How to Stain a Log Cabin

Log homes are beautiful but they do require a little extra work to maintain. If the exterior of a log home is left unprotected then the wood will break down. Water and sun will erode the wood allowing bugs to get into the home. Maintaining a log home's exterior with a good stain that is either semi-transparent or a solid pigment will help protect the wood.

Instructions

1. Prepare the surface. The exterior of the log home needs to be cleaned of any debris such as previous stain, mildew, dust and loose wood fibers. If it is an older cabin, sanding of the previous stain may be necessary. Otherwise, a pressure washer is great for cleaning the surface.

2. Mask off all windows, doors, light fixtures and concrete footings with plastic and tape.

3. Choose your stain. There are many different manufacturers of log stain available so choose one that is best for you. A pigmented or semi-transparent stain is recommended as it will last longer and they come in a variety of different shades.

4. Spray the stain on. Use an airless power paint sprayer to apply the stain evenly. Apply a thick and heavy coat when spraying.

5. Back brush the applied stain. Two people may be needed for this project. One person sprays on the stain while another person back brushes the stain to force it to soak into the wood and allow an even finish.

6. Allow the cabin exterior to dry for 24 to 48 hours depending on the weather. A second coat of spray may be needed depending on the type of stain used. Allow each coat to fully dry before applying another.

Tips & Warnings

• Scaffolding, ladders and a bucket truck can all be used to reach high places.

• Apply during dry weather. Try to avoid staining on windy days.

• Solid pigment stains can be used over old stain so there is no need for removal of old stain. However, this also hides the grain of the wood.

Resources

• Staining a log cabin
• Staining log cabins
• Wood stains