Log Home Defects

The term “structural failure” brings to mind visions of crumbling and collapse of the home foundation, walls and roof which would be called “catastrophic failure”. By far the most common type of structural failure is slow, long-term failure which takes place over years rather than in a few moments.

Part of an inspector's job is to recognize and comment on signs of existing failure, allowing their client to negotiate for corrections and preventing future damage. Sometimes, no signs of failure may be visible at the time of the inspection, especially in newer homes. In these situations it's up to inspectors to recognize conditions which will eventually cause failure if not corrected.

The forces which typically cause failure in log homes are the following:

• Soil movement
• Decay
• Wood-destroying insect activity
• Poor construction practices (design, materials or workmanship)
• Log movement

SELLER INSTRUCTIONS

Because of the many variables and liability inherent in log home inspection, inspectors may wish to create a list of documents to be made available by the seller for examination by the inspector during the inspection. These might include documents showing...

• the name of the original builder.
• proof of certified log grading.
• written settling adjustment records.
• any special systems installed but not visible at the time of the inspection.
• any performed maintenance.
• additional construction or repair since the original construction.