| A common problem with many log homes is gaps | | | | rubber band. Without backer rod the caulking will |
| between log courses. Over time, as moisture slowly | | | | adhere to the top and bottom log plus the area |
| evaporates from the logs, they shrink and create | | | | inside the joint. This is called three point adhesion. If |
| gaps. These gaps can cause drafts that reduce | | | | the gap expands it is very likely the caulk or |
| energy efficiency. They allow moisture to collect | | | | substrate (the log surface) will fail. |
| between logs increasing the possibility of decay and | | | | So, what can you do if you have a milled, chinkless |
| create entry points for all kinds of wood boring or | | | | log home with drafts and gaps between your logs? |
| nesting insects. | | | | First, your logs need to be cleaned. If you know |
| Many log homeowners purchase silicone to caulk | | | | what finish is on your logs you should contact the |
| areas that have large gaps. In many cases there is a | | | | caulking manufacturer for compatibility. Most finishes |
| good possibility that this will fail. Sometimes this | | | | are compatible. If you do not know the finish, you |
| situation may be even worse than doing nothing at all | | | | can test the caulk with your existing finish or have it |
| because moisture will enter openings in the failed | | | | stripped, followed by a borate application then |
| caulking and will not evaporate as quickly. This will | | | | re-stain with a compatible stain. Once the logs are |
| greatly increase the likelihood of decay and insect | | | | ready you can begin caulking using a backer rod |
| problems. | | | | wherever possible. If some gaps are too small to |
| Some common elements are essential for caulking | | | | accept backer rod, it is acceptable to caulk assuming |
| success. First, you should select a caulking specifically | | | | the logs have had adequate time to settle. |
| designed for log homes. The logs should be free of | | | | Whether you plan to caulk yourself or hire a log |
| dirt and oils. One of the most important elements of | | | | home professional this will greatly increase energy |
| caulking is the use of backer rod in the log joints. | | | | efficiency while eliminating water and insect infiltration. |
| Backer rod acts as a filler and insulator which reduces | | | | You can find very helpful information on many |
| the amount of caulking necessary. But most | | | | different websites from professionals or |
| importantly backer rod will allow the caulking to | | | | manufacturers of log home caulking products such as |
| adhere to two points, the log above the joint and | | | | Sashco and Permachink. The benefits will be well |
| the log below. The caulking will not adhere to the | | | | worth the time and money spent. |
| backer rod. This allows the caulking to stretch like a | | | | |