COMMON LOG HOME PROBLEMS

Log homes are some of the most beautiful and majestic homes. They are unlike any other type of home in both comfort and style. However, over the years, log homes have received a reputation as difficult to maintain. In many cases though, this is not true. Just like any home, with proper care and maintenance, log cabins and wood homes can last for many years. That proper care and maintenance is key though; log homes do have unique problems.

Log homes are beautiful buildings and care truly be a piece of art. Because of this, homeowners will want to take proper care to maintain their wood home, which will not only increase the longevity of the building, but will also save money and time in the long run. Here are some of the most common log home problems and solutions to those issues.

Moisture

When people think of log homes, often, the first issues they think about is rotting wood. Rain, snow, humidity and standing water are all big causes of water damage in wood homes, and as many people know, wood and moisture are not friends. This is especially true in Montana, where piles of melting snow can cause damage for many people throughout the winter and spring months.

Water is all around, but for wood homes, water damage can cause log rot, water stains, fungus and mold. While water can be one of the quickest destroyers of wood homes, it is also one of the easiest to treat.

The solution: One of the most important ways you can protect your log home is by maintaining your log home’s sealing. You should regularly clean, stain and seal the logs, as well as replace caulk when needed. To find the right product for your home, contact the team at Lovitt’s Coating.

Additionally, when caring for the landscaping around your home, avoid planting bushes or plants close to the walls of your home, as these naturally attract and hold water. It is recommended to keep all bushes and shrubbery at least six feet away from walls.

Also, be sure to maintain gutters, overhangs and trenches to divert water away from windows and walls.

Insects And Critters

Another big concern for log homeowners is pests such as beetles, termites, carpenter ants and bees that may eat or live in the wood. Many of these drill small holes inside the logs. Critters such as squirrels, mice and woodpeckers can do similar damage to a log home by attempting to make it their home.

The solution: Often, pests are drawn to rotting wood, so maintaining the wood on your log home will go a long way in preventing pests. Animals such as squirrels and raccoons are drawn to garbage, bird feeders or gardens, so keeping these items away from the home will help draw these pests away from the house.

Additionally, many companies such as Lovitt’s Coating sell products that can help deter pests from eating your home. Regularly applying these products can create a protective layer around the home.

UV Damage

One aspect people may not think of is UV ray damage to the log home. However, just like prolonged exposure to water can damage the house, prolonged exposure to the sun and ultraviolet rays can damage the logs and wood.

The solution: To prevent UV damage on your home, keep the log home shaded whenever possible, especially in places where there is prolonged sun exposure. This can include trees, overhangs or decks. Keeping up with staining and sealant treatments will also help protect the wood from ultraviolet rays.