Sarah Shaffer, Author at Sashco

Running a log home restoration company isn’t for the faint of heart. Log Masters Restorations has spent over a decade in the trenches, turning hard-earned experience into a system that actually works. Read on to see how their team’s lessons can help other businesses work smarter, not harder.

Why Log Home Restoration Businesses Need Specialized SOPs

Nick Smith, Dawn Smith, and Scott Futrell, have been in the log game since 2011, officially starting Log Masters Restorations in 2016. From the start, they realized that general construction knowledge wasn’t enough. Log homes are a different animal. They come with unique maintenance and restoration needs that require specialized knowledge.

“You actually need to know a little bit more about the nuances of log home restoration and maintenance repair, because they’re completely different than a conventional home,” Dawn explains.To build that knowledge, they dove into training, attending Sashco’s Zero Failures courses, both the Wood Science and the Business Focus. For Dawn, a self-proclaimed science nerd, the deep dive into how stains interact with wood was a blast. But beyond chemistry, the course offered practical, real-world advice for running a log home restoration business without losing your hair.

The Big Takeaway? Create Standard Operating Procedures

After leaving Zero Failures, one of the most obvious lessons Dawn and her team took away was the importance of having a standard. They got a vision and were determined to create what became their SOP (Standard Operating Procedures). With branches in Texas, Missouri, and Colorado, and crews traveling across regions, a clear standard wasn’t just a nice, “we’ll get around to it sometime,” kind of thing. It was absolutely necessary.

“If you don’t set up some kind of standard, you’ll have chaos. One guy does it one way, another guy another way, and suddenly you’ve got arguments on-site. The SOP keeps everyone on the same page,” Dawn says.

Starting small, they began drafting a simple SOP in 2021. Over time, it evolved into a comprehensive guide built from 15 years of experience, legal counsel advice, and industry insights. The SOP now helps onboard new crew members, standardize paperwork, and maintain high-quality work.

How Log Masters Documented Field Knowledge into Procedures

Building an SOP isn’t just about writing things down, it’s about capturing real-world knowledge and keeping it practical. We asked Dawn to share how they documented new insights from the field. Here are her tips (Aka, gold! Don’t sleep on this. These are tips that work!)”

1. How did you document new things from the field?

“In the beginning, our documentation system was very simple: Gmail, the HubSpot mobile app, QuickBooks Online, and one shared OneDrive account. Technicians would send photos and notes from their jobs each evening, and I would organize everything into reference material,” Dawn explained.

Over time, this evolved into educational blogs for their website and eventually expanded into a full documentation process using Gmail, QBO, HubSpot, and SharePoint for management, while technicians continue to use Gmail and Google Docs for quick updates.Dawn also spent time researching outside the company, reading Sashco’s blogs, industry articles, and monitoring Facebook log-home restoration groups daily. Initially for marketing, it became an incredibly helpful way to observe how others answered technical questions. Later, she worked in the field for a winter season to better understand challenges firsthand, documenting the nuances that formal training often misses.

2. Who was in charge of putting the SOP together?

Dawn led the creation of the SOP, but it could not have been built without Scott and Nick. They contributed years of field experience, solutions to unforeseen issues, and deep contract knowledge collected over the last 10–13 years. Their experience forms the backbone of much of the technical accuracy. Feedback from technicians and field staff also shaped the SOP. As the company grew, Dawn developed SOPs for new management positions as well. The SOP system is truly the combined result of the company’s lived experiences, lessons, and continuous learning.

3. How many reviews did it undergo?

The SOP system has just recently been completed, and 2025 marks their first formal company-wide review cycle. The week before Christmas, all LMR staff will review the Technician SOP together to finalize revisions before 2026.

4. Who’s responsible for reviewing and updating them regularly?

Dawn currently oversees all SOPs and will continue maintaining them with input from the management team. Each manager and staff member is responsible for reviewing their own SOP and suggesting edits. The company values employees’ insights, and their experience guides revisions over time.

As Log Masters Restorations grows, staff see how their contributions also advance their own careers and help shape a workplace that values feedback, perspective, and boundaries. The 2026 KPI process will measure how effectively the SOPs work, whether they’re actively used, and where improvements are needed as products and techniques evolve. SOPs are only effective if they’re used, and KPIs provide real data, not assumptions.

The long-term goal is to stabilize the structure, strengthen what already works well, and ensure no one gets complacent as the company grows. Over time, this system will be passed on to the next generation of leadership.

Practical Advice for Contractors

Log Masters Restorations is generous with their tips for anyone building their own SOP or looking to improve operations:

Start with the basics – Focus on the core tasks for each log home project before expanding to more complex scenarios.
Document scenarios and solutions – Keep track of challenges you encounter and how you solve them. This becomes the foundation of your SOP.
Engage your team – Field staff may have practical insights that don’t show up on paper. Their feedback ensures that procedures are realistic and effective.
Be proactive, not reactive – An SOP isn’t just a guide; it’s a tool to anticipate issues and prevent costly mistakes (ahem, like broken specialty windows, more about that to come).

Patience is key – Mistakes will happen. Even after 15 years, new situations arise. Take time to adjust and refine your approach.

Case in point: a $10,000 specialty window destroyed during media blasting. Ouch. Expensive? Yes. Avoidable? Absolutely, thanks to covering windows with Ram Board going forward (now a standard part of their SOP). “Mistakes are opportunities to improve,” Dawn notes (and occasionally, to start questioning every life choice you’ve made before 10 a.m.).

The benefits of the SOP are tangible. Better structural organization, consistent recordkeeping, fewer callbacks, and smoother client communications (Who would take a hard pass on that? Nobody? We thought so.). The proactive approach ensures the team is prepared, and clients are satisfied. They even credit it for helping maintain the company’s five-star reputation.

Their Advice to Others

For Log Masters, the key to long-term success is simple: start small, document everything, engage your team, and be patient. Training, like the Zero Failures course, and collaboration with industry peers help build knowledge, while the SOP keeps it practical and actionable.

“Be patient with yourself. There’s always a new scenario, even after 15 years. Engage others in the industry, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Start small, keep records, and let your mistakes teach you. That’s how you build something that works,” she says.

Building a successful log home restoration business isn’t just about skill. It’s about strategy, patience, and learning from every single project. Log Masters Restorations proves that taking the time to document, standardize, and actually involve your team isn’t overhead. It’s not busy work, and it’s definitely not a waste of time. It’s an investment that actually pays off. For contractors looking to level up, their story is a solid reminder that the right system doesn’t just keep chaos and wasted dollars at bay, it builds a smoother, smarter, and more profitable operation that can handle whatever a job throws your way.

Learn more about Log Masters Restorations at logmastersrestorations.com

*_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.}

When most contractors turned down the job, Alex Bowman said yes.

The project? A massive, weathered Swedish-style log cabin restoration perched 10,000 feet up in the rugged canyons above Oakley, Utah. We’re talking remote! Miles of dirt roads from civilization and way beyond cell service.

For most contractors, it was too far removed, too risky, too rough. But for Alex, founder of Elk Country Paints, it was precisely the kind of challenge that fuels him.

“I live in the forest most of the time,” Alex said. “That’s where I belong. I built a service that helps people who can’t find anyone willing to go out and do the job.”

From a “Simple Roof” to a One-Man Mountain

The project started with what seemed like a straightforward task. It didn’t take long for Alex to realize that there was nothing straightforward about it. The homeowners wanted him to repaint a steep, intimidating metal roof (like, legit scary).

It was a tough ask to begin with, but within days, the crew bailed, leaving Alex to finish the job solo. For everyone else, it was too much. For him? Just another challenge to conquer.

The project tested him to his limits, both physically and mentally. Long days on the roof turned into sleepless nights, fighting pain and exhaustion. But he didn’t quit.

“It was probably the most difficult thing I’ve ever gone through in business and life,” Alex said. “But I never gave up. I feel like I earned that home.”

That perseverance didn’t go unnoticed. Impressed by his commitment, the homeowner asked Alex to take on the entire log restoration itself (initially just a “clear coat,” but as every pro knows, it’s never just a clear coat).

The Reality of Remote Log Home Restoration

By the time Alex returned the following year to tackle the home’s complete log restoration, he once again found himself without a crew. “The work is grueling”, he explains. It’s long hours, heavy labor, camping out when hotels are too far away, and the mental grind that breaks many before the job is done. But for Alex, that hardship is part of what makes the work meaningful.

“People call me crazy, but I talk to homes. They tell me what they need. I build a personal relationship with the home,” he said. “When I came back to that cabin, it felt like it had accepted me.”

Weathered Wood to Cascade Finish

Alex began by washing the logs with CPR Cleaner & Brightener, cutting through years of dust and mountain exposure. Sun-beaten walls received extra attention, and from there he went to work with his preferred method, sanding with a pneumatic orbital sander using 40–60 grit, a process he swears by for achieving smooth, even results (mad respect from us for that!). “I know there are faster ways, but nothing does the job like a pneumatic orbital sander,” he said.

Elk County Paints Remote Log Cabin Restoration in Utah

While washing, hidden log rot revealed itself (we’re looking at you, rail posts). Those areas were rebuilt using putties, which Alex calls one of his favorite parts of the job. “It’s like a work of art trying to match what’s there,” he said. “When I’m done, I can’t believe how much it matches the contour of the original log.”

Finally, the home was finished with Cascade Clear Coat, applied in two coats on areas that needed extra protection from the intense mountain sun. “Some of those walls were so sunburned they were just drinking it up by the gallon,” Alex explained.

Looking Ahead: A Long-Term Log Home Maintenance Plan

Alex and Elk Country Paints continue to work with the homeowner on a long-term maintenance plan, because no one wants to go through another complete restoration when simple upkeep can preserve a log home’s beauty and protection for years. “We’d never want to see someone have to restore when it’s so easy to maintain your project,” Alex said.

The Alpine House stands today as one of his proudest accomplishments, not just for its stunning view of the Uinta Mountains, but for what it represents: perseverance, craftsmanship, and heart.

A Passion for the Craft

Alex credits much of his continued passion and growth to his connection with Sashco at Zero Failures to the hands-on education he’s gained through our team (we’re not blushing; you’re blushing).

“When I use your products, I can hear Jim from Sashco talking in my head,” he said with a laugh. “It just lights a fire in me ten times more. You can’t fake that kind of passion.”

In the end, for Elk Country Paints, the Alpine House story isn’t just about logs, stains, and perseverance, it’s about heart and one determined craftsman who refuses to quit. Add to it a homeowner who believed in him, a log home that found new life high in the mountains where few dare to go and you have the makings of an epic success story.

For log homeowners, it’s a reminder of what’s possible when you care for your investment with the right products and people. For fellow pros, it’s proof that true craftsmanship still thrives one crazy-tough project at a time.

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*_About_{Sashco Log Home Products}***

Why Your Log Home Isn’t a Canvas

Ok, log home lovers, time to be real. Owning a log home is a dream. Come on, the character, the warmth, the charm, there’s nothing like it. But let’s be honest, maintenance can feel like a full-time job. And at some point, most of us have thought, “Maybe I should just paint it and be done with all this upkeep.” (Ahem. Every professional log applicator likely experienced an eye twitch after reading that.)

(more…)

What do ladders, sandpaper, and love have in common? For Joseph Smidt and his family, they were the unlikely trio behind a complete log home restoration and transformation. Read the full “Restoration Possible” story and hear every step, challenge, and triumph along the way.

(more…)

Sashco Innovation in the Making

The Problem

Every great story starts by setting a scene, right? Who are we to break tradition?

Picture this: you’re on a job site, the logs are thirstier than expected, the color isn’t quite right because the homeowner suddenly got tone anxiety, and the nearest dealer is two hours away. Nightmare, right? That exact scenario sparked the idea for Flex Tint stain system.

The Process

Back in 2010, it all began as a humble experiment to give pros the flexibility to mix stains on the job (classic beginnings for any great success story). We asked ourselves, “What if we could put pigment in a can?” Simple idea. Complicated execution. Contractors were spending more time scraping and stirring than actually staining, always chasing the perfect mix and color. So, the idea was shelved, for a while.

Then, at one fateful Zero Failures, we were talking shop with contractors telling us their real-world headaches. The best ideas often emerge from the most challenging problems.

Stories poured out. Different voices, same scenario. They were running out of stain mid-job, unpredictable wood, even more unpredictable homeowners suddenly falling in love with, or freaking out about, a color (hint: it’s usually the wife). Listening to these experiences was eye-opening.

Mark Nelson, now a Zero Failures instructor, shared a story that became a hallmark moment. Mid-job in Wyoming, he realized he was two gallons short. Without a fix, his crew would have been idle for about three days, costing the company about $10,000 in labor and lodging. Luckily, Sashco overnighted the extra stain and saved the day. But that moment planted a question in our minds. What if contractors could handle surprises like this themselves, with no stress and no extra costs?

The answer? Cartridges. We make caulk. We know cartridges! That conversation brought Flex Tint back into focus, now with a real purpose to solve these recurring problems right on-site.

The Solution

And just like that (cue the triumphant music) Flex Tint stain system was born. If only it were that simple. Flex Tint didn’t come without labor pains, but we knew pigment cartridges would give contractors unprecedented control. Need a touch darker here, a little lighter there? No problem. Running low? Ship a small cartridge instead of a giant pail. It’s like having a mini paint store on your trailer.

Every detail, from cartridge sizes to color options to neutral base quantities, is designed to make life easier for contractors (and happier homeowners). Practical. Reliable. And yes, even a little fun to use.

Flex Tint Stain System Saves Your Sanity and Your Bacon!

One of our favorite success stories came from the crew at Knaughty Log Restoration. They were restoring a massive log home when the homeowner suddenly changed their mind about color mid-job.

“We were sweating bullets,” the foreman said. “If we’d already mixed 100 gallons of the wrong color, we’d have been out about seven grand. Flex Tint literally saved our bacon. We adjusted the color right there on-site, no wasted stain, no delays, no downtime. That kind of flexibility makes all the difference.”

Stories like that are what make innovation worth it. The real-world wins that keep jobs on schedule and crews working smarter, not harder.

The Happy Ending

So, there you have it, the tale of Flex Tint. Thanks to open-ears, open-minds, innovation, and a whole lot of keepin’ on keepin’ on, there’s now a solution to the moments that used to slow applicators down, stress you out, or make you wish you had a magic wand on-site (or perhaps disappearing powers). Now, you can handle surprises, fine-tune colors, and keep the job moving without breaking a sweat. Contractors provide better service, homeowners get just the color they imagined, and everyone walks away happier. Who knows? Maybe one day we’ll whip up the sequel about that hilarious time the wife had a change of heart right in the middle of the stain! But that’s a tale for another day. Stay tuned.

See What Flex Tint Could Save You

You’ve heard the stories, now see the numbers. Use our Flex Tint ROI Calculator to find out just how much time and money you could save on your next project.

Answer a few quick questions about your crew, hourly rate, and the hiccups that happen on real jobs (like color changes, late stain deliveries, or waiting on product) and see how Flex Tint might just save your bacon, too!

*_About_{Sashco Log Home Products}***

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}***

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.}