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Replacing Logs in Log Home

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  • YMCA Camp Warren, Eveleth, MN

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    This 1800's era log building is at YMCA Camp Warren in Eveleth, MN. We did a complete restoration here. Check out the next photos.

    Replacing Whole Logs

  • YMCA Camp Warren, Eveleth, MN

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    Here we tore out many logs.

    Replacing Whole Logs

  • YMCA Camp Warren, Eveleth, MN

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    Log work complete.

    Replacing Whole Logs

  • YMCA Camp Warren, Eveleth, MN

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    Building was cob blasted, treated with borates, logs replaced, stained and chinked with PermaChink.

    Replacing Whole Logs

  • Log cabin in Phillips, Wisconsin

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    On this older log cabin, the lower logs rotted due to the lack of "freeboard". Water splashed up on them and overtime, rot was the result.

    Replacing Whole Logs

  • Log cabin in Phillips, WI

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    Here we replaced the two lowest logs and chinked them with PermaChink brand chinking.

    Replacing Whole Logs

  • Here is an example of a log cabin with no foundation.

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    Note how the cabin sits right on the ground - no "freeboard".

    Replacing Whole Logs

  • What to do to create "freeboard" to protect the lower logs.

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    Here we removed the lowest log in the wall and replaced it with treated lumber that protected the floor and created a foundation, which the cabin had never had before.

    Replacing Whole Logs

  • Wire mesh installed to deter critters.

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    We also installed wire mesh to reduce the rodent population under the cabin. (Notice it attached to the treated lumber.)

    Replacing Whole Logs

  • Maintaining the "character" of a log cabin is important.

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    Many times the goal with older cabins like this one is to keep the appearance much the same with an eye towards making them last.

    Replacing Whole Logs

    
 

If logs in a given wall are rotted all the way through, we have to replace the entire log. First, we support the building and remove the rotted logs. Next, we select cedar or tamarack logs that match the diameter of the existing ones.

After fitting the new logs into the space left by the old logs, galvanized screws are discreetly used to attach the old logs to the new ones. These screws, along with a properly scribed joint, insure that the home remains stable.

We use Western Cedar logs that have been kiln dried as our replacement logs. This is of particular importance when we replace whole logs with kiln-dried logs because it ensures that the new wall will not shrink and cause problems with the floor, roof and foundation. We use cedar primarily because of its resistance to rot.

Many of the homes we work on have defects in there original design such as short overhangs, decks up against the home, or not much “freeboard” or exposed foundation (See Why Do Logs Rot) and this is why cedar logs offer a greater value in the long run for the home. We GUARANTEEour log work!  Click here for more information on the logs we use.

The final step in the installation of replacement logs is the application of stain. Most times we can advise the homeowner on a good stain to use on the home and then this stain is applied to the new logs as well.  We use various methods to insure that the new logs have a stain match that helps to make them blend in with the existing logs.   

If you need your rotted logs repaired contact us or call our toll free number 877-378-4403.

If you don’t know if you have rotted logs, see our common problems page to diagnose your specific problem areas.  

If you have small holes in your logs and dust piles forming on the surface of the logs, see problems with insects.

To learn about the benefits of treating with borates to prevent rot, click here.
 
To learn about why logs rot - click here.  

Edmunds & Company can repair all types of log home problems. Contact us to find out how we do it or call our toll free number 1-877-378-4403.