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Buying an old log house

I have found an old log house on a concrete foundation.
Before I buy it I need to evaluate if it is in good shape. I don't want to pay an appraiser for something I could easily do myself.

What do I look for to make sure the logs are sound? Is there a moisture content I should check for in bottom tier of logs?

How do I know if there is rot, insects, etc? What do I look for?

Thanks

Tags: cedar, house, log, old

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Comment by Bob Mack on December 16, 2009 at 11:43pm: Oh thats just coooozy
I would not put off a home inspection. I have been in the trades for 30 years and still learning. if nothing else his or her info will give you a bargaining chip.
Good luck let us know when the house warming party is!

Comment by Jack Reardon on August 11, 2009 at 8:11am: mainly look at the logs around the foundation,this is where you find (hopefully not) ant damage alot of times,Also you can get info from your ag dept on wood boreing bugs and what to look for.(2) test the logs tap on then a hollow sign means 2 things either its siding or rot. Take care Jack

Comment by Chris Wood on July 19, 2009 at 8:36am: Hello Gary,

This home looks very nice. Where is it located? Maybe there is an experienced builder, supplier of maintenance products or log manufacturer in this network who would come by and look. The logs closest to the ground (sill logs) and adjacent to "splashing" are most susceptible to rot and repair. Especially those fastened to any deck. Go around perimeter and knock on logs, or inspect for soft spots. If you can push a pocket knife into a bad spot, there are issues. Small spots of soft wood can be managed. Larger spots are more involved and require a professional. Any "uphill" checks or cracks pointing towards the sky where water can run in and stay need to be inspected and sealed. If this home is in an arid climate (low humidity year round), there may be no issue.

Comment by Greg SWEETS on July 10, 2009 at 7:48am: Gary I also wanted to say what a cute log cabin you have,hope you have a great day.

Comment by Greg SWEETS on July 10, 2009 at 7:46am: Gary if you go to videos in this section I have some videos on how to take care of your log home.
if that does not work you can give me a email with your address and I will send you out some
information,also we have a many seminars around the US on how to take care of your log home.
you can go to www.permachink.com and check out the dates of seminars near you.Also you can under events in here and check out my seminars.Thanks Greg

Comment by Lee & Sondra Kraley on July 10, 2009 at 12:22am: I can't answer your questions, but I did want to say what a lovely little place it is!