Most of the time, vertical logs rot out at the bottom of the timber where the log transitions into the foundation, or in this case, a lack of foundation! We’ve fixed this problem numerous times and have several solutions.
Over the years, we’ve fixed this problem in a number of ways, depending on the log home and the available budget for repairs.
One technique we developed for fixing rot on such logs involves cutting off the bottoms of the logs and installing a log or cedar “lumber sill”.
This does two things:
Not only does it solve the problem, but it also looks beautiful, as you can see in the pictures below.
Using vertical logs in log home construction looks great, but it also comes with maintenance considerations—especially regarding moisture.
The logs closest to the ground are the most vulnerable because water naturally splashes upward from rain hitting soil, stone, or surrounding hard surfaces. When this repeated splashback strikes the lower vertical logs, it keeps them damp far longer than the upper sections. Over time, that constant moisture exposure creates ideal conditions for rot, compromising both the appearance and the structural integrity of the wall.
Protecting the bottom of your vertical logs and posts, such as deck posts, is essential for long‑term durability. Proper drainage, adequate overhangs, and strategic landscaping can dramatically reduce the amount of water that rebounds onto the wood.
By minimizing splashback and ensuring the logs can dry quickly, you extend the lifespan of the structure and preserve the natural beauty that vertical log designs are known for. Investing in these preventative measures today helps avoid costly repairs and keeps your log walls strong for decades.
For details on the project in the photos above, click here to see how we replaced vertical logs in Balsam Lake, Wisconsin.
