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Important Considerations When Buying an Existing Log Cabin

With a booming real estate market and continued low interest rates, some are ready to buy their dream Log Home. When purchasing any home, it is standard practice to have a home inspection, ensuring you are not “biting off more than you can chew” in needed repairs. Unfortunately, many home inspectors are not familiar enough with Log Homes to understand and provide an informative report on the condition of the home. Here are a few unique problems to consider during your pre-purchase inspection.

  • Log Rot: A visual inspection looking for signs of rot, such as discoloration, failing wood or mold. Bring a hammer with you and ask for permission to tap on the logs. You’ll be able to hear a difference between a log that is rotting and one that is not. A log that is rotting will produce a hollow sound compared to a solid log. Also, some logs with interior rot usually bounce the hammer back, whereas a solid log will stop the hammer.
  • Failing Finish or Stain: In most cases, a visual inspection is sufficient to determine how the stain is holding up. How does the stain look (i.e. wood without stain, varying color)? Is the staining patchy or flaky? Pay attention to the south and west walls of the cabin, are they faded? Don’t be afraid to ask how long it’s been since the stain was applied.
  • Signs of Insect Infestation: The most obvious signs of bug infestation are the entry holes in the logs. Infestations often begin in the log ends, where drying cracks open the wood. These are essential areas to view. In severe infestation, you can a hear certain bugs chewing through the wood.
  • Improper Flashing: Flashing helps prevent moisture from entering the home or accumulating around the logs where the deck and roof attach, and around openings in the roof for things like chimneys. If flashing is not added to these areas or has failed, moisture can build up, or enter the attic of the home. This can lead to mold growth in attic spaces, which can lower the air quality inside the home.
  • Failing Caulk and Chinking: Caulking (chinking) is the sealant between the logs. In particular, you should check the condition of the caulk and that is it all intact. If there are: chunks missing; gaps or tears; or if the caulking is messy, this shows the cabin hasn’t been maintained very well. It is usually an easy fix, but something that shouldn’t be ignored.

Quick tip to ensure that your log cabin stays in good condition after purchasing?

As Benjamin Franklin wisely said, ‘An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.’ Simple steps like washing your home, giving it a yearly inspection, and preventing issues before they happen will save major headaches in the long run. The team at 888 Log Guys are experts in maintaining Log homes and Cabins. Call and get added to our annual home maintenance list!