Stripping isn't always necessary in order to get amazing results. Sometimes, it is simply a matter, of using a high quality log wash, wood renew, and pressure washing. However, there are times where it is necessary, and stripping should be considered. We will discuss with you all the options, such as the pros and cons of chemical stripping, glass bead blasting, and what our professional recommendation is for your project and budget, to ensure outstanding results.
Although Perma Chink preferred applicators, we work with a wide range of quality water base, oil base and hybrid stains from various manufactures. We will sit with you and discuss the color you have in mind, and then recommend the best course of action to get to the desired results. There are many variables to consider when choosing a color, such as the amount of sun and weather elements that your cabin is subjected to, if you are going from a darker shade to a lighter shade (will require stripping), identifying if there is evidence of mold, snow load damage, water retention, and just assessing the overall condition of the logs. Don't fret it though, we have many recommendations and solutions to choose from in order to keep your log cabin looking its best for years to come.
Chinking isn't just for the aesthetic appeal, it plays a critical role of protecting the logs against elements such as air, and water infiltration, of which not only can severely damage the structure, but without properly chinked logs, the elements can enter the home through gaps causing a plethora of issues, including creating a very energy in-efficient home. It is important to remember, if you have cracks in your chink, or your chink is pulling apart, it is something that you need to have addressed much sooner than later, as it is a solid guarantee it will cause you more problems, headaches and money down the road.
There are several options to choose from with the appearance of chink. Some customers prefer the chink to have a contrast (color stands out against the stain) and some prefer the color to blend with the logs. Some choose a smooth look, and others a rustic appearance. Either way, we will give you our professional recommendation for options available, best suited for your project and desired outcome.
It is important to keep in mind as well, that as your log cabin settles, ages, and faces the various outdoor elements, you will begin to notice "checks" (cracks in your logs). Although not all checks need filled, and many customers leave small checks left for aesthetic purposes, the larger checks are just as important to fill as it is maintaining your chink. Failure to fill these larger checks can be just as detrimental as neglecting the gapping logs and can potentially cost you several thousands of dollars and many headaches down the road.
Once a log cabin is chinked, and checks filled (and we stress chinked properly and minimally maintained) it should last anywhere from 20-35 years.
*See how Thermal Imaging can help determine how energy efficient your current chinking is.
Log Cabin maintenance is a critical process in order to protect your log home for years and years. Routine maintenance is incredibly time consuming and can seem like a daunting task. We can help!
Routine maintenance should be completed on an annual basis and there are many variables to consider, when completing that maintenance, as well as factors to consider and potential issues to look for. For example, carpenter bee's and woodpeckers can be incredibly destructive. Plants and landscaping near the home can play a critical part in your logs retaining water, and much more. Additionally, coupled with your annual routine maintenance, (depending on environment) approximately every 3 years, you should be reapplying stain and UV protection. Of course, we know what to look for, and we are happy to provide you with an annual routine maintenance plan that will give you back your time and peace of mind.
Our Thermal Imaging can assist with determining where you may potentially be losing heat/cool air through logs, gaps, checks and windows. We are happy to provide a complimentary test on any of the areas where you feel may be an issue. We are happy to take those results and build a plan together with you, to ensure an energy efficient home best suited to your budget! And like one of our satisfied customers told us, "...just watch those utility bills dwindle down to nothing."
We are honored that our customers entrust us with restoring and preserving (several) Historical Log Cabins (as seen here, this cabin from the 1700's). This rewarding, but meticulous process is extremely tedious, using only the most intricate and precise techniques. We are happy to showcase our work. If you have a historic log cabin that you want preserved or restored, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We guarantee you won't believe your eyes!
Well, now that your log home looks amazing, how about that deck? We took this deck from a forest green, down to bare cedar, and then transformed it into this stunning beauty! Don't let your log home steal your decks thunder! Give us a call, and ask us about stripping, sanding, staining and sealing your deck. Better yet, ask to combine your deck restoration project with your Log home restoration or routine maintenance, for a price break.
You're Welcome!