How do I Restore a 1750 Log House?

Inspection of Existing Structure

• 1

  Clean the structure of all debris using a concentrated cleanser and a bristle brush.

• 2

  Blast timbers with a sand or corn cob treatment to peel off layers of old stain. Don't use a water-based pressure wash, as it causes the logs to swell and will soften the wood.

• 3

  Tap each log with a hammer, walking along the structure. Work from the bottom up, tapping one log at a time along the length of it. If the log sounds hollow, probe with an icepick to determine the depth of the decay. Mark each decayed log or spot with masking tape.

• 4

  Take detailed pictures of each side and corner of the log structure.

• 5

  Tag each log, especially if you need to disassemble and reassemble the structure on a new foundation, or to move it to an alternate location.

Reassembly and Repair

• 6

  Erect a solid foundation, either on piers, stone or cinder block. The first logs to rot away are those in contact with the ground, so make certain your foundation has at least a 12-inch clearance.

• 7

  Prepare for any modern amenities, such as plumbing, electricity and heating.

• 8

  Attach the first course of logs using lag bolts to affix the logs to the foundation.

• 9

  Repair any log damage with either replacement sections of logs or with epoxy. Brace any wall before removing damaged parts. Replace with logs that are similar in shape, diameter and type of wood. Cedar is a good choice, since it resists insect infestation. Splice in the new log piece and attach with wood screws. Epoxy can fill holes and cracks and can be shaped with conventional woodworking tools.

• 10

  Replace entire logs only when absolutely necessary. Create a temporary support for the logs above the damaged area and jack up the wall so you can insert the new logs. Use the notching technique employed on the rest of the home to assure a good fit.

Create a Weathertight Seal

• 11

  Chink or caulk to fill in the gaps between the logs and around the windows and doors. Caulk can be used if the gap is less than 1/2-inch. For larger gaps, use chinking which has a fine sand in it. Install a foam backer board behind the line of chinking. This acts as an insulation barrier, and it allows the chink to be more flexible on both the outside and the inside of the home.

• 12

  Create a new roofline with a long overhang to protect the logs from water damage. Install gutters and downspouts. Traditional roofing is either wood shakes or a metal roof.

• 13

  Apply a concentrated borate paste to the logs to protect against insects and fungus. Finish with a sealer or stain.