How To Sand Blast a Log House

Sandblasting is the most effective way to restore a log house to its bare condition.

One of the most effective methods of restoring the exterior of a log home is sandblasting. Too many layers of old wood finish often retain excessive moisture, causing the logs to rot. A sandblaster uses compressed air to propel a stream of abrasive granules onto a target. With various pressure settings, it has the ability to restore the house to its bare condition almost instantaneously. Although convenient, sandblasting the exterior of a log home requires detailed preparation and protective measures.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic sheeting
• Safety goggles
• Working gloves
• Painter's suit
• Respirator
• Sandblaster
• Silica sand

Instructions

1. Clear the perimeter of the log house of objects that could be affected by stray sand. Cover any exposed surfaces that don't require sandblasting; use plastic sheeting or a tarp to protect these areas.

2. Wear safety goggles and working gloves before operating the sandblaster. Cover your body entirely with a painter's suit equipped with a hood; the sand is likely to ricochet off the wood and in your direction at high speed. Put on a respirator to avoid inhaling sawdust and traces of the chemical wood finish.

3. Turn off the valves on the sandblaster, then fill it with at least 10 lb. of silica sand. Start the compressor and allow it to pressurize to between 40 and 100 PSI (pounds per square inch).

4. Stand eight to 16 inches away from the log house, and set the sandblaster on a low PSI setting initially. Point the nozzle at the targeted surface and squeeze the trigger to dispense the sand.

5. Sandblast the wood from top to bottom for even coverage. Spray the small sections with short bursts, and use sweeping motions for larger sections. Gradually increase the pressure until the finish is removed, or until you've achieved the desired results.

References

• Log Home Restorations: Sandblasting Your Log Home
• Log Cabin Living: Tips on Cleaning Logs