Tips on Caring For Your Wood

Suggestions on how to care for your log home products:

Exterior wood products:
Materials should be stored under a roof until used. They should be stacked on 2×4’s on top of concrete. If that is not possible, stack on 4×4’s that are placed on top of a tarp, tar paper or plastic.

Cover all sides with a tarp. If a tarp is not available, black plastic can be used instead.

When choosing your exterior finish, keep in mind that the darker the stain, the more protection it will offer against ultraviolet rays. There are many different brands of stain but we prefer the Sikkens products. 
Interior Wood Products:
Materials should be stored under a roof until used.

Lumber for interior use has been kiln dried differently than lumber for exterior use and MUST BE KEPT DRY.

Pine doors that are not installed immediately must be sealed on all sides and stored in a warm, dry place.

If you purchase quarter or half log for interior use, we recommend storing it inside your home for two weeks to let is acclimate. Lumber is kiln dried differently for interior and exterior use.

If you want the natural look for your interior wood, we suggest using a non-yellowing finish. Keep in mind that ultraviolet rays will affect the color.

For the best results when finished, lightly sand the wood in between coast of finish.

It is very important to use a humidifier after you have installed wood products in your home. The best type is one installed on your furnace if forced air is used. If not, a portable humidifier is an acceptable option.

Using these guidelines will minimize any shrinking or swelling of the wood and will result in less maintenance.

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