How To Chink A Log Cabin or Log Home
- Chinking Tools or Chinking Caulking Tools
- Backer Rod. A backer rod fills joints and cracks in between chinking logs. ...
- Chinking Gun. Manual, Electric, and Air bulk loading guns all do a great job applying chinking material. ...
- Spatula or Scraping Tool. ...
- Trowel. ...
- Wire Mesh. ...
- Foam Brush. ...
- Grout Bag. ...
- Isopropyl Alcohol. ...
...
Homemade (mortar) chinking recipes.
| Cement and Sand | 1 Part Pre-Dyed Cement 1 Part Fine Sand |
|---|---|
| Clay, Sand, and LIme | 1 Part Clay 1 Part Coarse Sand 1 Part Lime |
What do you need to Chink a log cabin?
These are the materials that you will need to chink your log cabin: The method that we are using allows you purchase your chinking in 5 gallon buckets (cheaper than buying it in tubes) and the bulk loading gun comes with a variety of nozzle sizes which make chinking much easier. How to prepare your cabin for chinking.
What is the best way to chink logs?
When chinking, water is your best friend. You will want to use water and a spatula or foam brush to go over your work. As you apply your chinking you will want to go over it in order to clean up your mistakes and smooth your chinking out to ensure that it is adhering to the logs. A tip is to have two buckets of water.
What is log cabin chinking made of?
What is chinking made of? Chinking can be created by mixing a combination of sand, clay, salt, wood ash, straw, lime, water and many other materials. You can purchase pre-mixed, synthetic chinking materials or make your own from available resources around your property. How To Chink A Log Cabin – Chinking Tools or Caulking Tools
What is chinking for log homes?
Chinking is either a synthetic or mortar substance that seals the gap in joints between logs on a log cabin. It is a flexible sealant that is crucial for any log home.
What type of chinking do you use for a log cabin?
What is chinking in log cabins?
What Material is Chinking Made From?
Why do cabins chime in summary?
What is chinking made of?
How wide is a chinking log?
What is a backer rod?
See 2 more
How do you make a chinking for a log home?
0:5610:37How To Chink a Log Cabin - Handmade House TV #29 - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI just mix it up in a wheel barrel. I use a nice grain free masonry sand as smooth and as fine as IMoreI just mix it up in a wheel barrel. I use a nice grain free masonry sand as smooth and as fine as I possibly can and then I mix in some cement I prefer to use a guide cement. I don't like the color of
What material is used for chinking log cabins?
acrylic elastic compoundChinking today is made of an acrylic elastic compound with special components that allow it to adhere to the logs and flex with the log movement. This new synthetic chinking is often called Elastomeric chinking and does not chip like cement mortar.
What was original chinking made of?
Traditional chinking was made of clay, mud, sand, and other common resources, with an inner layer sealed by a mortar-based "daubing" on the outside. A finish layer preserved it and kept it adhered to the home.
What can be used instead of chinking?
Log Jam and Chinker's Edge are both excellent chinking products. “Caulking” is a similar material to “chinking”, but usually has no texture or a very light texture. Caulking also generally has more elasticity than chinking products.
What should I use to fill cracks in log cabin?
Apply a good quality, siliconized latex caulk (not pure silicon) into the check, bringing it out close, but not even with the surface of the log. Skim off the excess caulking with your finger or a putty knife, making sure the caulking makes a strong, consistent contact with the top and bottom of the crack.
What did pioneers use to seal wood?
Centuries ago, European farmers would seal the wood on their barns with an oil, often linseed oil -- a tawny-colored oil derived from the seed of the flax plant.
What is chinking made of in the 1800s?
One part muddy clay, one part goat hair, one part spit = chinking.
How many rooms did an 1860's log cabin have?
The cabin would have one room and usually 12 to 16 feet square space. It had one door and usually no windows. The spaces between the logs would be filled with chinking materials such as, small stones, wood, corn cobs, clay, or cloth. The first log cabins were inspired by the simple Scotch-Irish style of cabins.
How did pioneers make log cabins?
Early settlers probably made their first log cabins by simply stacking tree trunks one on top of another and overlapping the trunks at the corners. Over time, their building processes got more sophisticated. For example, they eventually created interlocking corners by cutting notches in the ends of the logs.
Can you use caulk instead of chinking?
The main difference between chinking and caulking is texture and elasticity. Caulking is more elastic than chinking and has no texture or very light texture; while chinking comes in various colors or textures. Due to higher elasticity caulking is a great option for using it in smaller joints (i.e. ¼” to 2” wide).
How do I fill gaps between logs?
Typically, if the span or depth between the logs is less than 1 inch then caulking should be used. Caulking can also be used to fill checks (i.e. horizontal cracks) in logs too. If the span or depth between the logs is greater than 1 inch then it's time to use chinking.
Can I use concrete as chinking?
Any concrete that might be used as new chinking should contain a specialized water-proofer to prevent unprotected logs from developing rot and mildew. If inadequate chinking products allow logs to hold moisture for too long, that moisture can make its way to the interior walls—not a good thing!
What is the difference between chinking and caulking?
The main difference between chinking and caulking is texture and elasticity. Caulking is more elastic than chinking and has no texture or very light texture; while chinking comes in various colors or textures. Due to higher elasticity caulking is a great option for using it in smaller joints (i.e. ¼” to 2” wide).
What is the best finish for log homes?
Penetrating finishes are ideal for use as a log sealer as they are easy to apply, easy to maintain, and won't peel. Semi-transparent log home stains are by far the most popular finishes for the log home market.
What Material Is Chinking Made from?
Today, log home chinking refers to a flexible elastic sealant that resembles the appearance of the old portland cement which historically was used...
So, Mortar Chinking Or Synthetic Chinking?
It depends.If you are building from a log cabin kit home you probably will use synthetic chinking as the logs will need to settle in their new clim...
What’S The Difference Between Caulking and Chinking?
You might have heard of the phrases caulking and chinking being used interchangeably, however there is a difference.The main difference between cau...
How Much Does Log Cabin Chinking Cost?
The cost of chinking can depend upon many factors. 1. Size of Chink Lines (1 inch to 5 inches) 2. Square Footage of Cabin 3. Height of the gable wa...
How to Chink Your Log Cabin
Chinking a log cabin.It appears to be a very easy task.And it can be.But, it can also be tedious, awkward, time-consuming and requires lots of pati...
Log Cabin Chinking Repair and Maintenance
Chinking should last for between 20-30 years, providing it has been applied using a correct technique with backing rods.The only way this can accel...
How to Make Your Own Chinking – Log Cabin Chinking Recipes
There are numerous synthetic chinking brands where you can purchase chinking by the gallon.Creating your own chinking can complete a self-build pro...
How much does it cost to chink a log cabin?
The cost of chinking a log cabin yourself is between $3 and $6 per linear foot. This price can vary depending on many factors such as gap size, choice of material, height of gable wall to the ridge, and more.
How to apply chink to logs?
Make sure that you have read our measurement guide to make sure that you have the right nozzle size and thickness. Start by lubricating your tools with a silicone type spray.
How long does chinking last and how much does it cost?
Chinking on average lasts around 20 years if it was applied correctly using a backing rod. Chinking can last up to 40 years if maintained annually and not exposed to extreme weather conditions. The cost of chinking a log cabin yourself is between $3 and $6 per linear foot. This price can vary depending on many factors such as gap size, choice of material, height of gable wall to the ridge, and more. Chinking from start to finish on the average sized cabin cost between $3,000 and $7,000; this is normally a one time cost and yearly maintenance costs on average around $200.
What is a backer rod?
Backer rod is a synthetic foam which is placed in the cavity between logs. Backer rod makes sure that the chinking only adheres to the top and bottom of the log in order ensure movement. When the chinking adheres to only 2 surfaces (top and bottom) and not 3, it allows for much more movement and prevents checks.
Why do we chink logs?
Chinking can be used in place of caulk and is mostly used in the joints between logs. Chinking keeps moisture out by sealing the joints and protects log homes from moisture related damage. Chinking is important in keeping moisture, insects, wind, and other forces of nature from entering logs.
How to chink a gun?
Start by lubricating your tools with a silicone type spray. Then put nozzle end of the gun into the bucket of chinking and pull the activator rod. This will suck the chinking into your gun. When applying your chinking you will want to check with the manufacturer for the recommended thickness.
How long does it take for a log to dry before chinking?
Staining first adds an extra layer of protection to your logs from bugs and rot. It is important to let the stain dry for 2 to 7 days before chinking in order to ensure that the stain is completely dry. If you try to chink before the stain is completely dry then your chinking might not adhere.
What is chinking in log cabins?
Log Cabin Chi nking is a technique used to seal narrow openings between cabin logs and to fill cracks or crevices within logs. Chinking helps to keep natures elements outside, maintain a comfortable environment inside and reduce air and moisture intrusion. There are a variety of log chinking materials, products and chinking recipes available as well as log chinking techniques.
How much does it cost to chink a log cabin?
Depending on materials and labor, Chinking can cost upwards of $10,000 or more . You can DIY (Do It Yourself) and reduce costs by supplying the labor but you may need to purchase a few additional log cabin tools.
What is a backer rod?
Backer Rod. A backer rod is used to fill joints and cracks in between chinking logs. There are a variety of backer rods available although they tend to be flexible foam and they vary in diameter. Open Cell Backer Rods are generally for indoor use where there is low presence of moisture.
What is the best way to transfer chinking material?
Trowel. A trowel can help you transfer chinking material in between logs and joints. With a trowel you will want to ensure that the chinking is worked into the area properly to allow for maximum coverage, adhesion and a complete seal.
What is chinking made of?
What is chinking made of? Chinking can be created by mixing a combination of sand, clay, salt, wood ash, straw, lime, water and many other materials. You can purchase pre-mixed, synthetic chinking materials or make your own from available resources around your property.
How does shifting affect chinking?
Shifting and settling of the structure could impact the life of your chinking and introduce gaps and cracking. The makeup of the chinking material and light or heavy exposure to elements will also play a part in determining the life span of the chinking.
What tool to use for chinking?
Spatula or Scraping Tool . Look for a spatula tool with flexibility in the blade so you can apply pressure and bend the blade as you are manipulating and smoothing out the chinking. A spatula with a comfortable grip and a stainless steel blade to avoid rusting is best.
Shore Up the Surface
Logs should be clean, dry and free of debris. Power washing may be necessary for log homes that have been standing for
Back it Up
A backer rod is a foam strip, which rests between the gaps in the log courses so that the chinking has a surface to adhere to. The rod should fit snugly against the logs, about 1/4 to 3/8 inch behind the surface for square logs and far enough out to create a 1/4-inch bead on round logs (the actual depth depends on the diameter of the log itself).
The Right Equipment
This is critical to a good chinking job. A bulk loading gun allows an even bead to be applied to the surface. Then a bent trowel about the width of the chinking joint and a spray bottle filled with tap water are used to smooth the material without leaving marks. (If this is a DIY project, wear old clothes and shoes.
Proper Technique
Though a pro knows exactly what to do, it’s helpful if you, too, understand the process. It’s kind of like icing a cake: Hold the gun (or chinking bag if you’re not using a gun) firmly against the backer rod. Then apply the material so that it touches the backer and the surface edge of each log.
Stay Calm and Trowel On
It’s best to take it one row at a time by applying a line of chinking 4 to 5 feet long and then troweling it out. Along the way, it’s important to ensure that the material is attaching securely to the top and bottom of the logs.
Practice Makes Perfect
If you’re enlisting a pro to handle your home’s chinking, no training is needed! But if you’re tackling it yourself, it’s best to begin in a spot that’s out of site. The inside of a closet is a good place to start — and don’t be surprised if, after you get the hang of it, you decide to go back and redo the section you started with.
What knife do you use to mix logs?
We applied the mixture with a wide-bladed putty knife, since the spaces between our building's logs are quite large. Charlie Madson suggests a garden trowel. A small putty knife — or even a kitchen spatula — would work as well, though, depending on the size of the gaps.
How to make Grandpa Madson's recipe?
Here's the basic formula, as our visitor gave it to us: 2 parts clay (or dirt) 1 part sifted wood ashes. 1/2 part salt. Water to mix.
Can you use salt to chink a cast iron stove?
By the way, although Grandpa Madson's formula should always contain salt when it's being used for chinking, the recipe — sans salt — produces a "glue" that will cement any cracks you may have in your cast-iron stove. Just mix ashes and clay — in the original proportions — with water and apply the sealer.
What is chinking in log cabins?
Chinking is either a synthetic or mortar substance that seals the gap in joints between logs on a log cabin. It is a flexible sealant that is crucial for any log home. Chinking protects the cabin from gaps where cold air or outside elements to get in and ruin the structure of the wood. Chinking is a new concept for me.
Why do cabins need to be chinked?
Chinking a cabin allows the cabin room to breathe but also protecting your cabin from the outside elements.
What is Chinking?
Chinking is not only a funny word but also a good, elastic, stylish way of sealing a log cabin. It looks like the old-fashioned Portland cement-based mortar and it is used to seal the joints between logs. This stuff is most effective for sealing long (like really long) strips of gaps between logs. It looks like what they used to do years ago.
How long does chinking last?
As long as you do the things I have said, your chinking should last for about 20-30 years. Enough time for your kids to grow up and maybe their kids a little. The checking that is usually done is for older mortar chinking. Synthetic is not that old.
Why is chinking important?
This is one of the many reasons why chinking is so important. It creates a nice seal to cover up any gaps in the logs. This is the ultimate way to have a good seal and little to no maintenance. The last thing you want to be happening your cabin is rot. That is no fun.
How much is synthetic chinking?
Synthetic chinking is $1.20 per 1 inch high and 1 inch deep. Yeah, if I were to make a cabin, I would definitely make it myself. That money would add up fast. This is why I said mortar is a 10th of the synthetic price.
What are the two types of chinking?
There are two kinds of chinking: Synthetic and Mortar. Here is some more information regarding chinking and what either of these types do. This page also has content.
What type of chinking do you use for a log cabin?
From experience, log cabin kits use synthetic chinking and self-build cabin owners use mortar chinking. Whichever chinking you decide upon, it must have good elastic properties. Understanding that your cabin will settle and planning for it with flexible chinking is important.
What is chinking in log cabins?
Chinking is the material that fits between the imperfect joints of logs to ensure a “seal” from external elements (e.g. rain, snow and sleet) whilst eliminating heat loss and air infiltration.
What Material is Chinking Made From?
Today, log home chinking refers to a flexible elastic sealant that resembles the appearance of the old portland cement which historically was used to seal logs together.
Why do cabins chime in summary?
Chinking in summary should allow your cabin’s logs to breathe whilst also protecting your cabin from the external elements discussed earlier.
What is chinking made of?
cabins built from scratch). Synthetic chinking is made from either acrylic or petrochemical elastic compounds which have the ability to expand and contract with your logs.
How wide is a chinking log?
6” or more diameter) and is compatible with most notching techniques (e.g. traditional and dovetail). Chinking can fill a span from 1 to 5 inches in width.
What is a backer rod?
A backer-rod, or homemade substitute, provides a “bond breaker” which provides a surface the chinking won’t adhere to. A backer-rod allows the chinking to only adhere to 2 surfaces (i.e. the top and bottom log) providing more elasticity and movement in 2 dimensions as opposed to 3.
