Log homes or cabins are often built to include stone chimneys. Since the beginning of time, humans have been building with stone and wood in some form or another. Both have great structural qualities and stand up to the test of time.
The problem comes in when moisture and condensation from the stone meet the wood. I have seen hundreds of beautiful log homes and cabins with fireplaces, stone foundations, and stone pillars built next to the logs. While some last for hundreds of years, others do not.
Here’s why some log homes with stone chimneys are fine, and others are not.
Stone that is not sealed properly can hold moisture for months and even years. This moisture “sweats” out next to wood beams or logs.
The most common places where it can cause logs to rot are along chimneys and foundations. Quite often, the logs will be set in concrete, creating a pocket that holds water like a cork holds wine in a bottle. Unlike a cork, the log contains oxygen and water, which, when combined, can cause mold and rot in a short time.
There is a solution to this problem, but first, a person needs to identify any potential problem locations on a particular log building. A trained professional can examine a stone foundation or a chimney and identify problem areas. If logs are embedded in the mortar around the stone, it could result in rotten logs.
Log ends are often set into concrete near footings and where an exterior chimney bisects a wall. At Edmunds & Company, we have trained people who can use a jackhammer or an air chisel to remove mortar and uncover any existing problems. We use Perma-Chink brand chinking to seal these intersections, ensuring no water can be trapped against the logs and cause rot.
If you have concerns about the logs around your chimney or foundation, give us a call at 715-373-5744. We can help.
