Chinking

This time-honored art is a very important step in protecting a log home. Modern chinking is a flexible, textured material that seals gaps between logs to eliminate heat loss and air infiltration.

While chinking can look similar to traditional mortar, it is actually quite different. In most cases it is a pure acrylic that adheres to wood and stretches with heating and cooling cycles to maintain a tight seal despite the logs’ movement.

Chinking should always be applied on both the interior and exterior of the home. Like caulking, it is imperative that chink is applied properly with foam backer to create two-point adhesion which prevents future tearing.

We typically apply it on the horizontal lines between logs and timber, wrapping vertical corners, and for additional protection around windows and doors.

Chinking comes in a variety of colors and textures to match your finish and desired aesthetic. Some homeowners like the contrasting lines, while some prefer that they blend into the same color of their logs. In many cases this preference means the difference between putting chink on before, or after, you stain. We also offer textures ranging from a brushed smooth finish to a troweled rustic style with sand blown in.

BTi primarily uses Log Jam®, a high-quality chinking product manufactured by Sashco.