Replacing Logs In An Old Log Cabin

by Leslie Wurdack

The best way to know if a log has to go is to tap it on a hammer to see if it still feels solid. Termites (those annoying pests) eat from the inside out so sometimes you don’t know what you have until you wack it with a hammer.

The bottom four logs on the right side of the doorway were replacements.

Replacing a log in a log cabin is difficult but can be done. You need to find a log about the same size. You probably won’t find one the same length but finding one the height and weight is important.

If the log too short you need to cut down halfway on the log and fit the two separate logs together to make them one.

What I just told you was supposed to surprise you. So act surprised. After you have the proper length you need to get the edge properly notched so it can go into it’s spot. Then you have to actually lift the house and slide the log in.

I want to introduce you to the man with all the muscles who didi the heavy lifting. Meet Sven. The best part about Sven is that he doesn’t speak English. He just stands there and looks gorgeous. With his shirt off.

I went down to my neighborhood hardware store and asked for replacement logs and can you believe it, they didn’t have any. Termites had munched so much that they had to be replaced. It is not always the most mangled logs that are the ones that need to be replaced.

About the Author

I purchased an old(1816) log cabin farmhouse in the Missouri countryside. I am passing along some of what I have learned about renovation and the area.