Shrinkage in Log Homes

The term, Shrinkage, refers to the property of timber to change dimensionally as it loses moisture. Shrinkage can occur in a round log both in diameter and tangentially (along the rings). It can cause warping, twisting, and cracks (checks). Shrinkage characteristics can differ between wood species. Shrinkage is not usually a problem with log homes unless logs have not been dried properly or if compensating construction techniques are not used.