First off, one of the most important things you can do is to get ahead of moisture. Moisture is the enemy of wood—always has been, always will be. So the goal is to keep water away from the logs as much as possible. That means making sure your gutters are working properly, your downspouts are directing water away from the foundation, and there’s no splashback from the ground. A little gravel around the base and wide eaves can go a long way. If you’ve ever seen logs with that greenish-black stuff near the bottom, yep, that’s what happens when water hangs around too long.
And speaking of protection, don’t skip out on staining and sealing. You don’t have to do it every year, but it’s not a one-and-done kind of thing either. A good stain, followed by a high-quality sealant, acts like a raincoat for your cabin. It helps the logs handle sunlight, snow, and humidity without soaking it all in. Choose products that work well for your climate. What works in Colorado might not cut it in Florida. And when you do apply it, take your time—brush it in, follow the grain, and let it dry like it’s supposed to.
Another big help is to think about your landscaping. Believe it or not, the way your yard is set up can really affect how much work your cabin needs. Try to keep bushes, trees, and flower beds away from the walls. When plants grow too close, they trap moisture and create the perfect hiding spots for bugs. Plus, it’s just harder to check the walls when everything’s overgrown. A clear perimeter not only looks clean but lets your logs breathe a little.
