How to look after your log cabin all year round

Having a log cabin is a fantastic experience. However as with any structure, it needs a little TLC to maintain its splendour.

In order for your log cabin to last long-term, there are a few simple steps you need to take to maintain its upkeep.

Unlike conventional structures, a Norwegian Log cabin is virtually maintenance free on the inside and will never need re-decorating, unless you decide to change the colour of one of the rooms in a few years’ time.

We apply a translucent UV protector once the cabin has been assembled so the log is protected and easy to keep clean. We offer a 12-month check-up as part of our contact plus a bi-annual inspection plan that allows customers to extend the warranty from five years up to 25 years.

General log cabin maintenance

To keep your log cabin in tip-top condition, here are the key maintenance tasks you have to perform:

Manual checks

Around twice a year, take a walk around and inspect your log cabin. Check the logs, sealing, and around the gutters.

Washing

At least once a year, give the outside of your log cabin a good wash, either by hand or with a hose. This is necessary to remove any cobwebs, leaves, or algae that may have accumulated on its exterior.

Clean out the gutters

A blocked or overflowing gutter could allow excess water to run onto the log, which over time could cause damage. So make sure to clean out the gutters on a regular basis, and unblock the downpipes from any leaves or debris. Placing a mesh over the top of your gutters and downpipes will help keep out any debris.

UV protection

Exterior walls are subject to wind, rain, sun, and ultra violet light, so it is important to treat them with UV protector every two years. Do not apply the colour stain again as this will make the walls go darker. The UV protector will maintain the lustre of the timbre, provided it is treated regularly. Other walls not exposed to the weather can be treated when needed.

Drainage

The soil around your log cabin should slope downwards to promote sufficient drainage away from your foundation. So make sure to regularly inspect the ground around your cabin. If the soil has compacted and there is a negative slope, you may need to add some fresh topsoil. You also need to ensure that the soil has not collected around the piers, and is preventing air flow, otherwise it could cause moisture, and if it comes into contact with the timber it can affect the laminated bean subframe.

Norwegian Log maintenance

Customer satisfaction is our priority at Norwegian Log, so we want your cabin to last just as much as you do. Here are the maintenance services we offer:

12-month check-up

As part of the contract, Norwegian Log return to the client after 12 months and carry out a full service checkup of the building. This includes:

General inspection
We carry out a general inspection of the building and report our findings. We detail any work required that is not covered under the warranty.

Walls
We carry out an inspection of the walls of the cabin and make adjustments if necessary to ensure even log settlement. We also remove wind post cover plates, and loosen and adjust fittings as required.

Roof
We inspect the roof tiles and shingles, rooflight flashings, fascia, and bargeboards. We undertake all warranty works necessary and report any additional works required, including storm damage.

Rainwater system
We clean out all the rainwater guttering and downpipes, and check and replace the gutter joint seals if necessary. We also take down and re-align the guttering as necessary to ensure free-flowing drainage from the roof.

Joinery
We carry out inspection and adjustments as necessary to all doors and windows, and re-cut architrave mitres as necessary. We also oil and grease the locks and hinges as necessary to ensure smooth operation.

External stain treatment
We clean and hand wash all the external timber surfaces, including wiping them down.

Internal stain treatment
We carry out an inspection of the internal stain treatment.

Bi-annual inspection

Norwegian Log offer an extended warranty from five years up to 25 years provided the client takes out our bi-annual inspection plan.

We visit the cabin every two years and prepare a report recommending any work that needs to be carried out to maintain the cabin in good condition and validate the extended warranty. This service provides peace for the client and protects their investment and ensures that the work is carried out as part of the contract.

With the right upkeep, residential log homes and log cabins can be a great long-term investment.