If there’s one thing that we’ve learned from our first year of living in a log cabin, it’s to stay on top of caring for the cabin!

Caring for a log home is different than caring for a traditional home. It’s a myth that log homes require a lot of extra work — however you do need to be prepared to learn new techniques.

Especially with our cabin, we’ve noticed that staying on top of regular maintenance keeps bigger issues from happening.

What’s the best way to care for your log cabin? It’s to keep several products on hand that allow you to do routine maintenance and deal with issues that pop up quickly.

If you’re new to cabin life, bookmark the below list because it will be a lifesaver! These products are what I wish we had when we moved in:

5 Products to Keep On Hand for Log Cabin Maintenance

1. Log Cleaner

Recommended: CPR Log Cleaner

Log Cleaner is what you need to revive, clean, and brighten your logs. And if you’re planning to stain your logs — use this first. This is a must-have around the cabin because of the difference that it makes in the beauty and health of your logs. Using a cleaning agent before applying your stain and sealer helps to remove dirt, dust, pollen, and other contaminants that could affect the performance and appearance of your finish.

Order a can to keep on hand. And to see how well it works, watch the video here: CPR Log Cleaner.
 

2. Backer Rod

Recommended: foam backer rods 

Backer rod is what goes in between the logs of your home before they’re sealed with caulk or chinking. Ideally, backer rod is made of foam. It gives your home insulation and allows the sealant on top of them to easily expand and contract. To read more about how backer rod works, click here.

You want to keep backer rod on hand because it’s a fix for one of the worst problems in log homes: gaps in the logs. If you have an area that is gapping or will soon be in need of repair, you’ll want to be able to fix it quickly! It can also be used in checks or cracks that open up in the log. In most cases, anytime caulking is used on logs a backer rod should be behind it.

Along with your backer rods you’ll need:
 

3. Caulk

Recommended: Conceal Textured Caulking

Caulk is the glue that holds your house together— literally! It’s what goes between your logs to seal them and keep water, airflow, and pests out of your home.

Caulk is one of the most frequent items of your log home that needs upkeep. It’s a simple process to use caulk (video here), and it will go a long way in preserving your home. Don’t put this one off!

The type of caulk you choose is also important — I’ve recommended Conceal Textured Caulking because it blends into your home.
 

4. Gallon of Stain or Sealer

Recommended: Capture Log Stain

For routine touch-ups, keep a gallon of your preferred stain or sealer on hand. Stain does more than just color your wood — it protects it. Usually one side of the house will take the brunt of the sun and need more frequent attention. Touching up problem areas will improve the longevity of your logs. And it keeps them looking good.

If you don’t have a favorite stain yet, check out examples of colors & how to use it here.
 

5. Insecticide Spray

Recommended: BEE-Gone

If you already live in a cabin, you know how pesky carpenter bees & other wood-destroying insects can be. I know we’ve had many panicked moments trying to figure out how to bug-proof our cabin!

Stop destructive invaders with a solution like BEE-Gone. This works on: Carpenter Bees, Bark Beetles, and Carpenter Ants as well as spiders, ticks, wasps and other insects.

 

With each of these 5 products on hand, you’ll be well-prepared for the most common issues around your log home. From repairs to maintenance to bug-prevention, keeping up with your cabin’s care will you save time and money in the long run.

 

This post is sponsored by Schroeder Log Home Supply, www.loghelp.com.

About Schroeder Log Home Supply

Schroeder Log Home Supply has been serving homeowners for over 3 decades. They do more than offer the best products — they have the expertise and support to help you make the best choices for your log home. They believe that log homes leave a legacy, and their products help you take care of yours.

Get in touch with them at: https://www.loghelp.com/.