About Chinking & Caulking
Proper chinking and caulking seals your log home against air, moisture, and insects. We use proven materials and techniques for joints that flex and last.
What Is Chinking?
Chinking is the flexible sealant applied between log courses. It fills the gaps between logs, prevents air and water infiltration, and keeps insects out. Modern synthetic chinking is designed to flex with the natural movement of logs as they expand and contract with temperature and moisture changes. It's a critical part of any log home's weather envelope.
When Chinking Fails
Chinking doesn't last forever. Over time, UV exposure breaks it down. Logs settle and shift, pulling joints apart. Poor original application — wrong backer rod, insufficient adhesion, wrong product — leads to early failure. When chinking fails, you get drafts, moisture intrusion, higher energy bills, and eventually rot and insect problems in the gaps.
Our Chinking & Caulking Process
We remove failed chinking, clean the joint surfaces, install proper backer rod for a correct bond profile, and apply high-quality synthetic chinking. For log-to-log joints and window/door trim, we use compatible caulking products. Everything is tooled for a clean, professional finish. We use products from Sashco and Perma-Chink that are specifically engineered for log homes.
Caulking vs. Chinking
Caulking is used for smaller joints — around windows, doors, trim, and tight log-to-log connections. Chinking covers the wider gaps between log courses. Both serve the same purpose: keeping air and water out. We handle both as part of any restoration or as standalone service.
Chinking & Caulking Gallery
Recent chinking & caulking projects in Oregon.
Chinking & Caulking — Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does chinking last?
- Quality synthetic chinking, properly applied, can last 20+ years. But UV exposure on south-facing walls can shorten that. Regular inspections help catch problems early.
- Can you re-chink over existing chinking?
- Sometimes, if the existing chinking is still well-adhered and just needs a refresh. But if it's failing — pulling away, cracking, or letting air through — it needs to be removed and replaced properly.
- Do you color-match chinking?
- Yes. Chinking comes in a range of colors and can be tinted to match or contrast with your logs and stain. We help you choose a look that works with your home's style.