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1. Inspect

Download the "Inspection Checklist" in PDF here. pdf small

Exterior Inspection

When inspecting the general exterior of the building, look for:

  1. Landscape plants within 36 inches of exterior walls. Landscaping tips.
  2. Gutters & down spouts everywhere in good working order.
  3. Check for decaying wood within 12 inches of (or especially in contact with) ground.
  4. Wood piles at least 18 inches away from house.
  5. General patterns of fading of the finish.
  6. Look more carefully at areas that are most exposed to weather. South- and West-facing walls usually receive more sun exposure. Walls facing prevailing winds are exposed to more rain.
  7. Pay special attention to all logs and ends extending to or beyond roof overhangs.
  8. Make sure that no sprinkler directs water at the wall. Including water patterns on windy days!

Check for weathering patterns that can include:

  • Fading of the finish.
  • Water staining on exposed log ends.
  • Water staining on exposed walls.

When inspecting the exterior of the building up close, look for:

  1. Dirt, dust, pollens, etc. on upward facing portion of logs. Clean this off with Log Wash solution.
  2. Inspect for any cracking, peeling or blistering of finish.
  3. Check water repellent quality of finish. Spray or splash water on walls, then look for it to "sheet". Read more here.
  4. Inspect for presence of molds or mildews.
    • On top of finish (can it be washed off?)
    • Underneath finish (cannot be washed off)
  5. Upward facing checks (1/4 inch or wider), if any, should be sealed. Use Check Mate 2 and backer rod. Read how here.
  6. Carefully inspect logs for signs of moisture.
    • Discolored wood
    • Softened wood
  7. Inspect integrity of all sealant joinery (Perma-Chink, Energy Seal, Check Mate 2) at log-log interfaces, windows, doors, checks, roof lines or any potential air or water intrusion points.

Protecting Wood

There are two basic steps in protecting wood: surface preparation and product application. You must first start with clean wood. Think of surface preparation on wood the same way you look at site preparation for construction of a log home on your lot. If you stain over dirty, moldy, rotten wood with a transparent finish, you will always see dirty, moldy, rotten wood underneath the finish.

The proper application of preservatives, stains and finishes is equally important as the prepwork to the wood. Always follow label instructions before you start the job. Call us to clarify any questions you have before you start.

Next Steps

1. Inspect  |  2. Clean and restore  |  3. Preserve  |  4. Stain and Finish  |  5. Chink and Seal

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