Summer Checklist for Your Log Home

The summer months are a perfect time to catch up on all that maintenance work around the house that we've been putting off since, well, last summer. Log homes, in spite of their general steadfastness, do require a bit of regular maintenance in order to keep them looking their very best. Most of this maintenance focuses on ensuring the long-term health of the wood. So where should we start? How about with a bath.

Pressure Washing

                No doubt your log home is a sight to behold, but all that dirt and mildew is obscuring its beautifully hewn spruce timbers. Unfortunately, log homes are magnets for all sorts of unsavory grime and grit. A pressure washer will make quick work of all manner of exterior filth. We believe that there are few things in life more satisfying than watching last year's dirt disappear under a 2000 PSI jet of water. Don't own a pressure washer? Check with your local hardware or appliance dealer to inquire about rental options.

Mold Control

                Now that you've removed all that loose dirt, you'll want to go back and check for areas with mold and mildew. Scrub these spots with a gentle cleaning solution – start with soap and water – in order to stave of further mold growth. A solution of bleach diluted in water (roughly 4 parts water to 1 part bleach) can also aid in mildew removal. Beware of caustic chemical cleansers as they can affect the PH levels in the wood, resulting in discoloration. If you're still having trouble removing mold and mildew from your home's exterior, you can speak with one of our experts at our toll free number for further assistance.

Insecticide Treatment

                Insects will do their very best to prey on the wood of your log home. Overtime, the cavities created by burrowing insects can lead to dry rot and structural weaknesses in the exterior walls. Fortunately, there are a number of products on the market that can help to control insect activity. Shell Guard is a particularly popular option. This borate based treatment is rated against a number of burrowing insects such as termites and carpenter ants, and also protects against fungal decay. We carry this, and a number of other similar products in our online shop.

Preservative Treatment

                Treating the wood of your log home with a preservative is essential to its longevity. These treatments prevent water and insect intrusion, and help to promote healthy, even settling in the logs. By periodically treating the wood with preservatives, you can add decades to the life of your home. Again, be sure to check out our online shop. We carry a number of treatment options to help keep your log home healthy and moisture free.

Take these four easy steps and rest easy knowing your home is well cared for and fortified for the future. For more tips on how to keep your log home in showroom shape, don't hesitate to contact us at our toll free number anytime Monday through Friday from 8:00am till 4:30pm.