Sarah Shaffer, Author at Sashco

Let’s face it, if you own, build, or work on a log home, you’re not just navigating the complexities of wood (which is finicky enough). You’re going head-to-head with the elements. That beautiful log home? It’s under constant attack from moisture, insects, fungi, and good old Father Time.

In fact, here’s the hard truth. There are only two kinds of wood: wood that’s already rotten, and wood that’s waiting for its turn. Grim? A little. Preventable? Absolutely! If you’re using the right tools.

Enter, borates.

So grab a coffee, and let’s walk through what you actually need to know to keep that gorgeous log structure protected from bugs and rot.

What Are Borates, Anyway?

Borates are the silent-but-deadly type. They are harmless to you, but a nightmare for pests. Technically, they’re mineral salts derived from boron, a natural element found in soil, water, plants, and even inside your body.

They’re non-toxic to humans and pets (about as dangerous as table salt), but absolutely devastating to the pests that love to snack on your log home, think termites, powder-post beetles, old house borers, and the main villain, fungi that cause wood rot.

Unlike contact killers, borates work smarter. Insects and fungi must ingest the treated wood. Once they do, borates disrupt their systems and essentially starve them. It’s nature’s very own pest control (pretty clever, eh?).

Note: Because carpenter bees don’t eat the wood—they just chew and spit—it won’t affect them. You’ll need a different strategy for those guys. Here are tips on how to deal with carpenter bees.

Board Defense, Borate Based Wood Preservative for Log Homes

The Batman & Robin of Log Protection

Now let’s talk about the application. The go-to combo for surface and internal protection is Board Defense and Cobra Borate Rods. Used together, they offer layered defense, both externally and internally.

Board Defense is a borate powder concentrate made from disodium octaborate tetrahydrate (sounds like a villain from a Marvel movie, but it’s actually the same active ingredient you’d find in Tim-Bor). Use it on any bare wood you want to protect, everywhere from framing and attics to crawlspaces and plumbing chases — and logs, of course. It’s ideal for both new builds and maintenance on existing structures.

Cobra Borate Rods: Like Daily Vitamins for Your Logs

Log ends close to the ground
Water-splash zones
Around windows and doors
Any area prone to holding moisture

And yes, rod size does matter. Use the right diameter and length for your application. We’ve got charts for that. Don’t wing it.

Specialized Applications Are Where Borates Really Shine

Borates are versatile, but they really earn their keep in specific problem areas. Let’s take a look at where they work best.

Log Replacement Projects

Replacing rotten logs? Don’t cut corners. Soak new logs in a borate solution, treat checks, and insert rods (bonus points for pressure-treated logs with borates already infused, great for warranties).

Antique Log Homes

Want to keep the classic look and gray patina? Stains are off the table, but borates aren’t. Treat annually, then finish with a matte clear coat (like Cascade®) for added protection. (Disclaimer because lawyers: in general, Sashco would never recommend just a clear coat on a surface. But, in these historic homes where the historic society says you can’t, any protection is better than none.)

New Construction & Interiors

Before you button up walls or cabinets, dust a little borate powder into hidden spaces. Pests like ants and roaches groom themselves (gross, but helpful), so crawling through the powder eventually knocks them out.

Spot Treatment for Infestations

Beetles in barn wood? Inject borate solution directly into exit holes with a ketchup bottle or marinade injector. Once they eat it, bam—bugs gone.

Log Railings

Outdoor railings are prone to checks and rot. Drill in Cobra™ Rods, coat with borate solution, and add weep holes so moisture doesn’t stick around. Future you will be grateful.

Three Cheers for Borates

Borates are one of the safest, most affordable, and most effective ways to protect your log home from rot and bugs. Products like Board Defense are perfect for surface treatments. They’re easy to apply and highly effective when used on bare wood. For deeper, long-term protection, Cobra Borate Rods are your best friend, working from the inside out to guard against decay where moisture tends to sneak in.

This dynamic duo isn’t just for one type of job, either. Whether you’re dealing with antique log homes, new construction, railing systems, or replacing damaged logs, borates have a place in the plan. If you’re in the log home world—contractor or homeowner—don’t overlook the power of these small but mighty tools. They’re not flashy, but they’re foundational. And sometimes, quiet protection is the best kind.

Log Home Maintenance is Always the First Line of Defense

Just don’t forget that all of this works best when it’s paired with solid log home maintenance.

Borates are excellent backup, but they’re not bulletproof. The real MVP is still a well-maintained stain and sealant system. That outer shell keeps water out and borates in. Without it? You’re only doing half the job. Make annual maintenance checks part of the routine. If you’re a contractor, offer it to your clients. Catch rot early. Stay off ladders later.

Need help building out a maintenance plan? We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to protect your investment or a contractor wanting to offer added value to clients, we can help you create a smart, effective maintenance strategy that keeps your logs looking great for years to come.

*_About_{Sashco Log Home Products}***

_{When it comes to protecting and beautifying your log home, Sashco isn’t just another stain on the market — it’s the high-performance} _{choice for serious log lovers. With industry-leading products like Capture, Cascade, and Transformation, Sashco combines cutting-edge technology and rugged durability to keep your logs looking stunning and standing strong year after year. Whether you’re chasing that perfect finish or just want to avoid the heartbreak of costly repairs, Sashco’s got your back. Because your log home deserves more than “good enough,” it deserves Sashco. Made for logs. Made to last. Made to make your neighbors jealous.}

Even the most well-built and finished log homes require a little TLC from time to time.

You may have spotted a crack along the caulk line or noticed some chinking starting to pull away. Leave the paper bag for lunch. There’s no need to panic, log home chinking and caulking repairs are completely normal.

Logs shift and settle with the seasons, which means your sealants go through a lot. Imagine constant exposure to sun, wind, rain, and even a curious bird or two. With all that pressure, a few tears may be expected. The good news? With the right info and a little elbow grease, most of these issues are easy DIY fixes. Let’s walk through what to look for, how to repair it, and how to keep your log home sealed up tight for the long haul.

Is It Time for a Touch-Up? Here’s What to Look For.

Start with a simple walk-around inspection (bonus points if you have coffee in hand). Especially after a rough winter or a prolonged period of heat, inspect those sun-exposed and moisture-prone areas. Keep an eye out for:

Sealant pulling away from the logs
Gaps between logs or around windows and doors
Cracks or tears in the chinking or caulk
Discoloration, soft spots, or water stains on the surface of the wood (signs that some sealant needs to be applied somewhere nearby)
Drafts or evidence of bugs slipping through

Tiny issues can turn into big problems fast, so catch ’em early and save yourself the headache later (use this handy checklist to help guide you).

Adhesive vs. Cohesive Tears: What’s the Difference?

Not all sealant issues are created equal. Knowing the difference between adhesive and cohesive tears helps you fix it the right way.

Cohesive Sealant Tear Example — #image_title

Adhesive Tear Sealant Example — #image_title

Adhesive tears: Adhesive tears occur when the sealant pulls away from the wood. You’ll see gaps or places where it’s just not sticking anymore. Usually caused by poor prep, wetter wood drying out and causing excessive movement, joints that may be too narrow for the log diameter, incompatibility with the stain used, or good ol’ aging.
Cohesive tears: Cohesive tears happens when the sealant tears in the middle, like a caramel pulled past its limit. Either your logs did a little extra shifting, or the movement was beyond the elasticity of the product used, or once again — good ol’ aging.

Either way, don’t stress. Both are fixable with the same basic repair approach.

Why Does This Even Happen?

Log homes are a different animal compared to standard stick-frame homes. The logs breathe, move, swell, and shrink with the weather. That natural movement puts stress on joints and sealants over time. Think of it like trying to stretch a rubber band around a growing tree. Without the right support and flexibility, something’s gonna give.

How to Fix Sealant Tears Like a Boss

Now that you understand the whys of sealant tears, let’s get to the nitty-gritty. How do you fix it? Whether you’re dealing with adhesive tears (pulling away) or cohesive tearing, the repair process is almost the same. Here’s how to do it the right way:

1. Remove the damaged sealant (adhesive tears) or relieve the pressure of the tear (cohesive tears).

For adhesive tears: Use a utility knife, scraper, or oscillating tool to remove the bad stuff cleanly. Make sure to scrape off any leftover gunk so the new sealant has a clean surface to stick to.

For cohesive tears: As long as you’ve used either a Sashco product or another compatible sealant that will stick to itself, simply use a utility knife to relieve the pressure. No need to cut everything out. You just want that tear to not be stretched to the limit anymore. (Check with us about compatibility to be sure before you go this route.)

2. Clean the surface.

Use a log-home-safe cleaner like CPR Log Cleaner or old-reliable itself, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely. This step is not optional—trust us.

3. Check the gap.

If it’s deeper than ¼” and no backer rod is already in there, time to insert a backer rod. It keeps the sealant from bonding to the bottom of the joint (which you don’t want) and lets it move more easily with the logs.

4. Apply the right sealant.

Use something made for log homes. Sashco’s Conceal and Log Builder are solid picks and will stick to themselves, if that’s what you’re repairing. (Log Jam, too!) All of these products are flexible and built to move with your home. Load up your caulk gun and run a smooth bead along the joint. On cohesive repairs, go right over top of the tear, making sure to extend the new bead past the torn area to cover it completely.

5. Tool the bead.

Use a spatula, trowel, spoon, or damp foam brush to smooth it out and press it into place. Don’t skip it! This step ensures solid contact between the sealant and the logs.

6. Let it cure.

Avoid water, rain, or freezing temps for the first few days after application. No pressure washing just yet!

What Not to Do (Seriously, Don’t)

We get it. It’s tempting to slap some fresh caulk over old sealant and call it good. But resist the urge. A few things to avoid:

Don’t apply new sealant over dirty material
Don’t grab just any tube of caulk from the garage – make sure what you’re using is fresh AND compatible with what’s already on there
Don’t skip the backer rod if the gap calls for it
Don’t forget to tool your bead (it’s not just for looks, we promise)

Shortcuts here can lead to more expensive repairs later. Take the extra 15 minutes, it’s worth it.

When to Call in a Pro

Most minor issues? Totally DIY. But if you see signs of rot, water damage, mold, or large-scale sealant failure, it’s time to call in backup. Use Sashco’s contractor locator to find a trusted pro near you.

Owning a log home is kind of like being in a relationship. Sure, it takes attention, care, the occasional check-in, and knowing when to smooth things over (couldn’t resist a cheesy tooling pun now could we?) But when problems pop up, you don’t have to panic or break the bank. With a free weekend and the right products, you can tackle small sealant repairs like a pro and feel confident in the upkeep of your beautiful home.

Need help picking the right product? We’re always here to help you. No pressure, just friendly guidance. Reach out to our team or check out our How-To & Product Guide to get started.

*_About_{Sashco Log Home Products}***

Blisters in Your Caulk or Chinking? Here’s How to Fix It Without Losing Your Cool or Customer!

You laid down your bead, smoothed it out, stepped back to admire it, and bam, there it is. A blasted blister. That dang little bubble that shows up right when you’re trying to wrap up (end of the day, over budget, thumb still throbbing from that ladder incident. Classic. We’ve all been there). First things first, it’s not the end of the world. It happens every now and again, and it’s easy to fix.

Let’s walk through why it happens, what to do about it, and how to avoid it next time.

So, Why the Blister?

Blisters in caulking and chinking usually show up when moisture vapor trapped underneath tries to escape, but the surface has already skinned over. That trapped moisture pushes up, and boom, a bubble.

It’s more likely to happen when:

Caulk or chinking was applied in direct sun.
The surface was too hot (Sashco recommends temps be between 40°F and 90°F. If the surface is hot to the touch, it’s too hot for applying sealants.)
The weather was hot (See above, rarely is the weather hot and the surface not.)
The surface was still damp when you started.

Caulk dries from the outside in. If the surface skins over too fast (like when you’re working in the sun or on a hot, damp surface), that moisture gets trapped and pushes up. That’s your blister. It’s not a mess-up, just moisture trapped where it shouldn’t be.

how to fix chinking and caulking blisters

Caulking or chinking dries from the outside in. If the surface stings over too fast, moisture gets trapped and pushes up.

Can You Prevent It? Yeah, Most of the Time.

If you’ve got some flexibility in the job timing, shoot for:

Cooler times of day (early morning or evening).
Shaded areas instead of direct sun.
Dry surfaces (actually dry, not “it rained six hours ago” dry).

Still, sometimes the conditions just aren’t ideal. That’s life. The good news is that fixing a blister is simple.

How to Fix a Blister in Caulking or Chinking

You’ve got two scenarios: the caulk is dry, or it’s still curing. Here’s what to do for both.

If the Caulk Is Cured:

Cut the blister out with a utility knife. Get rid of the damaged section.
Fill the spot with fresh caulk or chinking. Use the same type you used before.
Tool it smooth so it blends in. If it looks off or isn’t quite flush with the rest of the surface, let it skin over for a day and hit it again with another skim coat.

That’s it. Nothing fancy.

If the Caulk’s Still Wet:

Pop the blister with your knife or a pin, just enough to release the pressure.
Push it down so it settles back in.
Add a little more caulk over top and tool it smooth.

Easy fix. Looks clean, works like it should.

The Pep Talk

Blisters happen. No big deal. Now you know how to fix them without fuss. If you want more solid tips or straightforward info for the jobsite, check out the Place for Pros on our website. It’s definitely worth a look and packed full of practical stuff that’s actually useful out there.

_{About Sashco Log Home Products}

Maximizing profit margins through smart building material choices. Why cutting corners on materials isn’t worth it and how investing in quality materials pays off every time.

Any contractor worth their salt knows this business is a constant balancing act. You are always up against tight budgets, the pressure of clients who demand solid work without breaking the bank, and deadlines that never quit.

It’s tempting to pinch pennies on building materials to keep costs down. Anyone who has been in the business for a long time, though, knows that cheap materials often end up costing more in the long run.

When you really understand the secret to successful business and start to wrap your head around the fact that real value comes from looking past the sticker price and choosing materials built to last, you know you’re beginning to think more like a savvy business guy and less like a fly-by-night contractor. Understanding that investing in premium building materials upfront cuts down on callbacks, saves time, and keeps your projects running smoothly from start to finish is smart and it’s solid business practice.

Here’s why spending a little more on quality building materials puts money back in your pocket and keeps your business running like a well-oiled machine.

Fewer Callbacks Means Saved Time and Cash

Cheap materials might seem like a win upfront, but they rarely stand up over time. If you love fixing leaks, peeling stains, or worse, rotting wood (and taking a lot of Advil), then yes, go on the cheap.

For the rest who understand this business, you know callbacks aren’t just a hit to your wallet, they mess up your schedule and your reputation too. The best contractors understand that using premium, trusted materials means fewer surprises and a job done right the first time.

Faster Application Means More Jobs Done

Quality building materials apply smoothly and are more predictable, letting your crew finish jobs without guesswork. The faster you wrap, the sooner you move to the next project, keeping clients happy and deadlines manageable (not to mention putting to death those dreaded “can you fix this real quick?” calls after hours. Yep, you’ll thank us later).

Less Warranty Drama

When materials perform as promised, you avoid costly warranty claims and the stress that comes with them. Reliable products mean fewer headaches, more peace of mind and fewer awkward “uh yeah, so about that job we did…” phone calls.

Work Your Supplier Network

Seasoned contractors know full retail isn’t the only option. They build relationships with suppliers and score volume discounts, seasonal deals, or bundle pricing that keeps quality high without slashing your margins.

The Cost of Cheap Material

Here’s the hard truth: the lowest-priced stuff often means extra labor, more prep, and sometimes redoing the whole job. Considering it costs at least $600 per day to have a crew of three guys go back to a job, it makes sense to avoid going back in the first place by using better products.

Cheap building materials often mean more costly repairs and work in the long run.

When you tally it up, spending a bit more on quality from the start almost always makes better financial sense. If you think premium building materials are expensive, try explaining to a client why their home looks 10-years old after one winter. It’s just not worth it!

Choosing the right materials isn’t just about performance. It’s about protecting your business. Sashco’s quality products like sealants, stains, and preservatives safeguard your reputation, streamline your workflow, and boost your profits. Cutting corners on building materials just means more headaches later, and no one’s got time for that.

You don’t get paid for fixing mistakes, so invest in materials that let you finish the job and move on. We’re here backing your trade with products that actually work, so you can get the job done right the first time, every time.

Discover how prioritizing people drives Sashco’s commitment to crafting durable, high-quality sealants and stains, backed by genuine support you can trust.

At Sashco, we often talk about “Zero Failures” and “doing it right the first time,” but behind all of that is something even more important. Behind the talk, we genuinely care. And not in a half-hearted, “have a nice day” kind of way. We mean the sleeves-rolled-up, boots-on-the-ground sort of care.

We care about the homes and buildings you work on. We care about the customers you serve. And yes, we care about the work you do every single day to get the job done well.

So what does that look like?

It means taking the time to develop products that not only work in a lab but also work effectively in the real world. In the heat, the cold, the rain, and on the job sites where timelines are tight and quality still matters. It means answering the phone when you call and troubleshooting alongside you when things don’t go as planned. It means giving you and each other honest answers, even if they’re not always the easy ones.

We’re a company full of real people who get excited about log homes, caulking, stain, and sealants (we know, it’s a little nerdy, but we’re into it. Always have been, and always will be.). What we’re really into, though, is supporting the trades. We know how hard you work. We see the pride you take in doing things right. And we’re right there with you.

Caring isn’t just a value we stick on a wall—it’s what guides our decisions, shapes our culture, and defines the way we do business. It’s why we invest in training, why we’re constantly testing and improving, and why we’d rather take an extra step than cut a corner.

Because at the end of the day, if you’re going to stand behind your work (and our brand), we want to be the ones that are standing right there with you.

_{About Sashco
Sashco products are engineered to perform and backed by a team that genuinely cares about every job, every customer, every time. Since 1936, our family-run company has been rooted in the belief that chemistry is just part of the story. The real magic happens when timeless values, deep industry expertise, and a people-first mindset come together. Whether it’s restoring a beloved cabin or sealing conventional homes, we’re committed to creating products that work and supporting the professionals who use them. At Sashco, great products are only part of the story. It’s the people behind every project who drive everything we do.}

Are you leaving money—and reputation—on the table? If you’re applying stain and calling it good, you might be!

The best log finishing contractors build long-term relationships, not just one-time jobs. And that starts with helping your customers stay ahead of log home maintenance before their place looks like it’s been through the wringer. Here’s how to build a no-BS log home maintenance reminder system that keeps your calendar full, your customers happy, and their homes protected.

Set expectations from day one.

Don’t let the homeowner think “stain = done for life.” Tell them the truth. Log homes are high-maintenance, beautiful beasts. Let them know that even with top-tier Sashco stains and sealants (like Capture + Cascade or Transformation), regular inspections are key, and recoats aren’t optional if they want to avoid big repairs. Tell them upfront what to expect. It’s also a great idea to leave them with a care guide that contains all the necessary information, like:

What log stain system did you apply?
When they should plan for a check-up (typically 2-3 years, sometimes sooner if their place takes a beating from the sun).
What signs mean it’s time for log home maintenance and when it’s time to call you.

If you’ve done a good job and they have your info handy, they’ll call you instead of going to someone else when it’s time for maintenance.

Keep solid records.

When setting up your log maintenance reminder system, every house you touch should be added to your files (seriously). Minimum details should include:

Customer contact info
Product system used
Date of application
Notes about exposure (for example, south wall full sun, north wall shaded)

Set reminders for yourself. Two years. Three years. Five years. Figure out what works for the stain system and the exposure, then come up with a plan to follow up and snag that repeat business everyone wants!

Grow Your Business with a Proven Maintenance Reminder System

Reach out before things go bad.

Nobody wants to hear from you when their stain is peeling off, and they’re facing a $10k+ re-do. Be the guy who reaches out when all it takes is a maintenance coat. Little things go a long way, a simple call or text saying, “Hey, it’s [your name]. I hope you’re doing well! It’s been three years. How’s that south wall looking? Need me to take a look?” Or, offer a low-cost inspection and wash. That small job today could save your customer a big expense later, and it keeps your name at the top of their list.

Use whatever system works—but use something.

You don’t need fancy software. Use Google Calendar. A spreadsheet. A paper planner. The point is, don’t rely on memory. Set your maintenance reminders so you follow up on time, every time.

Be the guy who protects their investment.

When you check in, focus on helping them avoid costly problems rather than selling them something they don’t need. Talk to them in a way that makes sense to them. Let them know that getting a log home maintenance coat now is way cheaper than having to do a full re-stain down the line. Plus, it’s a heck of a lot easier to stay on top of things than to play catch-up later! That’s the kind of contractor they’ll trust, and that’s how you build repeat business.

Let’s be real. Sashco stains and finishes are top-of-the-line, but nothing lasts forever on a log home without maintenance. Be the contractor who helps customers stay ahead of the game. You’ll keep them happy, and you’ll build steady work that fills your schedule so you can chase cold beer, not cold leads.

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Meet the Craftsmen Behind Rocky Ridge: Passion, Precision, and Pride in Every Log Home Project

When it comes to restoring log homes, few things are as rewarding as seeing history preserved and beauty brought back to life. That’s exactly what Rocky Ridge Log Restoration is all about. Founded in June 2024, this emerging company has already made a significant impact with its commitment to craftsmanship and quality. We caught up with the team behind Rocky Ridge to learn more about how they got started, what drives their passion, and the tips they have for others in the trade. Here’s what they had to say.

Q: What’s your company’s specialty, and how long have you been in the business?

A: “Rocky Ridge Log Restoration started in June 2024. The venture began with a thought, and then I discovered the Zero Failures course at Sashco’s headquarters. I met a lot of amazing people, and the thought became a reality. At Rocky Ridge, we specialize in all aspects of log homes, but we mainly focus on rot repair, blasting, staining, and some chinking.”

Q: What’s one project you’re especially proud of?

A: “I am proud of all my projects! I take a lot of pride in my work. One of my jobs I take real pride in is the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge job, as it is a massive resort that brings in people from all over the world. I just find it so cool that I was able to work on those 100-year-old buildings (I would’ve never thought that a year ago when I first started this venture).”

Q: What’s your favorite Sashco (or product-specific) tool or material, and why?

A: “I am a big fan of the Sashco Capture/Cascade combination. They have created a variety of nice colors, and by layering them, you can discover even more beautiful combinations. The clear coat is honestly my favorite as it really finishes the whole restoration as the homes really shine and look brand new again!”

Q: Any tips or advice you’d share with other contractors?

A: “A lot of these contractors have a lot more experience than I do, and I have learned a lot from them! One tip I would say, as I have been an employee for longer than I have been an employer, is to treat your employees great and they will put in great effort.”

Q: What do you enjoy most about the work you do?

A: “I really enjoy the transformation part of the house. Taking something that is worn out and needs attention, then transforming it into something beautiful, and ultimately having clients fall in love with their home again. That’s the best part of the job for me, and I get to see some pretty cool country and animals (bears)!”

Follow Rocky Ridge Log Restoration on social media!