Winter Proofing Log Homes is Important

Fall is the best time of year for an early start on winter proofing log homes. There is a lot you can do now to towards getting your log home ready for winter and save yourself from last-minute frantic trips to the home and garden stores when the first storm hits.

Routine maintenance for the winter season should be done before the first big snow if possible. You don’t need a professional’s toolbox to do this. You only need a few simple items and the list we’ve provided here. Many things you can address on your own. However, if you find any extensive damage or aren’t sure about what you see, give our professionals here at Prolog Restorations a call at 877-477-6564. We’ll be happy to help.

Winterize Landscaping

Leave at least 12-18 inches between landscaping (bushes, etc.) and walls, and make sure trees are regularly trimmed to keep them from rubbing against or overshadowing home too much. Be sure to keep any stacked firewood away from the log walls as it is usually full of critters you do not want moving into your log home.

Inspect Your Furnace

Call an HVAC professional to inspect your furnace and clean ducts. Consider switching out traditional thermostats for programmable ones. Many use Bluetooth technology that allows you to control the temperature remotely using your smart phone. (If you use your log home for vacations, ski trips, or getaways, you’re going to love this!)

Check Your Chimney

Check for cracked mortar or flue pipes, debris such as bird’s nests, and white or green stains that signal mold or mildew. If it hasn’t been cleaned in awhile, arrange for a chimney sweep to remove ash, debris, and creosote.

Eaves

Water stains, cracks between the roof and walls and the presence of insects or animals such as bats or mice can all be signs of trouble. Call a professional for an evaluation.

Windows

Check weather stripping and caulking around edges of all windows. Watch for signs of leaking or water damage. Switch out summer screens with glass. If you have storm windows, time to install them. This is an easy but important part of winter proofing log homes.

Walls

Inspect logs on outside of building for cracks, checks, or peeling. Re-stain or reseal if necessary. If you’re already experiencing low temperatures, be sure to check with a log home professional to make sure the temperature and humidity are right. Check caulking around windows, doors, exhaust pipes and near fireplace. Check logs themselves for knots that are popping out, signs of possible insect presence, rot, water stains, soft and porous wood, mold and mildew.

Foundation

Are there cracks in the foundation? Look for green or white stains, mold or mildew that indicates moisture damage.

Prepare an Emergency Kit

This isn’t really a part of the log home, but having an emergency kit for the long winter months is always a good idea. Gather a supply of candles and matches / lighter for use during a power shortage. Find the phone numbers for your utility companies and tape them near your phone or add them to your cell phone contact list.  Store extra bottled water and non-perishable food supplies (including pet food), blankets and a first-aid kit in a dry and easy-to-access location.

Get Free Info to Care for Your Log Home

Use this guide for winter proofing log homes this fall. Also, be sure to check out our checklists and information for caring for your log home by downloading our Free Book here. And if you find anything suspicious as you check and prep your home for winter, please feel free to call us at 877-477-6564 and we’ll help you out!