Making the Right Choice – Log Home Restoration Contractor
December 15th, 2009 Posted in Home Improvement
Many home owners are confused by the conflicting information within the log home industry. We hope the following information will assist you in selecting a log home restoration company. Most home owners request 2-3 estimates to compare companies, service and price when choosing a contractor to restore their log home. Contractors may offer various products and solutions such as oil based or water based stains, corn cob blasting or power washing, full log or half log replacement and the list goes on.
The price may greatly vary but keep in mind you are not always comparing “apples to apples”. So, where do you begin? Start with the basics by verifying the company is insured and licensed. Also, check references for log homes they have restored in your area. Past clients can offer insight and confidence in your decision. Once this is complete, below are some ideas to consider when reviewing the details of your estimate.
Small Local Company Versus Large Company Based Outside of Your Area
Home owners sometimes mention they only feel comfortable hiring a small, local company; while others state they do not want a “mom & pop operation”. We are associated with both large and small companies and have found it is not the size of the company or how far they travel that determines the quality of work. Keep in mind, the larger restoration companies have several crews working in different locations because they have grown, most likely due to their quality of work and good reputation. We encourage you to entertain all your options and not let the size of the company weigh too heavily on your decision.
If asbestos is part of some material, as long as it stays in it, it is harmless. The more imminent danger comes from inhaling the tiny needle-like asbestos fibers, when they get airborne. The trouble with asbestos poisoning is that its primary symptoms such as dry cough, tightness in the chest or shortness of breath are the same as the symptoms of a lot of less serious diseases. Unfortunately, asbestos poisoning has also quite a long latency period. Therefore the true reason of the patient’s problems is often found out too late.
Asbestosis, mesothelioma or lung cancer – these are the most common diseases connected to asbestos poisoning. The lungs of an asbestosis patient are trying to get rid of the asbestos fibers and they produce an acid that harms the tissue which then hardens. Finally, breathing becomes very difficult for the patient. Mesothelioma is a sort of cancer that affects the outer lung lining. There is presently no known cure for this disease. A person can get mesothelioma from being exposed to asbestos poisoning for only a very brief period or even accidentally, which is a major difference from asbestosis. More than 50 percent of all deaths from asbestos poisoning was evoked by asbestos-induced lung cancer. However, if the diagnosis is determined correctly and the patient commences the treatment early, he/she is quite likely to have an active life for many years after.
Log Repair or Replacement
If your log home requires log repair or replacement make sure all estimates are calculating the same amount of repair. Many times it is difficult to determine exactly how much decay there is until they begin, but you can get a price of what the approximate cost is per foot. Also, is the estimate for 1/2 log or full log replacement? When a log is more than 50% decayed, full log replacement is usually necessary. If the log is decayed less than 50%, the decayed area can be removed and 1/2 log can be used. Verify the contractor is using the same log species and log profile to match your existing structure. If you are having log repair only, most restoration companies will include staining the new logs to the best of their ability, blending the stain to best match the existing logs and caulk if necessary.
Removing the Existing Finish
There are different methods for removing the existing finish from the logs. Corn cob blasting, chemical stripping and other blasting media such as; glass or walnuts may be used. All methods have pros and cons and are effective when done correctly however; either method can damage your logs when done incorrectly. Please Note: Many log professionals find what works best for them and have years of experience mastering the technique. We encourage you to talk with each company about their specific method. Keep in mind they can be very “opinionated and passionate” about the method they use.
Log Wash
Once the old finish has been removed, verify the logs will be lightly washed to remove mold spores, dirt, media debris, etc.
Borate
Borate is applied to clean, dry, bare wood; therefore it can only be applied when the home is first built or after blasting. This is a fairly inexpensive, yet a very important step that we strongly suggest you take advantage of while you have the opportunity. Borate will help protect the wood from insects, fungus and decay. You also have the option of adding Bug Juice to the stain which will help prevent insects.
Log Home Stain
There are many quality log home finishes available. Ask the contractor what product is being quoted and investigate the particular manufacturer. Be sure the suggested number of coats will be applied and are stated in your estimate. If you are uncertain about the color choice, ask if you can receive samples prior to staining. If you plan to stain your log home yourself, it is very important to closely follow the manufacturer’s specifications and use the proper technique to avoid lap marks or drips.
Asbestos in Toronto: What concerns asbestos in buildings, Ontario has very severe rules, especially since 2007. Landlords have to submit any strange material deteriorating in the building for examination. There are professional companies that can remove the asbestos safely, if its presence is found out. If it is found out that the deterioration might continue, the professionals will remove the whole affected area, again following strict safety rules.
These grants are better option to the beneficiary as these grants make you get your home repaired instantly and also you will not have to repay these debts. Thus these are the best options available for your dreams to come true
Resource Author Francisco R. Higueras
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