Log Cabin Restoration Guide (Renovating Your Wooden Home)
- Inspecting and Repairing Your Log Cabin. Before you begin anything, you need to carry out a thorough inspection of your...
- Cleaning Your Cabin. After you’ve carried out a thorough inspection of your cabin made the necessary repairs, the next...
- Staining Your Cabin. The final step is the restoration of your log...
What to look for in log cabin repair?
- Take a hammer with you and ask for permission to tap on the logs. ...
- A log that is rotting will produce a hollow sound compared to a solid log. ...
- If you suspect that logs are rotting, the only solution is to replace them which can be very costly.
How do you maintain a log cabin?
How do you take care of a log cabin home?
- Drainage counts. Walk around your retreat to inspect the ground around your foundation.
- Oversize your overhangs.
- Cover your gutters.
- Apply sunblock.
- Watch for mold or mildew.
- Keep an eye on the roof.
- Wood Preservation.
How to renovate a log cabin?
- Keep a scrapbook with any documents you find. Take photos and list the elements in the building that are the most valuable to you.
- Before you go out and buy materials, explore the property. Basements, attics, garages, barns, and sheds may be a treasure trove of supplies. ...
- Reuse. ...
How my log cabin went bug free?
Prevention
- Keep the cabin clean. Both rodents and bugs tend to be creatures of opportunity. ...
- Plug up entry points. Believe it or not, mice and rats can squeeze into some really tiny places. ...
- For insects and spiders use bug barriers. There are a lot of bug barrier products out there. ...
- Go ultrasonic! ...
How do you repair a rotten log on a log cabin?
How to Repair Log RotMake a vertical cut on either side of the soft spot to the depth of the soft wood.Then use a coal or vibrating chisel and hog out the rotted wood until you reach solid sound wood.Level out the area to a flat surface.Coat the area with Shellguard RTU (borate) to prevent further expansion of rot.More items...
How do you repair a log cabin wall?
Dry rot in log cabin walls is generally treated by three methods....Treatment of Dry Rot of Log Cabin Walls If only a few logs are affected, they may be replaced by cutting out the logs and inserting new ones. ... Another repair procedure is to treat the decayed logs with an epoxy or petrifying compound.More items...
Can you replace logs on a log cabin?
Replacing whole log is one of the most common problems requiring immediate attention on log homes and cabins, and it can be upsetting for a homeowner to hear that they need to have whole logs replaced. However, leaving rotted logs in place only makes things worse. They can't get better on their own.
How do you fix a hole in a log cabin?
0:482:56How to Repair Your Log Home, Interior Chininking DetailingYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo I'm just gonna go over how you repair it it's very simple I use my Albion gun I use a half inchMoreSo I'm just gonna go over how you repair it it's very simple I use my Albion gun I use a half inch nozzle on it. And I just quickly go over the surface make sure that material gets in. There.
What is the filler between logs log cabin?
Chinking is a synthetic sealant that is used to seal the joints of log homes. Chinking is textured like mortar and very flexible. Chinking can be used in place of caulk and is mostly used in the joints between logs. Chinking keeps moisture out by sealing the joints and protects log homes from moisture related damage.
How do you restore a log home?
Log home restoration involves processes of caulking, log home chinking, applying borate preservatives, and log home staining. The first step of surface preparation takes a lot of work but is most critical in ensuring the stains and sealants work long-term.
Do log homes require a lot of maintenance?
All homes require some exterior care and maintenance, but log homes require a bit more than most. Once a year, the home's exterior should be washed to remove pollen, insect debris, and dirt. At that time, the home should be checked for mildew and mold, which should be removed if present.
Is a rotting log a living thing?
A rotting log is a prime example of how a once-living organism replenishes the soil with nutrients and is recycled back into nature. In nature, death does not mean uselessness.
Can you disassemble a log cabin?
All log cabin can be taken down once installed, we do this every year when we have to replace obsolete show buildings. Taking down a cabin is literally the reverse of putting them up. It is though very unlikely that you will be able to save the roofing material and reuse it.
How do you fill hollow logs?
If you've found yourself with this predicament, here's how to tackle it.1: First slice off the butt end of the log and save it for later, if possible. Then remove all loose, rotted wood. ... 2: Next, fill the cavity. ... 3: Smooth the surface. ... 4: Lightly sand, and stain it to match the color of your logs.
How do you fill large voids in wood?
If the hole is small, you can use a putty knife or a ball of epoxy to fill it. For larger holes, you can try mixing sawdust or wood shavings to create a paste. This paste can then be applied to the hole and smoothed out with a putty knife.
How do you stop logs from rotting?
The best way to prevent rot is to keep water out of your wood. This can be done by using a top notch exterior finish on your logs and log siding and regularly maintaining that finish per the manufacturer's directions. The key is maintaining that finish on a regular basis to keep water out.
Do log cabins have load bearing walls?
In a log home, the logs are typically stacked horizontally and are the primary building material that comprises the load-bearing walls.
How do you stop logs from rotting?
The best way to prevent rot is to keep water out of your wood. This can be done by using a top notch exterior finish on your logs and log siding and regularly maintaining that finish per the manufacturer's directions. The key is maintaining that finish on a regular basis to keep water out.
How do you side a log cabin?
0:4617:32Off Grid Cabin Build | How to Install LOG SIDING | Episode 16 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWhat we've done log siding is six and three-quarter inches wide. We came from the bottom of ourMoreWhat we've done log siding is six and three-quarter inches wide. We came from the bottom of our plywood here we've measured up six and three-quarter inches and we put a mark. And what from this mark.
How do you remove logs from a log cabin?
To remove an existing finish there are basically three options, pressure washing along with a chemical finish remover, media blasting and sanding the log cabin.
Why do logs rot?
Reasons why logs on your home may rot. There are many common reasons why logs start to decay here are some of the most common reasons: The roof if not constructed properly and has a minimal overhang, which can result in rain drenching the logs. Plants and trees outside your home that may be too close, as they can divert rainwater against ...
Why do logs decay?
There are many common reasons why logs start to decay here are some of the most common reasons: 1 The roof if not constructed properly and has a minimal overhang, which can result in rain drenching the logs. 2 Plants and trees outside your home that may be too close, as they can divert rainwater against the logs and this will leave the logs damp as there will be minimal sunlight allowing the logs to dry properly. This can include vegetable gardens or flower boxes holding moisture next to the walls of your home. 3 A leaky gutter or downspout that allows water to run down the logs. 4 A large crack on the up-facing part of the log that collects and holds rainwater and does not have proper drainage. 5 Paint used on the logs instead of a quality log home finish/stain. 6 Exterior faucets that are drilled through logs. 7 The porch is not attached to the bottom log instead of spaced properly to allow for water drainage. 8 Interior leaks and poor plumbing jobs.
What is a leaky gutter?
A leaky gutter or downspout that allows water to run down the logs. A large crack on the up-facing part of the log that collects and holds rainwater and does not have proper drainage. Paint used on the logs instead of a quality log home finish/stain. Exterior faucets that are drilled through logs. The porch is not attached to ...
Why is my log home splashing water?
First things first, you need to fix the cause of the issue, which could be a number of things such as leaky gutters and downpipes, improperly installed base flashing, splashing water due to sidewalks or gardens being located to close to your logs. Once you have fixed the cause its time for log home surgery if you will!
How do you know if a log is soft?
You’ll know as soon as you come in contact with the log and you feel a soft spot; a log should be hard and sturdy when hit. If you do happen to find some soft spots, those can easily be treated and stopped from spreading, but from time to time you may find a log that has more substantial damage.
Where are logs most susceptible to decay?
Generally, the logs with the greatest potential for rot and decay are the closest to the ground (or under the deck support posts), so the lower or second layer of your log wall where they can’t dry out well enough and are susceptible to soaking up more water in the ground.
Why is my porch not attached to the bottom log?
The porch is not attached to the bottom log instead of spaced properly to allow for water drainage. Interior leaks and poor plumbing jobs. More often than not, if the previous owners had properly maintained their log home, none of these problems would have occurred (or at least, very minimal). Here’s what you need to know when it comes ...
What to use to cut through old logs?
You might also need to use metal-cutting blades to cut through any spikes or bolts that held the old log in place. If the damage is wide or high enough, the wall might have to be jacked up while the work is being done, generally a task for professionals.
Why are my logs rotting?
The underlying problem leading to the rot is usually exposure to too much moisture, and the logs are never allowed to fully dry. If you have no gutters above the damage, consider installing them. Fix leaky gutters.
How long does it take for glue to dry?
Use a thin film of glue and wipe away the excess. Pressure needs to be applied until the glue is dry, about 24 hours later. (Pressure ensures that the glue enters the cellular structure of the wood, otherwise the adhesion will be weak).
What happens if a car crashes into a log?
If a car was to crash into the side of your home, some logs might be so damaged that they may need to be replaced. Making such a repair is not outside the scope of a reasonably handy owner, but it’s a big job. First, get the replacement logs from the company that milled the original logs. If you can’t get them there, ...
Can you repair a log home yourself?
You can do many log home repairs yourself, but it's best to hire professionals for the big jobs. All homes suffer damage of one kind or another from time to time. As a log home owner, you should be aware of the types of repairs or fix-its required on your home, what you can do yourself, and what should be left to a professional.
What to do if wood logs are hollow?
Tap the wood logs with your finger and pay special attention to the noise it produces. If it sounds hollow, there is most likely deterioration inside and wood rot repair is probably needed.
Where to look for rot in log home?
When evaluating the condition of your log home’s exterior, it’s best to start looking at the corners of the house, the bottom row of logs, and around the window trim. These are the most vulnerable areas of the home and the places where wood rot repair is often needed first.
What happens if you scratch a log?
What we mean by this: If you scratch off flakes of your wooden logs with your nails, there is most likely rot on the surface, and you would need to confirm it hasn’t penetrated deeper. Feel It — Log home rot can be as easy to recognize as simply touching and feeling the sturdiness of the logs.
Is a log home a house?
Your log home is more than just a house, it’s your pride and joy. However, taking care of a log home is slightly different than a traditional house. One of the biggest questions we hear about is the danger of wood rot. So how can you tell when your cabin is experiencing wood rot and what can you actually do about it?
Do log homes suffer damage?
All homes suffer damage at one time or another, no matter what type of materials they’re built of. As a log home owner, you should be aware of the types of repairs you’re able to tackle yourself and when you should call in reinforcements.
Can you do a log home inspection yourself?
While everyone can perform a log home inspection to some degree, no one can do it quite like a professional team of log cabin experts. Here are a few times when and when not to do log home repairs yourself. Log home repairs to do yourself: Sealing the exterior of the log home with backer rod and caulk.
How to tell if you have termites in your cabin?
Lastly, you want to look for any signs of an infestation or presence of termites. Termites are every cabin owner’s worst nightmare. In a termite’s eyes, your home is a gingerbread house. You should be looking for small holes in your logs. Other signs of termites are mud tubes/tunnels and droppings.
What is the final step in staining a log cabin?
Staining a wooden building. The final step is the restoration of your log cabin is the staining process . Staining your log cabin will ensure it’s longevity by protecting it from UV rays and the harmful elements such as wind, snow, rain, dust and more. Treating your log cabin with stain is a easy and simple process.
What happens if you don't maintain a log cabin?
If not properly maintained, log cabins will begin to decay and rot. Not only will it cause them to look less appealing, but it also makes them very inefficient as holes and gaps will lead to infestation and insulation problems. In bad cases, in-proper maintenance could even make your cabin a safety hazard.
How to inspect a cabin?
Before you begin anything, you need to carry out a thorough inspection of your building. Walk around your cabin and take a close, you want to inspect everything. This involves getting down low and inspecting your foundations, as well as getting up high on your roof. Take note of anything suspicious.
What happens if you put water on logs?
If logs have water constantly dripping onto them, the finish will wear-out, and the moisture will soak into the logs. This will eventually lead to the growth and mold and rot. If rot occurs, then you can refer to the instructions above on how to deal with rotten wooden logs.
How to replace rotten logs?
To do so you should first acquire a suitable replacement which matches the rest of your cabin. Then you use a saber saw to cut through the screws which hold the logs together. Afterwards, you can use a chainsaw and wrecking bar to cut and remove the rotting log from the rest of your cabin.
What is corn cob blasting?
Corn cob blasting is a finish removal system which involves using a high volume of compressed air to strip a layer off the wooden logs. It is like using a pressure washer, but it uses compressed air rather than water. This is great as it means that there is no drying process.
What can I use to fix rot in logs?
These fixes include borate rods, liquid treatments and epoxy fillers.
What happens to wood after epoxy patch?
A few years after the epoxy patch is done, the wood surrounding the patch loosens, and cracks appear around the epoxy. When this happens, water is allowed to make its way into these cracks. Once the water finds its way in, the rot continues. (See Why Do Logs Rot)
Does epoxy rot wood?
We have seen that this type of repair does not last and at worst, it can cause further rot. This is what is wrong with epoxy: epoxy is not wood. Epoxy expands and contracts at a different rate than wood does. A few years after the epoxy patch is done, the wood surrounding the patch loosens, and cracks appear around the epoxy.
