A Cost Effective Way to Save Your Wallet
Caulking is an inexpensive way to make your log home last. Caulk is used between the logs, and to fill in checks (splits) as needed.
Recaulking an entire log cabin would be expensive, but it is rarely needed. Most homes require an assessment to determine if and where separation has occurred (this is where caulking has peeled between logs due to the elements, or age has caused logs to shrink and a gap to form), and where there are trouble areas caused by increased weather exposure.
Checks in the log are upward facing cracks. These are areas where water gets in but cannot run out. These are areas that need to be caulked to prevent rot.
When an area of caulk is gone (often between logs around windows and doors), it leaves an opening for water to sit, critters to get in, and organic material can build up. Remember that this newly exposed area has not been protected by stain and so is susceptible to rot. These areas are then recaulked as needed.
The cost of having your log home checked over and recaulked is a fraction of what it will cost to fix the rot damage, or replace the log, later on. And caulking around windows and doors helps keep the heat in during the winter, and keep it out during the summer. This simple service offers great energy saving value to your home and keeps it beautiful.
