How-to

Media Blasting Log Homes

Sandblasting can be an effective way of removing old finishes like paint and creosote from log homes. Sandblasting typically utilizes silica sand a...

Preventing Ice Dams on Your Log Home

Log homes have stood the tests of time and weather for centuries. They're exceptionally durable, which is why many people choose to live in log hom...

Finding and Blocking Air Leaks For an Energy Efficient Log Home

From Tech Tip: Finding Air Leaks Winter arrived quickly this year, and if you're like us, you might still be finishing up some of your log home ...

Maintaining Wood Shingles and Shakes

Wood roof shingles and shakes have long been touted as a classic style for many homes. They’re well known for their energy efficiency, resistance t...

Repairing Damaged Logs On Your Log Home

Wood decay is a phenomenon that isn't totally uncommon with log homes. If you're a long-time log home owner, you probably already have a yearly rit...

INTERIOR LOG HOME CHECKS

1. Watch for mold or mildew damage to log walls in high-moisture areas such as bathrooms and laundry rooms. 2. Vertical posts with settling jack...

TROUBLESHOOTING COMMON ISSUES

1. Is mold/mildew growing on your logs? First determine whether it is on top of the stain or underneath by dabbing it with a swab soaked in chlorin...

FINISHING AND SEALING NEW LOG HOMES

1. Remove mill glaze, road grime and other foreign substances from the logs. You can do this by using a log wash solution (Wood ReNew), sanding, po...

PRESERVING AND CLEANING YOUR LOG HOME

What should I put on my log home to protect it? Preserving and cleaning your log home is essential for longevity of your home. It’s imperative t...

OTHER PESTS AND YOUR LOG HOME

1. Woodpeckers can cause damage to log surfaces, chinking, window frames and trip. Make sure that you do not have insects living in areas where woo...

SIGNS OF INSECT INFESTATION

1. If you see signs of termites or other wood-boring insects, call a pest control professional. Signs include frass (a sawdust like substance) and ...

COMBATING WEATHER DAMAGE

Up to now, our attention has been focused on methods for controlling fungi and insects. The other area of concern is weather. The four weather fact...