Early in the development of several civilizations, log structures were part of the human shelter system where forests provided the primary source of building material. As these civilizations evolved and grew, log preservation and maintenance became more of an issue and the need for permanent structures brought new consideration.

Log construction and preservation is known to have begun in ancient history around 700 BCE in Eastern Europe. During this time, several techniques were recorded that were used to make the wood last for extended periods of time with no decay. Some of these include, special gouges at the ends and corners to drain rain and water, organic applications that stunted fungal growth and waterproofed as well as stone foundations that protected the logs from insect decay.

From this short summary of ancient techniques to preserve wood, we can see how important it still is to us today with our modern methods of preservation. It is important to remember, before planning and building a log home, that there are special consideration with wood as opposed to brick or concrete. You should understand your wood on a microscopic and organic level in order to get the best out of its beauty and exquisite look.

As an owner of a log home, it is important to understand a few basic facts about wood in order to keep your home properly maintained and to avoid costly future repairs. The preservation and maintenance of a log home is affected by geographical location as well as an understanding of the biological agents harmful to wood. Other factors to be noted are local building codes and regulations, successful local practices and special situations.

Let’s begin by focusing on the stuff that dream homes are made of: Wood. It is a cellular substance that makes up the bulk of a tree and is made up of water, waxes, gums, starches, alkaloids and oils composed of in the cell cavity. It is like a honeycomb composed mainly of hollow, tubular cells that give wood its amazing strength, insulating value and allows it to hold water, oxygen and nutrients.

One of the main causes of wood decay are insects whose primary source of food and shelter is wood. Termites and other forms of beetles eat at the cell wall of the wood structure and than lay their eggs and colonize. Once hatched the new bugs come out and begin the eating and colonization process all over again. What you can do to help prevent this from starting is to make sure you pre-treat your wood with a preservative. Other options are a chemical soil treatment and the placement of physical barriers into the wood in the form of metal or plastic shields in the areas of termite infestation.

A Secondary source of wood decay is Sapstain Fungi and mold. These organisms feed on the nutrients inside the cellular structure of the wood, causing unsightly discoloration looking like black, gray, bluish-green and white. The wood then becomes more porous and increases the chances for increased moisture content conducive for decay. Some wood is naturally resistant to fungal attack due to natural extractives and oils present in the wood (e.g., cedars, redwood, cypress). EPA-registered wood preservatives are designed to make the wood unsuitable as a food source for fungi or insects. These preservatives prevent decay and kill any insects already in the wood. A homeowner or builder can also apply these topical treatments if it has not been done before delivery.

Now you have an idea of how some tiny organism can destroy a huge log! With an understanding of wood’s biological make up and the necessary preservatives, you can stop this process and prevent new infestations. Don’t forget to get some advise from a local construction company or consult your representative on the wood treatment practices in your local area. Remember, if you live in an area of dry weather, it’s a form of a preservative. Just keep in mind the cellular structure of your wood, its strengths and weaknesses, and you will be successful in maintaining and protecting your wood.

Get ideas from a Bathroom Remodeling Contractor in Los Angeles, CA This article, What’s Eating At Your Wood? is released under a creative commons attribution licence.

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