Eco-friendly may sound like a buzz word. However, following the guidelines leads to greater log home efficiency. You don’t want to pay extra on your utilities because the cold air is leaking out around the windowsill. Therefore, it’s time to consider some fixes for your log cabin.

Energy Star

Energy star is a set of standards that are applied to windows and other household items. You can use these standards to inspect your current windows. If your existing windows are not energy star rated, then it’s time to consider replacing all your log cabin windows. However, should replacing all your log home’s windows not be possible, there are other steps you can take to stop the leaks.

Caulk

Caulk is an excellent choice for sealing non-moving pieces. For example, if you have a window that doesn’t open, caulk is a proper choice for that part of your log cabin. Caulk is also suitable for small cracks on frames. There are many different types of caulk, so make sure to check the one you have is ideal for all your log home projects.

Flanges

A flange is a piece of material ranging from brass to nylon with a spring. If you have older windows in your log cabin, these can be used to reestablish seals. Attach the flange to one side of your window frame. The spring then forces your window to seal tightly against the other side of the frame. Flanges come in a lay-flat and legged varieties depending on how big the window gap is.

Applied Weather-stripping

Weather-stripping comes in a variety of styles, usually either nail-on or self-adhering. The material you’ll need to fix you log home windows depends on the size of the area. Self-adhering weather stripping generally does not move very well. However, the ease of install means you can easily replace it. It also works on frames in your log cabin that are too brittle for nailing.

Nailed on weather-stripping is inherently more stable. Typically, this is called integral weather stripping since it affects the integrity of your log home’s window. This generally is the most robust option available for your log cabin windows though, and the most durable fix.

Spray-On

There are also spray-on products available. Typically, these contain some form of polyurethane compound. This method works best when you don’t know precisely where in the window the leak is coming from in your log home. The best application typically requires you remove the window frame from your log cabin, apply the foam, and then replace the frame.

Compression Tubing

This tubing is technically weather-stripping as well. Attach each tube to your log cabin window frame. Then, you simply close the window. The pressure from your log homes windows’ weight forces the tubing to expand into the available space. Done correctly, this locks out drafts from your old log home windows. Considering changing up the seals on your windows lowers your energy bill, which in turn helps the environment.