Taking Care of a Hearthstone Log Home

Hearthstone Log Homes

• Hearthstone’s hand-hewn log homes are modeled after 18th and 19th century log homes in which timberwrights used hewn-flat logs, dovetailed corners and chinking between the logs. FullScribe log homes are built with massive round logs that are carved to fit together. Hearthstone adopted the perma-chink system to replace the old chinking system, which once involved complex splicing and dovetailing of timbers and application of chicken wire and mortar mix. Perma-chink, which compresses and stretches during seasonal changes, simplifies the process of making log homes weather-tight around the chink joints and resolves issues of shrinking, settling and compression.

Finishes

• Hearthstone applies its Shellguard product, which is a preservative, termiticide and fungicide, to all sill logs before any finish is applied. The Lifeline finish, which is recommended by Hearthstone, is applied to interior and exterior walls to protect against ultraviolet sunlight, water damage, mold and mildew. Lifeline gloss finishes add to the beauty and protection. The finishes should last for three to five years with regular cleaning and consistent use of the manufacturer’s instructions. When necessary, apply new coats of the finishes. Sometimes it is necessary to remove the old finish and reapply new coats.

Cleaning

• Clean your log home regularly to remove dirt, pollen and other contaminants that can contribute to fungal growth. Special log cleaner solutions are available for application using a spray hose and nozzle. Soft brushes, nonabrasive pads and gentle cleansers help protect the finish. The supplier of perma-chink systems recommends applying the cleanser with a mist setting from the bottom of the house up, a gentle scrubbing of the logs and a thorough rinsing from the top of the house down.

Inspection

• Perma-Chink Systems, Inc. recommends semi-annual inspection of your log home. Prepare for the inspection by cleaning the exterior walls and developing a checklist of what to look for during the inspection. Carry the checklist and a sketch of your home as you inspect to mark areas for attention. Inspect the finish for cracks or damage, especially the ends of logs, which absorb more water than other surface. Take photographs during the inspection.

Sealants and Chinking

• Chinking, which is the sealant application, makes your log home weather-tight. Using the recommended products for your Hearthstone home ensures that the sealant system expands and shrinks with the logs. Perma-chink suppliers provide instructions for preparing and applying the chinking to your Hearthstone log home. The chinking is applied to new log homes, but also requires reapplication to maintain the home’s sealant system.