| This article was written to help you recognize the | | | | - A Moisture Meter with at least a one inch probe will |
| possible signs of log decay, learn the different | | | | help determine internal moisture content. |
| options for treatment and important steps on how | | | | Repair or Replacement |
| to prevent decay from occurring. | | | | If it is determined that 50% or more of the log is |
| Types of Log Decay | | | | decayed then full replacement is indicated. Less than |
| There are three types of fungi that attack wood | | | | 50% may be rectified by digging out the rotted |
| cells. Mold, sap stain and decay fungi. Mold and sap | | | | areas, coating with borate to kill insects and fungi, |
| stain do not structurally harm wood but are an | | | | and installing half log siding that matches your profile. |
| indication of excess moisture which may lead to the | | | | This area is usually sealed with a blended caulking to |
| growth of decay. This fungi feed off the structural | | | | prevent moisture from entering around the repair. |
| components of the wood fiber and cause the most | | | | Cost of Repair or Replacement |
| harm. For this to occur, moisture content of the log is | | | | The cost of repair or replacement is dependent upon |
| normally 30% and higher over extended periods of | | | | a number of factors. The average cost for half log |
| time. | | | | repair is $45-$80 per foot and full log replacement is |
| Common Areas | | | | $65-$100 per foot depending on the following. |
| It may be difficult to check every area however, the | | | | - Location of the decay. |
| most common areas to focus on when inspecting | | | | - If the repair is located in one area or several |
| your home is listed below. | | | | different areas. |
| - Lower courses above decks, hatchway doors and | | | | - Wood species. |
| areas with minimal ground clearance. | | | | - Price may be lower if the professional is doing a |
| - Area behind and around objects such as oil tanks, | | | | complete restoration or log replacement only. |
| light fixtures, intersecting roof to log wall, landscaping. | | | | Prevention |
| - Around windows and doors. | | | | Decay can always be prevented. You should perform |
| - Walls with minimal roof overhang. | | | | maintenance inspections on a regular basis. Below are |
| - Log ends | | | | some basic tips to help ensure your logs stay |
| Possible Signs | | | | protected. |
| Log decay is not always apparent. Walk around your | | | | - Borate prior to staining. (old finish must be |
| home and start by visually inspecting for the possible | | | | removed) |
| signs listed below. This does not necessarily mean | | | | - Stain using a quality log home finish. |
| there is decay but does indicate there is potential for | | | | - Install a gutter system. |
| decay to occur if the situation is left untreated. | | | | - Grade soil away from foundation. |
| - Algae | | | | - Keep landscaping away from walls. |
| - Green or blackened logs | | | | - Be sure water hoses and sprinklers are not hitting |
| - Signs of insects | | | | your home. |
| - Mold | | | | - Properly flash all doors, windows, dormers, |
| - Excessive checking, breaking or peeling | | | | chimneys. |
| - Flowering fungi | | | | - Install impel rods in areas of high moisture content. |
| How to Determine if a Log is Decayed | | | | - Clean areas of algae or mildew. |
| If you suspect a specific area, there are several | | | | - Apply maintenance coats more frequently to areas |
| methods used to help determine if decay is present. | | | | exposed to moisture. |
| It is impossible to know the extent until you begin to | | | | - Remove objects in contact with your home. |
| cut away the area. | | | | Conclusion |
| - Lightly tap with a hammer and listen for a hollow | | | | Wood that is completely protected from water will |
| sound. Taping a log you know is in good condition will | | | | never decay. If this is not possible, perform frequent |
| help you feel the difference. | | | | inspections and look for the warning signs. Simple |
| - Insert a probe. The depth of the probe can help | | | | preventative steps taken now can save you |
| determine the extent of log decay. | | | | expensive repairs in the future. |