Chinking is the material that goes between the logs of many logs structures. This is more than just a pretty look chinking acts as a form of insulation and as a barrier to the elements outside and it also keeps the weather outside and comfort of your home inside. The traditional chinking is a mortal like substance that will crack, break and pull away from the logs but there are newer elastic chinking that responds better to the movement of the logs.

Its’ up to the homeowners what type of chinking they want to use, however elastic chinking maintains the traditional looks of the mortar without stretching out so it will still look good after years of log movement. Chinking stops air and infiltration of moisture into your home and can be also a design feature of your home because of the contrasting colors that give it into the logs.

Chinking is a mixture of clay, lime and with variations based on what is locally available but today we use acrylic, elastic compound that adheres to the logs and stretch and contract as the logs settle and move seasonally. If you are chinking a new or existing log home, you will need to think about the finish that is in your home or that you will be applying to make sure it will be compatible with the chinking.