I have a log-sided house. It is beautiful, BEAUTIFUL! But it is a giant, *expensive* PITA to upkeep. It has to re-stained periodically, and right now ours needs to be re-chinked. Every wood-loving pest in the area will go after it -- yearly exterminator costs to deal with the carpenter bees are a given -- even woodpeckers have at it occasionally. Whatever the form of wood siding, there's just no way around the upkeep -- it is in no way, shape, or form a "don't have to think about it" material like brick or stone.

I've toyed with the idea of replacing some or all of it with a stone facade, but I need to sit down with cost estimates -- how much in routine upkeep over the next 30 years vs re-facing cost.

thanks @mxk3! what is the range of cost annually for upkeep? I understand it varies by region, by just want to get a rouge idea. thank you!

The siding on that house needs a re-do right out of the gate -- I would get estimates from professionals in your area.

thanks mxk3 how can you tell the siding definitely need to be replaced? pardon my ignorance. thank you so much!

At a minimum it definitely needs re-finishing (not sure it's opaque stain or paint), but you need a professional or inspector to examine it to see if parts or all needs repair/replacing due to damage.