Regular cleaning will keep dirt, mildew, and mold from clinging to the logs. Scrub problem spots with a 50/50 water and bleach solution using a scrub brush.
Annual washing will also help extend the life of the stains and sealants on your log cabin. It also offers an excellent opportunity to inspect and repair any caulking or chinking that needs attention.
- Inspect the Exterior
Broken bow cabins require routine inspections, just like any other construction, to keep their attractiveness and guard against rot and insect infestation. Washing, staining, and chinking are regular care that can significantly impact.
Begin by examining the exterior walls for signs of mold, mildew or fungus, discoloration, and the condition of the caulking (chinking). In addition, check the log ends and corners to ensure they are not showing any signs of rot.
Look for shingle damage, sagging roof lines, and any areas where the wood is in contact with the ground. You also want to ensure the gutters are clear of debris and funnel water away from the home. Finally, check the roof for ice dams and shingle damage caused by snow.
- Inspect the Interior
Moisture is an enemy of log cabins, and if not managed properly, it can cause damage both inside and out. Inspecting regularly for mildew, soft spots, or insect activity helps nip problems in the bud before they become significant issues.
Check the chinking and caulking regularly, especially around windows and doors. Over time, this material can shrink and shift, causing gaps to form. It can lead to air and water leaks as well as pest infestations. Inspecting the chinking, caulking, and replacing it when necessary is an easy and inexpensive part of regular maintenance.
Staining your log cabin every 3-4 years is vital to protect it from sun exposure and moisture. An oil-based stain is recommended, but always consult the manufacturer’s recommendations for color and humidity levels in your area.
- Clean the Logs
One of the biggest reasons people love log cabins is the snug fit that helps keep out cold air and heat. However, the fit can loosen over time, and it is essential to check this regularly. A simple process like using caulking will help preserve your cabin for years to come.
Take a walk around your home and look for any spots of moisture or rot that have been allowed to remain too long. Clean these with a mixture of water and bleach, and rinse thoroughly. Oxalic acid cleaners are also suitable for removing iron stains and leave more color in the wood than chlorine bleach.
The natural checking and cracking of logs can be repaired using caulking, backer rods, and borate rods. Maintaining these conditions will shield your cabin against wood decay and mold over time.
- Clean the Gutters
Keeping your gutters clean and funneling water away from your cabin is vital. Check for leaks and ensure the chinking (a caulk) is in good shape in all areas, especially around the windows, doors, and roof connections.
Look for dark patches where rain has splattered back on the logs, allowing mold or mildew to grow. It can be easily fixed by scrubbing with a brush and a 50/50 bleach/water solution, then rinsing off the area.
Over time, excessive moisture can cause severe damage to your log home. Monitor this carefully by checking the wood for rot or crack, adjusting sprinklers that spray on the logs, ensuring proper gutters and splashback protection, trimming greenery, and using a dehumidifier where needed.
- Seal the Cracks
By consistently carrying out routine maintenance, wood can be kept in impeccable condition, preventing the need for costly restoration. Check your log cabin regularly for signs of insect activity and wood damage. A visual inspection can also reveal how the gutters funnel moisture away from the home or whether the chinking or caulking is coming loose.
Final Words
If you notice dark spots or stains on your logs, water splashes back onto the records and wears down the paint. This wear could allow mold or mildew to grow, which will cause the wood to rot and need to be replaced. Look for ways to change your landscaping so that rain doesn’t splash back onto the logs, or consider adding a gutter system. Stain your logs about every 3-4 years to protect them from UV rays and the elements. More
