Log Cabin Perts & Experts

DavidC

This is more for my curiosity than anything else.

While visiting a client today I noticed silicone caulk chinking and filling most of the cracks in the logs. Also a sheen that made me think a fresh clear coat overall.

I asked the Mrs. if the caulk helped with anything, she didn't know anything except her hubby just refinished the exterior.

I'm wondering if he did something he shouldn't have with all of that silicone?

Good Luck
Dave

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TimNJ

Regular silicone caulk doesn't sound right. Contact this company, Beaver Mountain Log Homes. They are east of Binghamton and I'm sure they will set you straight. I don't have the web address handy try googling them. I toured their factory and they are a top quality company.

RayGoerdt

I don't think silicone is the answer on logs, I use "Logbuilder" caulk when applied right it will stretch over an inch. As for the sheen , I have found that any finish that creates a hard coating is not the best for log, as it will not allow the logs to breath.

Good luck

TracyMC

I have use Perma Chink on the 8-10 Neville Homes I have done and have nver been disappointed with the performance, it is fairly expensive though. Never silicone, I have not seen a silicone product hold up to that amount of movement.
Trace

reveivl

Why are they relying on caulk at all? Shouldn't be necessary if the place was built well.

Someone spends the kind of cash required for a log home and then relies on caulking to keep it dry? Give me a break.

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RayGoerdt

Alot of the time caulking is used to stop drafts and insects. No matter how good the log builder is log shifting, shrinkage and other movement may cause small gaps in the chink line, and insects are often a problem too.

Many times the HO will opt for a wide chink line simply for the accent it provides.

DavidC

Thanks for the replies. This is definitely a HO DIY project, and I'm sure the guy is proud of a "good job well done". I noticed it while waiting for her to answer the door. My radar clicked on immediately but I don't have much knowledge or experience with log homes.

Perhaps the worst of it is damage to the resale value.

Good Luck
Dave

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dts1

RayG has it figured out. The gap between the logs can be filled wth what ever to prevent drafts. In the old days it was mud and moss mixed togther. so silicone, not the best but it could work.This is called chinking but to fill every little crack in the log, its going to look like crap after a while. more work later!