Answers

Call Ryan at 877-788-5647 or ryan@logrepair.com He may know of someone out that way.

You will need to screw them into place with Log Boss fasteners http://www.timelesswoodcare.com/Log-Home-Fasteners_c_22.html You will also want to caulk around all openings with Energy Seal caulk. Call 800-564-2987 for the products that you will need.

Here a couple of videos that should help.

You will need a structural engineer to look at it to make sure that it will still be structurally sound when removed. I would also say get an architect to draw plans on filling in opening.

Call Dave at 800-564-2987 and ask him about Wood Epox. It is a two part mixture that you can fill and shape in with. It also has a color kit to match your logs.

The cracking, popping noise will happen basically forever when there is a temperature change that cause the logs to expand and contract.

Sounds like it is oakum. You will have to remove or cover with Perma Chink if there is room.

Never have seen it attached from the inside.

A quick go over with 60 grit wouldn’t be a bad idea. Cedar is even more susceptible to peeling if too smooth due to all of the tannin in it.

I do not. Not sure that there is such a person as a ”licensed” log home inspector. Most states do not license home inspectors. Call Mike at 866-670-3020 for more help.