The above images were submitted by Log Homeowners Association participants.
Based on our 28 years of experience, when it comes to log home exteriors, here are the top issues:
* Make sure your logs are power washed, restained, and if necessary, re-chinked every 6-7 years depending on how weathered they are. Allowing your logs to rot is extremely expensive to fix.
* Make sure you select a contractor who KNOWS log homes.
* Make sure you select a stain that's made for log homes--not "just" a stain that you buy at a local home supply store. We have a good source of stains that's located in PA. If you'd like contact information, just call or email us.
* Make sure the house is chinked (caulked) not only between the horizontal logs, but in all the nooks and crannies near the roofline. Otherwise, you'll lose heat AND you'll invite unexpected guests (bugs, squirrels, bats, mice) to reside with you.
* Log homes are magnets for ants and carpenter bees. When you have your log home restained, make sure that an additive such as "Bee-Gone" is added to the stain. We have used the same pest control contractor in Enfield CT for 24 years. He's reliable and reasonably-priced. If you would like contact information, just call or email us.
* We love our trees, but when they get too close to the house, they create damp spots and "jumping-off" points for bugs and animals. We had a contractor from Stafford Springs, CT cut down six trees. They did an excellent job at a fair price. If you would like contact information, just call or email us.
* Make sure you have chimney covers to stop squirrels and other animals from getting into your basement. A trapped squirrel can cause a LOT of damage. We've had trouble with some local chimney sweeps. Check the Better Business Bureau of Connecticut website for ratings of various chimney sweeps at www.BBB.org.
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Interested in talking to us? Drew Crandall may be reached at his business: KEEP IN TOUCH,* 30 Lafayette Square, Suite 118 * Vernon, CT 06066 860.871.6500 email dcrandall@KeepTouch.com
