Chinking & Caulking

Caulk or Chink for Your Log Home: Which is Right for You?

Choosing the right material to seal your log home is crucial for longevity and comfort. The general guideline is that if the gap between the log courses is around ¾ of an inch or less, use caulk. For gaps larger than ¾ of an inch, chink is a better choice.

Understanding Caulk and Chink

Both caulk and chink are designed to withstand the movement of a log home. For larger openings, using a Grip Strip backer rod helps to create a flat surface, which lets the chink stretch easily, much like a rubber band. A properly chinked or caulked log home will significantly improve energy efficiency, making it easier to cool and heat. Any gaps around doors, windows, between log courses, and in corners can affect the comfort of your home. Failing or improperly installed caulk and chink are some of the main causes of log rot.

Key Recommendations for Handling Log Checks:

Leave Most Checks Open:
- Logs naturally expand and contract due to temperature changes. Filling checks can trap moisture, leading to log rot.
- Instead, treat open checks with a borate concentrate like Shell Guard to prevent rot and allow natural ventilation.
Exceptions for Filling Checks:
- Fill checks if they lead to corners, door jambs, or window frames, where they might allow wind, water, or pests into the home.
- Inspections should occur 2-3 times per year to identify and repair failures.
Proper Materials for Filling Checks:
- Use latex caulk specifically designed for log homes, such as:
  - Perma-Chink’s Energy Seal
  - Sashco’s Conceal
- Avoid:
  - Silicone: It doesn’t chemically bond with wood and may interfere with future treatments or finishes.
  - Chinking: Not suitable for small cracks or lines.
Ongoing Maintenance:
- Treat checks with Shell Guard Concentrate every 2-3 years to prevent rot and preserve log durability.
- This approach ensures checks remain breathable while providing protection.

Conclusion:

This method maintains your log home's structural integrity and energy efficiency while protecting it against rot, water infiltration, and pests. Regular inspection and proper maintenance are critical for long-term care.