Restoring exterior of log cabin

We live in northern Alberta, Canada in a boreal forest area - hot summers and cold winters. We bought a log cabin/house built in the 1980s probably a kit. We need to reseal (?) the outside to prevent anymore insect and weather damage.the construction is chinkless round log with some kind of insulation between the logs. On some logs we are seeing insect activity in joints, and also spaces where the logs have shrunk. The original finish was boiled linseed oil. It has been recommended that we wash the exterior with a borax and water mix first and then reseal. Advice? Experience from everyone welcome!

Hi Carol,

Borax works great but is hard on plants, so I usually start with Oxi-Clean and a low pressure spray wash. Then recoat with Penofin if you can get it or BLO will be fine, but it doesn't have a UV blocker.

Insects are bad for houses; especially since they indicate that there is moisture in the log. Get rid of the moisture intrusion(most likely bad roof/wall interface flashings) and you are on your way to eliminating the bugs. Then bread yeast and DE can be used to kill them if they don't just leave on their own. After removing the nests and decay and ensuring all is dry,then use a wood filler. The best patch is made with nasty ole 2 part epoxy. I use Abatron.

All Blessings,
Bill