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Safeguard Your Log Home:
Top Annual Maintenance Tasks to Prioritize
Owning a log home comes with a unique set of responsibilities, particularly when it comes to maintenance. To keep your log home in top condition, regular annual upkeep is essential. From inspecting the exterior for signs of wear to ensuring your home is well-sealed against the elements, these tasks not only preserve the beauty of your log home but also protect your investment. In this article, we’ll explore the key annual maintenance tips every log homeowner should follow to ensure their home remains a rustic haven for years to come.
Vigilant Plumbing Oversight
Regular plumbing checks are critical in preventing minor issues from escalating into costly disasters. Inspect your pipes periodically for any signs of leaks or corrosion, and make sure water pressure is at an optimal level. Addressing these problems early can save you a significant amount in future repairs. This proactive approach not only ensures the longevity of your plumbing systems but also maintains the overall health of your log home.
Effective Caulking Is a Must
To keep the harsh elements at bay, inspect and reseal your log home’s windows, doors, and other exterior openings. Effective caulking prevents drafts and water intrusion, which are common in log homes, thereby conserving energy and reducing your heating bills. This task not only enhances comfort but also protects against structural damage caused by moisture. Annual reviews and touch-ups can ensure your home remains sealed against the elements year-round.
Invest in a Home Warranty
Investing in a home warranty can shield you from the financial burden of unforeseen appliance and system breakdowns. Consider a service agreement that encompasses your log home’s climate control system to ensure it remains functional throughout the seasons. Select a policy that allows for straightforward claims processing without the need for documented maintenance histories. This type of coverage proves invaluable, particularly in log homes where system malfunctions can significantly impact your living conditions.
Persistent Pest Patrol
Pest control is essential, as insects and rodents can compromise the structural integrity of your log home. Regularly inspect for signs of infestation, including termites and other wood-loving pests. Early detection and professional extermination can prevent extensive damage, preserving your home’s foundation and aesthetic value. Consider scheduling bi-annual inspections with a pest control professional to ensure your home stays pest-free.
Gutter Maintenance is Key
Maintain clean gutters and downspouts to prevent water buildup that can damage your roof and foundation. Cleaning these areas twice a year, particularly after heavy seasons of fall and spring, prevents water damage and protects the landscaping and exterior of your log home from erosion and other water-related issues. Employing professional cleaning services can enhance this task’s effectiveness, especially in dense, wooded areas.
Roof Resilience
Regular roof inspections help identify and rectify problems with shingles that are missing, damaged, or loose. Repairing these issues promptly prevents leaks and extensive water damage, which can be especially problematic in log homes. This maintenance task is crucial for protecting both the interior and exterior of your home from weather-related damage. Engage a roofing specialist annually to assess and address any potential vulnerabilities in your roof’s structure.
Digital Document Management
To help manage your annual tasks, transitioning your home maintenance records to a digital format enhances their accessibility and preservation. Use a PDF converter to maintain the integrity of your documents, ensuring they look the same across various platforms and devices. This method mitigates risks related to compatibility and accessibility issues. By employing online tools that support drag-and-drop functionality for converting files, you streamline the organization and security of your log home’s historical data.
Maintaining a log home is an ongoing commitment that pays dividends in comfort, safety, and value retention. Through diligent upkeep and strategic improvements, you not only preserve the character of your home but also enhance its functionality. Emphasize preventive measures and professional assessments to avoid costly repairs, and remember that a well-maintained log home is a lasting treasure in the landscape of your life.
Perma-Chink Systems® newest finish option, Log & Timber Defense™, has been quite the success for customers looking for a hybrid finish for their log homes. Unlike our traditional Lifeline film-forming wood finishes, Log & Timber Defense penetrates your wood. As it absorbs into the wood surface, it forms a strong lattice network within the wood, reinforcing and strengthening the entire system from the inside out. Due to its elastomeric nature and penetration, it greatly reduces the chances of peeling and flaking by leaving the system breathable to water vapor. Many penetrating oil-based finishes can also form a lattice-like network, but unfortunately these finishes contain harmful flammable solvents that make working with them both dangerous for you and our environment. In contrast, our Log & Timber Defense is water-based, making it both easier and safer to work with.
Log and Timber Defense is designed to be applied to bare wood in one or two coats. However, if applied to wood that already has an existing coating, this can interfere with adhesion and could lead to premature failure of the finish. For best results we recommend application of Log & Timber Defense to bare wood that has been cleaned with Wood Renew™.
For all our Lifeline™ wood finishes, we recommend application of a topcoat. However, not so with Log & Timber Defense. The reason for advising against this is because when a maintenance coat is needed in the future, there will be difficulty with penetration into the wood since the topcoat forms a barrier to penetration, leaving a film on surface. Additionally, this could lead to undesirable surface defects, as well as an uneven appearance.
Texture is another property that distinguishes Log and Timber Defense from our Lifeline Stains. Due to its penetrating nature, Log and Timber Defense leaves the surface with a more natural, rustic beauty. In general, it will appear flatter than our Lifeline finishes. However, if slightly more gloss is desired, a second coat of Log & Timber Defense may be applied. The second coat will also increase color intensity and provide an increased level of overall protection for the system.
Finally, Log and Timber Defense is formulated with ingredients that inhibit the growth of mold and mildew. Log and Timber Defense is both a stain and sealant in one package. It helps to keep liquid water out, which reduces biological growth that can attack and destroy your wood. In contrast, traditional natural oils – such as Linseed Oil – can easily promote growth of mold and mildew. Log & Timber Defense is waterborne, low in odor, has easy soap and water cleanup, and is non-flammable. Log & Timber Defense offers unique properties designed to give your home the very best protection possible. For more information about Log & Timber Defense or our other finishes, please visit Log and Timber Defense stain
The Beginning of A Dream
Judy MacKnight retired as a school teacher and was pursuing an active interest in hiking and backpacking when she discovered the timeless link to our past represented by the Appalachian style log structures located in Cade’s Cove of the Tennessee Smoky Mountains National Park. Later her adventures would take her to the western United States where she observed that log homes and the people who lived in them was representative of the enduring American values of independence and self-sufficiency. Those qualities struck a resolute tone and she began to dream of living in a log home.
Stuart Baurichter left a pre-med career path to spend 30 years working as a self-employed home remodeler and met Judy over a shared interest in motorcycles. It soon became evident that her passion for log homes coupled with Stu’s experience in the various trades were a perfect fit and they began planning to build on 11.5 quiet country acres, east of Cincinnati, Ohio.
Planning the Dream
Judy and Stu extensively researched log home manufacturers and settled on a Hearthstone log home. Hearthstone Homes company describes: “Judy worked with our local Distributor to modify a standard Greenbriar floor plan that has a connector and garage, resulting in 1920 square feet of heated space plus an unfinished basement. A wrap-around porch was added with Eastern Red Cedar tree trunks used for porch posts. To get that 200-year-old “look”, the logs selected were our Timberlake profile, 6″ thick x 14″ to 22″ wide and tapered, with dovetail corners and chinking. Wavy-edged White Pine siding was used on the dormers and gable ends to complement the log style. The home delivered in the spring of 2009 and Hearthstone’s package included our log installation and dry-in service.”
Stu adds, “Hearthstone was very responsive and supportive during the building process. The shell was erected by a 4 man crew in 10 days. What impressed me most was their service after the sale.” Judy and Stu spent a total of 18 months working 7 days a week, most days 7am to 8pm, to complete their homestead. During this time they took off only two days “…for a wedding and a funeral.”
Becoming Independent and Resourceful
Reminiscent of those values of independence and self-sufficiency, Judy and Stu remained determined to reuse, repurpose and adapt materials in the building of their log home and an Amish milled post-and-beam barn, fashioned primarily of recycled and repurposed materials. Windows were purchased from a local used building material store for $5 per pane, and nearly all the doors (23 in total) were reclaimed from one old log home they dismantled. Wood flooring was pulled up, the nails ground off, and reinstalled in their new home. Interior partition walls were finished with reclaimed weathered cedar fencing, installed over black painted plywood backing so that the walls remain finished looking regardless of the seasonal movement of individual boards.
Stu reports, “Auction websites were a real help. A bathtub, still in the box, had been returned due to a sizing issue. In a log home you simply design around what you find.” Judy’s artistic side is evident throughout the home: kitchen appliances remain fully functional while carefully hidden from sight and bathroom sinks are fashioned from repurposed jelly cooking pots. Even the light switch and outlet covers reflect the owners’ resourcefulness: industrial steel plates were ordered directly from the manufacturer, treated to a solution of muriatic acid, and the resultant patina fits wonderfully into the home’s interior.
Choosing the Right Materials & Right People
Judy chinked the entire home herself, both inside and out, and speaks favorably of her interaction with Perma-Chink. “We attended the Perma-Chink workshop and learned so much that we returned for a second session. This training coupled with the advice and encouragement of Bill and Kevin Huff, our Perma-Chink Distributors at Log Home Center and Supply, gave us the ability to tackle the chinking project with confidence. There was always someone to help anytime we had any questions.” Judy and Stu also selected Perma-Chink stains and finishes to be used throughout the interior and exterior of the home.
Wayne Bell of Log Home Care, an Ohio based log home refinishing, repair and restoration company reports that the finish is performing exactly as expected. “With minimal upkeep, which consists of regular cleaning with Perma-Chink Log Wash, this finish is easily maintained. As a preventative measure we’ve touched up the stain and topcoat in a few surfaces subjected to heavy weathering or UV radiation but overall this finish is as attractive and functional as the day it was initially applied.”
What’s next for Judy and Stu? They are currently finishing their 1200 sq. ft. basement and consistent with their philosophy, much of the building materials are repurposed. The home showcases Judy’s collection of handcrafted baskets and serves as a gathering point for frequent bluegrass music gatherings.
Judy and Stu both agree that the process of building their own home has been fun, yet they warn that serving as General Contractor (as Stu did at a savings of $40,000) is not for the faint of heart. Nevertheless, they enthusiastically say they would do it all again.
Resources
Hearthstone Homes
800-247-4442
https://www.hearthstonehomes.com
Bill and Kevin Huff
Log Home Center and Supply
(800) 773-6223
Wayne Bell
Log Home Care
(800) 932-1275
Do you wonder about how to seal those drafts in your home? Or how to stop some bugs from continually getting inside?
It very well could be a break in the interior seal of your home. Perma-Chink Systems’ sealants are not exclusively for exterior work, and you can benefit from properly sealing the interior of your log or timber home. Fully sealing the interior of your home with Perma-Chink will also prevent energy waste from escaping heat in the winter and cool air in the summer.
Gaps exist not only between your home’s logs, but also around framed walls and many other home features. Features like chimneys and fireplaces, stairs, doors, and windows are all trouble spots for areas of intrusion and gaps to develop. For these gaps, we recommend backer rod and Perma-Chink for it’s texture and available color options. It’s easy to apply with simple tools. With a tube of Perma-Chink, a small metal spatula, and a spray bottle, it’s very easy for a homeowner to get professional-looking results sealing your home interior.
Chimneys and fireplaces can be overlooked as a cause for drafts. As homes settle and logs shift with the seasons and time, masonry work can separate from logs, opening up gaps. Utilizing Perma-Chink and backer rod, these gaps can be resealed and look natural with the right color. Interior masory has the distinction of being a focal point in many large homes, so keeping gaps closed helps keep the aesthetic beauty of your home intact, and also eliminates hiding spaces for bugs.
One last area that can be a nusiance area are the unsealed seams at floor level. For hardwood floors, applying Perma-Chink between the floor and bottom log can provide a flexible seal that should withstand the expansion and contraction of the floor.
For more detailed application tips and techniques, check out our Sealant Application Guide. If you have any questions, call us at 1-800-548-3554. To order Perma-Chink or Energy Seal, visit Store.PermaChink.com for all your home sealing needs.
When talking about wood stains one question that is frequently put to our customer service representatives is “Is a topcoat really necessary?” Actually a more accurate question would be, “Is a topcoat worth the extra cost and effort to apply?”
Rather than giving a simple answer we will discuss the benefits of topcoats and let you decide after you read this.
When we examine a wood stain there are certain parameters that govern its formulation:
- It must hold the pigments in suspension and form a thick enough film for proper color generation and ultraviolet.
- It must have UV protection.
- It must be able to withstand all types of weather conditions from arctic freezing temperatures to broiling desert heat.
- It must breathe to allow water vapor to escape from the wood yet prevent liquid water from getting in.
- It must remain elastic so that it can expand and contract along with the log movement.
- It must be able to retain its color for several years.
- And most importantly, it must adhere tightly to both bare wood and/or a previously applied coat of stain or, in some cases, a topcoat.
That’s a lot to ask of a single coating. In order to satisfy all of these tasks certain trade-offs inevitably must be made. Each affects the ultimate performance of the stain.
Topcoats
Clear topcoats, on the other hand, must meet some of the same parameters such as being breathable, maintaining flexibility and withstanding extreme weather conditions. But they don’t have to hold pigments, retain their color or adhere to bare wood.
This enables us to impart a different set of characteristics to topcoats such as film hardness, surface smoothness and a different UV protection system that is not possible in the stain itself.
We used to say that topcoats extend the life of the stain. That is still true, and our LIFELINE Advance topcoats (Gloss or Satin finish) extend stain life longer than we ever thought possible. And they do much, much more.
First of all they significantly improve the look of the finish. In the past we thought that topcoats should essentially disappear from view. However in the process of formulating our LIFELINE Advance topcoat we discovered that we could actually enhance the color, clarity and depth of the underlying stain finish.
The second thing we found with our new LIFELINE Advance was its ability to keep the surface clean.
Since we can design the topcoat to form a slightly harder film than the color coat, it is much more resistant to dirt. This film retains the flexibility and elasticity required of a high-performance log home finish. In addition, the hard smooth surface makes it quite easy to clean off any dust or pollen that may accumulate on the surface of the logs. A simple wash down with Log Wash and a garden hose will remove any grime that may hide the beauty of your home.
Another feature a smooth topcoat provides is greater resistance to mold, mildew and algae. In addition to water, these organisms need something to grip onto. If the spores land on a hard smooth surface that rapidly sheds water, they won’t have an opportunity to germinate and spread. So the surface of the logs stays free of unsightly mold spots and patches of algae.
Of course the best feature of a topcoat is the protection it provides to the underlying stain color coat.
Years ago cars left the manufacturer with a coat of paint. More expensive cars may have had several coats of paint but no matter how many coats were applied after a few years the paint job still turned dull and started to fleck off. Then car coating experts discovered the benefits of clear topcoats.
Today’s car finishes remain shiny and last longer than ever thought possible all due to the application of a clear topcoat over a color base coat.
We used this same concept and technology for designing our new clear log home topcoat. LIFELINE Advance helps prevent the color base stain from degrading by protecting the entire finish system from dirt, wind, water and sunlight. So, is a topcoat worth the cost and effort? You bet it is. In fact, we’re so sure of the benefits of our Advance Topcoat we extend the warranty of Ultra-7 and Ultra-2 exterior stains to five years when a fresh topcoat is applied in year three.
LIFELINE Advance is available in Satin and Gloss finish.
The Visible Difference of a Log Home Topcoat
Here is an example of a fresh application of LIFELINE Advance on a log home, protecting the finish and wood underneath from damaging environmental factors. One of our Preferred Applicators, Log Masters Restoration, performed this exceptional work.
Order Topcoat Today
Order your LIFELINE Advance topcoat today, in either Gloss or Satin finish, and make your log or timber home look like new. Call us at 1-800-548-3554 or order online at Store.PermaChink.com.
Help Us Minimize Our Environmental Impact by Storing Our Products Correctly.
At Perma-Chink Systems (PCS), we are committed to creating a sustainable future through our innovative, environmentally-conscious products. Our goal is to safeguard energy-efficient log and timber homes by creating finishing products that embody a strong commitment to ecological and social responsibility.
Our holistic approach extends beyond just sustainable materials. We integrate healthy living principles into every stage of our product development, ensuring that human well-being is a key consideration.
Our dedicated chemists invest significant time and effort into research to ensure our products excel in durability and shelf life. We begin by selecting raw materials that meet both our protective performance standards and our rigorous environmental criteria. These materials include resins, surfactants, solvents, biocides, pigments, fillers, colorants, and UV inhibitors.
We develop environmentally friendly solutions that minimize the need for frequent reapplications. By extending the shelf life of our products, we ensure they remain effective for longer periods, which helps to reduce waste and lessen the environmental impact associated with disposal.
To ensure you get the most out of your Perma-Chink Systems products and extend their shelf life, please follow these guidelines:
- Keep Containers Sealed: Ensure containers remain sealed and unopened to prevent exposure to oxygen and oxidation.
- Avoid Sunlight: Store products away from windows and direct sunlight to protect them from UV damage.
- Keep Away from Heat Sources: Avoid placing products near heaters or forced air vents to prevent temperature fluctuations.
- Distance from Exterior Walls: If possible, store products away from exterior walls to maintain a stable environment.
- Maintain Optimal Temperature: Keep products in a controlled temperature range of 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C).
For products in opened containers, transfer the remaining product into smaller, tightly-sealed plastic containers to minimize air exposure and maintain freshness. Your careful handling ensures that our products remain effective and sustainable, minimizing waste and conserving resources.
Perma-Chink Systems’ environmental initiatives are making a positive impact globally, reflecting our commitment to a healthier, more sustainable world. Shop here: https://store.permachink.com/
Log Wash is The Easy-to-Use Cleaner for Interior and Exterior Surfaces
The initial reason we developed Log Wash™ was for cleaning finished log home exterior surfaces. We found that all of the products typically recommended for general maintenance cleaning like Spic & Span, Mr. Clean or even mild dishwashing soaps softened finished surfaces during the cleaning process. This resulted in potential finish damage, especially if a pressure washer or a brush was used. It turned out that the one thing these cleaners all had in common was their high pH. When we tried the Log Wash formulation we found that it hardened the surface of our finish system and no damage occurred to the finish – even with vigorous scrubbing. It was only later that we discovered the benefits of using Log Wash on bare wood.
Why is Log Wash Better?
First and foremost is its pH. It is one of only a handful of cleaning products on the market that has a slightly acidic pH similar to that of wood. This means that when applied to wood it does not disrupt the wood’s chemistry, thus avoiding many of the discolorations attributed to high-alkaline solutions like bleach or strong acids like oxalic acid. Another feature of Log Wash is that it’s easy to tell when it has been sufficiently rinsed off. While rinsing Log Wash, it will foam as long as any residue remains on the wood. When the foaming stops, it’s a good indication that the wall has been adequately rinsed.
One of the biggest surprises we encountered with the use of Log Wash on bare wood has been how well it removes some types of discolorations due to tannins or chemical imbalances. There have been several occasions when discolorations we thought would be difficult, if not impossible, to remove ended up being no problem at all with the exterior application of a solution of two cups Log Wash per one gallon of water. Cleaning a finished log or timber exterior requires one cup Log Wash per one gallon of water. Interior cleaning application is recommended at one-half cup to one cup Log Wash per one gallon water.
Works on Exterior & Interior
As mentioned earlier, Log Wash is more than capable for cleaning interior wood surfaces as well. While the interior usually doesn’t get as dirty as the exterior, over time it can collect pollen, dust, grease and more. Utilizing Log Wash on interior wood will make your home look fresh and clean.
Stock up on Log Wash now – you will be amazed with the results! The use of Log Wash for maintenance cleaning has been proven to extend the life of the finish as well as keeping your home looking beautiful.
If your log or timber home is built with wood like Western Red Cedar, Redwood, Walnut or Mahogany, use Cedar Wash™ instead of Log Wash for better surface preparation and finish longevity for these specific wood substrates. Read more about Cedar Wash™ here.
New Bare Wood or Restoration?
Since we started promoting the use of Log Wash for cleaning bare wood the number of compliments we receive from homeowners and applicators about its performance has increased. Have a log home that doesn’t have a finish, either new construction or recently stripped of finish? Read how Log Wash will best prepare your bare log surfaces here.
Cleaning Interior Bare Wood Surfaces
Interior walls and ceilings must be cleaned prior to finishing. If your home is completed, you are somewhat limited in the available cleaning methods since the use of a pressure washer is typically not an option. If you want your interior walls smooth, sanding may be your best and only choice. As opposed to exterior surfaces, you can sand interior wood surfaces using 120 grit sandpaper or Osborn brush.
Although your interior wood surfaces may appear to be clean, they are never clean enough to apply a finish to them without first washing them with an appropriate cleaning solution like Log Wash.
Step 1: Mix one half or one cup of Log Wash Concentrate with one gallon of warm water, if available, in a pail.
Step 2: Apply the Log Wash solution to the wall with a rag or sponge starting at the bottom and work up. Allow the solution to remain on the wall for at least 10 minutes.
Step 3: Using a clean rag or sponge and a pail of clean water, wipe the Log Wash solution off of the surface. Frequently rinse the sponge or rag in the pail of water and occasionally exchange the water in the pail with clean water.
Step 4: Allow the surface to completely dry before applying the first coat of finish.
Lifeline™ Ultra-7 is the most durable exterior wood stain that Perma-Chink Systems has ever developed. After multiple exposure tests in harsh-weather areas across the country (think snow country, the sunny southeast and extreme mountain locations), Lifeline Ultra-7 stands out as THE top-of-the-line, long-lasting wood finish. The secret behind its durability is Lifeline Ultra-7’s state-of-the-art resin that creates a tough, yet flexible and breathable finish on your home’s logs. Perhaps more importantly than Ultra-7’s strength is the resin, which ensures that the finish is continuous, providing protection from holes and gaps that might otherwise develop with lower-quality finishes. In addition, Ultra-7 has unsurpassed adhesion to wood.
By choosing a high-performance log home finish like Lifeline Ultra-7, you are ensuring that the finish will look as beautiful years after application as it did the day it was applied thanks to a balanced formula of transparent iron oxides, fungi and algae inhibitors (biocides), and an advanced polymer resin.
I personally have had good experience with Ultra-7 when used with the Advance topcoat. I restored my children’s wooden playset five years ago. I used Wood Renew to take it back to bare wood, then rinsed until pH neutral and applied Ultra-7 Bronze, followed by Advance topcoat – and it still looks fantastic today. I went back about a year ago and re-applied the Advance topcoat. I expect many more years out of this system. It works great.
I will also add this caution: if the topcoat is not used with Ultra-7, you can expect problems quickly. The topcoat helps keep the water away from the binder in Ultra-7. It has a high acid value which makes it more water-loving and as such, will tend to hold on to water for longer periods of time. Water is one of the primary ingredients needed for biological growth to occur, and even with the biocides present, over time micro-organisms will take up residence in the film. This occurs as water moves in and out of the film more readily as the topcoat degrades, taking with it biocides, and making the film even more vulnerable to attack. So to help protect the film, and ultimately the wood, both the topcoat and the biocides in the coating work together to make a winning combination. The clear topcoat helps lock the biocides in place so that they can do their job.
This playset was erected several years before we bought our home. I am going to guess that it weathered for 5-10 years with no coating at all. The original wood finish of one coat of Ultra-7 Bronze and Lifeline Advance gloss was applied in 2013, with a maintenance coat of Advance roughly 5 years later. I am very happy with the performance of this system.
EDDIE McDANIELS – DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS, PERMA-CHINK SYSTEMS, INC.
I’ve had the privilege of being with Perma-Chink Systems for 32 years. My journey began when I was unemployed and a friend working at Perma-Chink informed me of an opening. I applied, was hired, and have been dedicated to the company ever since.
Initially, I spent 1.5 years in the shipping department and then 4 years in production. These roles provided me with valuable, independent insights into both the manufacturing of our products and the accuracy required in fulfilling orders, as well as managing finished goods inventory and warehouse operations.
My career took a new direction when our Sr. VP of Operations, Tony Huddleston, approached me with an opportunity to travel and train in log home maintenance and restoration. I eagerly accepted this challenge, which led me to travel extensively across the U.S., gaining experience in nearly every state and accumulating significant road miles.
Under Tony’s mentorship, I deepened my understanding of our products, their applications, and how we could enhance our offerings. This role evolved beyond training to include hosting mobile seminars, attending log home shows, and conducting on-site evaluations of unique customer situations. Over the years, I have personally inspected and assisted with over 10,000 log homes, further expanding my knowledge of log care, manufacturing processes, and industry trends.
My interactions with customers helped shape new product ideas, which I collaborated on with upper management and our chemist, leading to the development of maintenance-friendly products that work seamlessly together.
For 22 years I also served as the Store Manager for our Sevierville, TN branch. This role allowed me to continue engaging with customers, provide training, visit job sites, and build strong relationships within the local community.
This year, I was honored to accept the position of Director of Operations at our Knoxville, TN manufacturing facility. I am excited to leverage my extensive experience to drive continued improvements in our products and customer experience, aligning with Perma-Chink Systems’ commitment to excellence.
Finishes & Stains
Calling our pigmented finishes “stains” can be a bit confusing, but we understand how finishes can be called a stain. The term “stain” implies that the wood fibers are stained with the colorants contained in the products. However, in the case of film-forming water-based finishes, like our LIFELINE™ family of finishes, the wood fibers are not impregnated with the colorants. Our LIFELINE finishes behave more like latex paints than penetrating oil-based stains. Yet we can refer to our finishes as stains or varnish since that is what the market is used to. Our newest finish, Log & Timber Defense, is a semi-transparent finish that penetrates like oils, but without the negative effects of oil-based stains.
Pigmented Finishes
Speaking of pigmented finishes, that’s just a fancy way of saying we have finishes with color. And do we add color. We offer the most color options for log and timber homes of anyone on the market. Many homeowners choose finishes that highlight the natural beauty of wood, selecting colors like Dark Honey, Dark Natural, or Cedar. Others enjoy a deep, rich color base like Chestnut, Walnut, or Classic Brown.
A few years ago we saw grays as a key color for paint, home textiles, and interiors. And second only to blue as the most popular color for menswear. We expanded our color options to include more gray tints, offering trend-setting gray tints. Depending on your personal choice, our family of grays extend from a lovely aged-wood Smoke color to a New England-style Barn Gray. And with our ability to make custom colors, you can find a gray somewhere in between – or any other color for that matter.
Whatever color direction you choose, know our products provide exceptional coverage, lasting color, and superior protection when used as part of the Perma-Chink System. If you’re undecided on what color you should finish your log or timber home in, don’t worry! We offer free samples of all our finishes so you can be confident in your choice of color.
Topcoats
One of the most frequently asked questions we receive about our LIFELINE Advance™ topcoat is why don’t we include the topcoat in with the stain. The answer to this simple question is that if we did, it would no longer be a topcoat. Topcoats play a specific role in protecting any finish system.
Our Advance topcoat plays essentially the same role as an automotive clearcoat, protecting the color coats from the weather, sunlight, and dirt.
Unlike other brands, Advance is specifically designed as a high performing topcoat with a unique set of characteristics that has yet to be duplicated by anyone else in our industry. One of the reasons Lifeline Advance outperforms all other topcoats is that it is designed for a very specific purpose and should never be applied to bare wood.
Pairing Finishes and Topcoat – The Winning Combination
When you pair a LIFELINE finish with Advance, you get the maximum protection for your log home. This combination provides long-lasting color for your home, with the topcoat giving the home protection from the elements. Your home will look great for years to come.
Free Samples! And Excellent Customer Service
If you’re ready to finish your log or timber home, or have a renovation project that needs a finish, we are here to help. Sample orders and product orders can be fulfilled online at store.permachink.com or you can call any of our nationwide stores at 800-548-3554.
We are excited to share a very unique project, something that could very be a first for this company – a log home interior of a van, sealed with Perma-Chink. Yes, a van as in the automobile variety.
This project is a fantastic example on the flexibility of our products, and the creative imagination of our customers. We’ll turn over the background of the project to the customer, Barbara P., in their own words.
“In 2002 and 2003, we discussed the possibility of buying a log cabin that my Dad lived in with his Grandfather back in the 1920’s and early 1930’s. We found out that the price was out of our reach. Shawn, my husband, then thought about customizing a new van to look like a log cabin. I have been a member of Moon Lite Vans, Inc. for 46 years and vanning for over 47 years and never saw a van with this kind of interior.
In 2004, we ordered our new van and when we received it, he started to work on turning it into a log cabin on wheels. We bought the oak slab wood from a sawmill in Berks County and he debarked all of the wood with a draw knife and other hand tools. He insulated the whole van and proceeded to contact Kline Construction Company in Boyertown, PA to find out where we can purchase the Perma-Chink to be used in the making of the interior of the van. He installed all the oak wood and then applied the Perma-Chink.
We also used the Perma-Chink when we remodeled the recreation room in our home. It now looks like the interior of a log cabin. It also is the reason why we visited the Petersburg, PA location because we needed some more of the Perma-Chink.
We have always talked about visiting the Perma-Chink location in Petersburg, Pa and finally did in May, 2024. We are so glad we did. It was great to meet everyone there and hear the history of the company.”
And now, the pictures!
There you have it! A beautiful project that illustrates the flexibility of our product and the creative ingenuity of van (and home) owners. We thank Barbara and Shawn for sharing their labor of love with us, and for choosing Perma-Chink to create the look they desired.
As always, Perma-Chink and our whole line of products is available at Store.PermaChink.com – order your project materials today!
Sunlight offers life to Earth, yet also be one of the most damaging objects in our world. While we relish the warmth from the sun and we love the summertime fun, the sun’s ultraviolet rays damage any surface that isn’t protected. For humans, we get protection from clothing and sunscreen. But for your log home, what does it get? What can be done to lessen weathering brought on by UV light?
Given enough time, the sun and environment will eventually wear down any exterior finish whether it is latex paint, oil-based stain, or a semi-transparent finish. The goal is to prolong the life of the wood as long as possible through a combination of home design and protective log finishes.
Protect Through Planning
Structurally, log home surfaces can be protected by having covered porches or extending eaves to shade log surfaces, but sometimes that is not possible with the home’s design or the owner’s preference. A home could also be shaded by tall trees, minimizing direct sun exposure.
The best non-structural protection from UV exposure is using Lifeline finishes and Advance topcoat. Working in concert, these two layers offer unrivaled protection, minimizing the damage UV light can do to untreated wood. Lifeline finishes can last decades if properly cared for as part of a whole-home defensive strategy against UV and environmental damage.
How Lifeline Finishes Protects Against Weathering
Lifeline Ultra-7 and Ultra-2 finishes block UV light through the color pigments, which means some finish colors are more effective than others at blocking UV light. Darker colors contain more colorants, thus contain more UV blocking power than lighter colors. Certain light colors which include titanium white contain a high colorant loading, making them very effective against UV light and reflective of the sun’s heat. This reduces stress on the logs brought on by temperature swings. This is why we recommend finishes with pigments, rather than just applying a clear coat to exterior logs. Lifeline Exterior and Accents can offer the same protection with the addition of UV Boost to the finish.
Advance topcoat, in gloss or satin, protects the finish by reflecting UV light and defending the surface from other environmental attacks. Gloss does have an advantage over satin, reflecting more than a satin sheen. However, Advance is most effective when it is clean, free from the abrading effects of wind or accumulation of pollen and dirt. That is why we recommend a yearly cleaning of the logs with Log Wash. Much like the clearcoat on a car, a topcoat does all the heavy lifting when it comes to fighting the environment.
Effect of Weathering on Squared Logs
The construction method of the log home is also something to pay attention to when it comes to weathering. Flat surfaces get attacked by UV light evenly across the surface. Homes built with squared logs will have uniform exposure, so any weathering will appear evenly. Squared logs also do not accumulate as much dirt and debris as round logs, which can keep the finish cleaner.
Effect of Weathering on Round Logs
Round logs, the most traditional construction method of log homes, have high and low sun exposure sections, making any weathering first noticeable on the tops of the log. Snow and ice can accumulate on the top portion of the logs, introducing more moisture into the log and log checks. This will accelerate weathering on the tops of the logs if not maintained properly. Conversely, the lower portion of the log is out of direct sun exposure, maintaining its protection and longevity.
Effect of Weathering on Log Siding
Round log siding probably presents the greatest challenge to forestalling the effects of weathering. Typically used in high-exposure locations such as dormers and gable ends, log siding has some features which make it even more difficult to protect from the effects of the weather. Siding is often manufactured from lower quality wood than logs, frequently using green wood. This makes it more susceptible to twisting, warping and cracking.
Log siding is greatly affected by temperature swings, since it does not have the high thermal mass of full logs. Think of it like heating a pot of water and a cup of water – which one will boil faster? That same concept, applied to logs, introduces more mechanical stress (growing, shrinking, twisting) during the course of the day. This movement can introduce small fissures in the wood, ultimately allowing rainwater to get behind the finish and cause damage to the wood and finish.
What Can A Homeowner Do To Prevent Weathering?
A homeowner can fight weathering through protecting logs from harmful UV light using structural or environmental shading, and choosing a finish designed to protect the wood. We have compiled best practice recommendations for keeping your home looking great for generations. All homes will have different levels of UV exposure, and location matters a great deal in the effort required to combat UV damage.
Here are the following best practices to combat weathering:
In short, all our wood stains and finishes perform phenomenally – providing excellent UV protection, allowing wood to breathe as the home acclimates seasonally, and ensuring maximum color retention.
For over 40 years Perma-Chink Systems has been protecting log homes and protecting them right. Our focus is on preserving log and timber homes for future generations. We want log home owners to focus on making memories in their home, not spending all their time maintaining the home.
Recommendations
- There are two basic ways to combat the effects of weathering. By far the most effective method is to keep wood surfaces in the shade as much as possible by extending roof overhangs or constructing roofed porches around the home.
- Keep all vegetation at least 24 inches away from wood surfaces to allow for adequate ventilation and drying out of these surfaces.
- Clean the wood surfaces to remove all foreign materials from the wood prior to the application of an exterior finish system. The overall performance of even the best finish system is dependent upon proper surface preparation and application technique.
- Select and apply a highly durable exterior semi-transparent stain, like Lifeline™ Ultra-7 or Ultra-2 to protect the wood and enjoy the beauty of the wood grain. Select Lifeline™ Accents to highlight wood timbers and trim if more opacity is desired.
- Apply an exterior clear topcoat, like Lifeline™ Advance Gloss or Satin, to protect the color coat and add additional UV and mold and mildew protection. Consider the Gloss for additional reflection of UV light.
- Fill all upward facing checks, cracks in wood, with a specialized acrylic sealant, like Check Mate 2™
- Clean the finish systems at least once a year with Log Wash™, a liquid concentrate for bare wood and maintenance cleaning, to remove all foreign debris for the surface of the finish system and extend its longevity.
- Perform an annual inspection of the coating system as a proactive maintenance approach.
- Darkening of the wood or finish when water is applied, is an indication of water getting through the coating and wetting the wood
- Checks or micro-fissures in the wood, especially upward-facing
- Cracks in the finish
- Color fading
- Pay close attention to the south- and west-facing surfaces