| About Log Buildings
Log homes develop problems in unique ways that are specific to log structures and do not occur in other types of construction.
Log buildings use large dimension logs and timbers as structural materials which must be handled properly at each stage of construction from when they are standing in the forest until they are part of a finished log home. Raw logs can be damaged in the felling and hauling process. Once cut the logs must be peeled properly and protected from insect and water damage.
Log buildings are built from three types of logs: newly cut, green logs; aged logs; and kiln dried logs. Newly cut logs should only be used in a log building if proper procedures and techniques are followed. If a building is to be built of aged logs the whole set of logs must have consistent moisture content and have been protected from weathering during the aging period. Kiln dried logs by definition are logs that have been dried to a point where they do not shrink anymore. Each of the three types of logs require a somewhat different construction procedure to accommodate shrinkage.
Log home builders must have specialized skills that allow them to fit the unique shape of each log to those around it. Modern shrink fit joints require great skill and attention to detail. Machined logs in manufactured homes must be carefully formed and properly installed in a building.
Log homes have three enemies in the natural world: water, sunlight and insects. The builder must plan carefully and construct the home in specific ways to avoid damage from any of these forces. The homeowner must continually be vigilant in protecting the home from damage as well.
Water is a major hazard for any log structure. All exterior surfaces must be protected from rain and flowing or splashing water. Failure to control water is a guarantee of future problems including rotted logs and failure of finishes and chinking. No finish, even one of the highest quality, can be expected to stand up to repeated flowing or splashing water.
Sunlight has a surprising effect on logs. The ultra violet rays deteriorate all finishes and the surface of unprotected logs. The gray or "natural" look of unfinished logs is usually the result of a combination of dirt, mold and bleached wood.
Depending on the location, log homes are on the menu of any or all of the following insects: carpenter ants, powder post beetles, termites, pine borers and others. Builders and homeowners must take precautions in very thorough and consistent ways, using proven techniques and properly applied chemicals to avoid infestations of these pests.
Finishes
All log homes need a regular application of a high quality log home finish to protect the log surface. The finishing material must be formulated and tested specifically for log homes. Most hardware store finishes are not appropriate for log homes.
A Final Thought
A well preserved log home can last for a century or more. In order to do that, careful collaboration between the designer, the builder and the owner is required. Each player has a specific role to play and all must coordinate with one another if the home is to stand the test of time.
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