Alaska has a lot of log homes. Unfortunately, most of these properties don’t have proper home maintenance. By the time owners notice the need for maintenance, the residential repairs required may be too extreme without professional help. Here are some good practices to avoid unnecessary damage to your log home.
Do an annual wash of your home
Spraying down the outside of your log home goes a long way. It cleans your property of dust, pollen, bird droppings, insects, and anything else that wears down your finish over time. An annual wash is also a good time to do a quick inventory of the state of your walls; note any chipping and the condition of your home’s stain. If noticeably deteriorating, this is a good time for home maintenance by applying a coat of stain.
Know what kind of stain you have
Assessing the state of your log home’s stain is a matter of knowing what kind you’ve got on your property. If your stain is oil-based, look at knots and the color of your walls; they’ll turn blonde when the finish is wearing off. If your stain is water-borne latex-based, check the glossiness; once the finish is dull, it’s time to do some home maintenance by applying a clear coat.
Remove failed chinking and caulking
Chinking or caulking is acting as the sealant between your home’s logs. However, both of these materials wear away over time. If the edges of your chinking or caulking are peeling away, mark the spots and remove the failing areas with a knife or razor. If the damage is severe, contact a home maintenance professional for help. This maintenance should be done before any stain maintenance.