Where does log home maintenance fit in?
Monday, April 14th, 2014 | Uncategorized | No Comments
Before I get into this subject let me post a correction to the prior post. I assure you I was not under the influence of any mind altering substance, probably just fatigued or in a hurry and I had a proverbial “brain f—.“ Near the end of the last sentence in the post I wrote the almost archaic word “physic” when I meant to write “psychic.” However, if you entered into a do-it-yourself project that you shouldn’t have, you might welcome the cathartic relief of a physic. In any case, I stand corrected.
In the early stages of the modern log home industry a myth was created—LOG HOMES ARE MAINTENANCE FREE! A number of factors contributed to and fueled this myth, not the least of which were sales representatives who were trying to induce prospects to buy their products. If you don’t already know it, this is a myth!
About two years ago we developed a periodic/preventative maintenance program and initiated a testing and debugging period to refine the program. We sought to address a number of issues including but not limited to periodic maintenance, preventative maintenance, remedial processes, warranty, cosmetics and costs.
After the initial exterior finish is applied to a log home the weather and sun begin to deteriorate the finish. Unfortunately, many log home owners do not carefully track this deterioration until it becomes blatantly obvious. By then minor problems that have developed become far more serious and far more costly to address. Additionally, the home’s curb appeal and cosmetic appearance suffer. This results in a “roller coaster” effect with a bright like new look to a dull, shabby, weathered look. Like many things in life, you get used to it, live with it, until it gets unbearable. Then you have to face the music. And, little problems that could have been dealt with three, four or five years ago now become big problems requiring significant effort and cost to rectify.
Our five year maintenance program is geared to preventing big problems from developing, keeping the cosmetic appearance as it was after the initial finish was applied, prolonging the life of the finish and perpetuating the warranty from the exterior finish manufacturer. In brief, the program consists of annual washing and inspections with recommended remedial or preventative processes as required. At the third anniversary a fresh top coat is applied to add depth and luster to the appearance and prolong the life of the finish. At the fifth anniversary a deep cleaning and re- application of a total exterior finish system is completed.
Participating in this maintenance program assures you of a cosmetically appealing exterior, prolonged life of the finish, protection of the wood substrate, easier maintenance and the prevention of serious problems from developing. In short, pride in your home and peace of mind.
