5 Steps to Maintain the Dream Through the Seasons

Hello Friends,
How many of you are ready to accept that summer is on its way out?  Oh, I know that we have the entire month of August yet, but summertime will soon be fading into a fabulous fall.  Fall is probably my favorite season, but as it approaches, some chores must be accomplished and schedules re-introduced.  At our house, that means getting in the hay and firewood, cleaning up the gardens and getting ready for school to begin again.  

For log home owners, it is also a perfect time to take a look at our homes for any yearly maintenance needs.  For a more thorough explanation of the how and why, please read our previous blog posts Log Home Care and A Letter From Your Log Home.  For now, here is a quick fall check-list.

1. Make sure you do not have firewood or other debris stacked too near or against the log walls.  If you live in an area where you get snow, the stacked wood, being too close to your walls, will trap moisture causing potential problems.
2. Inspect for any summertime insect damage or infestation.  Look for any piles of "sawdust" around your home.  Use any kind of insecticide you feel comfortable with and deal with this right away.  A borate based product will be safe for you and your pets.
3. Look for any damage created by the hot summer temperatures.  UV damage from the sun can sometimes create issues with the stain.  Look for discoloration or peeling.
4. Keep an eye on any checks in your logs.  Are they widening?  Do you see new ones?  You are looking for any large (1/4"), up-facing checks or checks with signs of bug or water damage.  Keep in mind that the length of the crack is not as important as the width.
5. Take a look at the condition of the chinking on your home.  Make sure it is  not pulling away from the logs.  You do not want to see any gaps.  

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After walking around your home and checking these 5 things off your list, pat yourself on the back for being such a good log home owner.  Why not continue your walk with your spouse and even bring along your favorite hot beverage! Contemplate the cooler weather and the smell of fall in the air.  That's it.  Your fall inspection is complete.  It will soon be time to just enjoy your cozy log home for the coming holidays. (Sorry, but the older I get, the quicker time flies by... can you relate?)

If you find anything that concerns you during your inspection, take notes, and you may also find it helpful to take some photos.  If the concern is something you can address yourself, make sure to check it off your list right away.  You'll want to accomplish this while the weather is still good.  You can also send us your photo with your concern and get some professional advice. (406)847-2316 / mtspecialty@gmail.com

I hope you've found this reminder and quick overview helpful.  Although I am not quite ready to let go of summer, I do look forward to the scents and signs of fall. Woodsmoke in the air, golden leaves, cozy sweaters and homemade applesauce.  I am thankful for the seasons.  I am also thankful for you.  Thanks for stopping by again.

Until next time,
​Blessings, 

P.S.
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