Log homes do not need to be high maintenance if you follow a few simple steps: 1) Hire a reputable exterminator to treat the house twice a year. 2) Make sure your landscaping is not too close to the side of the home. 3) Check that your gutters and downspouts are in good working condition. 4) Once a year do a visual inspection of the exterior for areas that may need to be re-caulked or touched up.