If you’re interested in living in a log cabin-style home, chances are you’ve already done some research and have seen that logs require special maintenance. This is true for traditional log cabins and log siding, but don’t let it discourage you from making the upgrade! Every home requires maintenance. The good news is that log siding maintenance is minimal, simple to perform, and keeps your log cabin-style home looking beautiful for a lifetime.
Why do Log Homes Need Special Maintenance?
Without proper upkeep, all wood degrades, grows visible gaps between joints or boards, or can develop any number of cosmetic issues. Wet, damp conditions expedite wood rot, while microorganisms hiding in everyday dust and dirt eat away at the logs’ protective finish. Sun exposure is another concern as the heat absorbs moisture and UV rays weaken wood integrity over time.

How Do I Maintain My Log Home?
WoodHaven recommends inspecting your log siding conditions at least twice a year. Spring and Fall would be good times to schedule checks. Specifically to look for signs of logs warping, splitting*, dry or faded spots, moisture damage, mold or fungal growth. Any of these issues will need to be addressed. Due to sun exposure, the southern and western faces of the home typically experience the most issues.
*A small amount of splitting in the logs is to be expected. This is also referred to as the log “checking” as wood dries and settles into place. Large gaps should be filled with a caulk or another sealer to keep moisture and dirt from accumulating inside.
The first step to combatting wood concerns is to clean off your log siding. Hosing it down on a sunny day will be sufficient, and let the wood completely dry off. Keeping your log walls clear of shrubbery or plant life also helps wood dry faster and reduces risk of dirt, insects and other contaminants. A sprinkler system located where it will be constantly spraying your logs can also cause issues. After some time, your log siding will need to be re-stained.
When Do I Need to Re-Stain My Log Siding?
The timeline of when you need to re-stain your log siding completely depends on several factors, including how well you maintain it. When you purchase log siding from WoodHaven, we can apply the first coat of stain on all 4 sides of the wood. Many of our customers choose this option, install their siding, and then handle the second layer of stain and clear-coat on their own. The quality of their application will greatly affect how long it lasts.
In our experience, many of our customers are re-staining their siding around three years after the initial application. In warmer states with lots of direct sunlight, restaining could be as often as every year. Other homes are fortunate to see their stains last for up to five years.
Can I Reduce The Need for Maintenance in My Log Home Planning?
Absolutely! You already know some factors can hurt your log cabin-style home: sunlight, moisture, and the surrounding area. With these in mind, you could plan your space in a way that reduces exposure to these risks! Use your yard’s trees to reduce sunlight if you can, keep sprinkler systems and shrubbery away from your walls, and watch your stain quality. When you plan your log siding installation with WoodHaven, we’ll remind you of some of these risks, and guide you into practices that give you the best quality installation for your home–with lasting quality!
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