After a long, hard winter, it’s time to start thinking about getting your log cabin ready for spring! Here are some log cabin spring maintenance suggestions to get your cabin in tip-top shape for the upcoming warmer months!
Log Cabin Spring Maintenance
Log Walls
Take some time to inspect your cabin’s exterior log walls and be on the lookout for checks and cracks. Watch out for areas of wood that look darker than usual. Darkened areas indicate that the wood is absorbing moisture, and this requires immediate attention to prevent rot. Additionally, it’s a good idea to test your log walls by spraying water on them. If the water absorbs instead of beads, it’s time to reapply stain. Graying logs are also a sign that it is time to re-stain your cabin. By the same token, annually cleaning your logs will prolong the life of the stain. Be sure to use a gentle, eco-friendly cleaner to protect the logs. Pressure washing is also an option, but it’s not necessary unless the logs’ finish has broken down and it’s time to re-stain. Also, when pressure washing, remember to use a lower setting to avoid damage.
Gutters and Downspouts
When performing spring maintenance, inspect your cabin’s gutters and downspouts to make sure they’re not clogged with leaves or other debris. Blocked gutters and downspouts can lead to excessive moisture around your cabin’s foundation and basement. Make sure that your downspouts drain away from the foundation.
Switch from Heating to Cooling
Spring is a great time to examine your air conditioning before you really need it. A professional can clean, service, and check the coolant levels in your air conditioning unit. Be sure to change filters regularly, and shift registers from heating to cooling settings. Additionally, by reversing the rotation of your ceiling fans, the cooler air in your cabin will be forced down.
Check Out the Chimney
One thing that is often overlooked during log cabin spring maintenance is the chimney. If you use your fireplace heavily over the winter, spring is a great time to schedule a chimney sweep. Doing so will remove layers of soot and creosote to avoid a dangerous chimney fire. Even if your cabin has a gas fireplace, it should still be cleaned. Creosote is still present in gas fireplaces, but in smaller quantities.
Manage Your Landscaping
It is very beneficial to make sure that surrounding trees, shrubs, flowers, and other vegetation aren’t touching your log cabin. When vegetation comes in contact with the wood, your cabin is more likely to decay and rot. Take some time to assess your yard’s vegetation, and trim and clean things up if needed. While you’re at it, it’s not a bad idea to make sure your lawn equipment is ready for spring and summer use. Clean equipment and sharpen blades to make your life a little easier when it comes time to use them.
Spring maintenance is essential for maintaining the appearance and longevity of your log cabin. It’s always best to take care of any problems early on.