Chinking, log stain and cabin caulking are staples for the preservation of your log home. Eventually, you will find yourself applying at least one of these materials if you own a home constructed of logs. All of these products are available in a number of colors, consistencies and performance ratings. It is always best to consult with your builder or application contractor before making a purchase. Below you will find some helpful information to guide you through the maze of log home products.
- Purchase a stain material from a reliable manufacturer and a reliable source.
- Not all oil based stains are the same.
- Not all water based stains are the same.
- Chinking is designed to stand out from your wood.
- Caulking is designed to blend in with your logs.
- The staining process is typically done first followed by chinking or caulking.
- Log home products are typically higher performing products as compared to stick built products.
- All log home stains will need a maintenance coat in 4-5 years.
- More prep work is critical for the success of water based log home stains as compared to oil based stain products.
- Oil based stains have a stronger odor than water based stains.
- Most chinking materials are water based.
- Installing backer rod behind chinking or caulking will help these materials to expand and contract.
- Backer rod is available in a number of different profiles such as full round, D shaped or trapezoidal shaped.
- Chinking material can be used in joint sizes ranging from 1/4” up to 6”.
- Borate treatments need to be applied before the application of log stain materials.
- Impel rods work very well in areas of high moisture content.
- Log checks facing upwards should be filled if they are greater than a 1/4”.
- Surface preparation is the key to success for applying any stain.
- It is OK to use a different color stain on the inside of your log home.
- Applying an interior clear finish to the inside of your log home will make cleaning much easier.
- Chinking can be done by professionals and homeowners.
- Corn cob blasting is effective in the removal of stains, dirt, grease or grime.
In conclusion, there a number of choices on how to preserve your dream home but as a consumer you need to ensure that you are asking the right questions.
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