and hopefully zero rain or snow exposure. While polyurethane works fine to protect, be aware that it will yellow over time and will sometimes leave shadows behind wall hangings. A penetrating stain, or poly-acrylic finish is usually a better option. Beyond the finish, simply wiping the logs occasionally to remove dust is really all that is required.
The exterior of the logs is a different story. The exterior of your logs is where the instruction manual would really come in handy. This is the area of the house that sees all of the weather exposure and needs protection. The best protection comes from properly sized overhangs. Covered porches and large soffits do more to protect the exterior of your logs than anything else. Secondly, shade trees also help to protect logs. Finally, the finish applied to your logs and wood surfaces is the last step of defense against the elements.
Depending on the finish chosen, maintenance may differ. Nearly every finish on the market with the exception of solid finishes, require re-coats every 3-5 years. Even solid finishes, while they often boast 10 years + often need to be re-coated much more frequently. We recommend washing your home annually and inspecting it so that you know when your logs are ready for an additional coat. Depending on the condition of the finish presently on the home, it may be able to simply be washed and re-coated, or it may require complete removal of the finish in order to get a fresh start.
Finally, as long as your finish is kept in good shape, the other concerns are mostly keeping the gutters and downspouts cleaned out so that they do not leak and lead to rot, and caulking around doors, windows, and other large gaps that would allow moisture to penetrate into the logs.
If your logs are in need of attention, give Blastmaster a call today (724) 712-5031.