Protect the Rustic Beauty of your Log Home

More than a million 19th century log homes built in the United States are still standing today. Many of these older log homes are still being used as primary residences. So long as you take the appropriate measures to protect your log home from weather and moisture, you'll ensure its longevity- its beauty and charm.

Log homes are generally designed to keep the rain and wind from entering, as the log themselves are shaped and fitted to minimize air and water filtration. They feature different horizontal interfaces, where the bottom of one log is curved to fit the curve of the top of the log below it. This is the intricate tongue-and-groove profile in most log homes. Today's manufacturers may also prescribe the use of flexible sealing materials, such as foam compression gaskets, adhesives and splines. These serve to reinforce the seal between the logs. Caulk is also a mainstay these days, and preferably one that will adhere to both log surfaces as the logs move while settling. All these building components resist the infiltration of outdoor elements.

Of course, over years of outdoor exposure, the logs of any log home can weaken and therefore need to be protected to ensure their longevity. The objective isn't to keep logs looking like new. That's impossible, and not to mention undesirable. Aging wood, brings out the distinctive, rustic character of the logs. The aim is to keep the wood dry. Fortunately there are proven ways to treat and protect wood and you can even color your abode with stains made especially for log homes.

Protect Your Log Cabin From UV Rays

The sun's ultraviolet radiation can cause cellular damage on the surface of wood. If these damaged wood cells are not removed, they become a food source for micro fungi. As the fungal growth progresses, the wood becomes darker and eventually begins to rot. To diminish exposure to the sun, deep overhangs and porches can help shade the bulk of your home. Also planting trees on south and west side of home can offer needed coverage.

Extra Protection From Wind

As mentioned earlier, wind is not a concern in terms of penetrating into the interior of your log home. But, it can accelerate the drying and cracking of wood, chinking and caulk. The wind has an abrasive effect on the wood when dirt and sand particles are pounding against the surface throughout the year. If you are building a log home, consider positioning the home on the lot in such a way, so as to avoid windy conditions. Another consideration is to again, plant trees on the south and west side of your log home.

Dealing With Humidity

Damp, dark corners, under decks, and naturally humid parts of the country have an accumulating effect on log walls. Fungus thrives in these damp and dark places, and will feed off the wood's cellulose, causing a break down in the wood. To deal with humidity, creating a buffer zone between the humid air and your home is recommended. Consider stone or brick for part of your wall system. When placing bushes and plants, ensure they are 3-5 feet away from walls. You don't want anything that will trap moisture in.

Be Equipped For Rain and Snow

Precipitation is the worst enemy of the log home. Cleaning, staining and sealing are a must and need to be done on a regular basis, but there are also some preventative measures that can help beat the battle. Properly working gutters and, again, deep overhangs will help decks and sidewalks drain away from the home. Search for other places where moisture can be trapped (windows, gas tanks, window boxes) and then create an airspace for circulation.

Log homes that are designed for protection from the weather, actually require less care than homes that do not take advantage of this protection. Nevertheless, as mentioned, all exterior wood surfaces should be treated with a finish or coating that include water and ultraviolet protection.

Consider these extra measures of protection, and you'll enjoy your cozy log home throughout many moons.