Natural wood has a unique beauty all its own, and log homes are perfect for showcasing nature’s best and letting wood’s natural beauty shine through. All that gorgeous wood needs some loving care, though, in order to keep its luster and last long, but not just any old stain will do. While it may seem easier and cheaper to buy a wood stain at your local home improvement store, choosing one that’s been specifically formulated for log homes will save you money in the long run, and keep your home looking its best.
To find stains that will work best for your log home, your best bet is to find a log home supply store or go online for more selections. A great idea is to reach out to a company that specializes in log home maintenance and restoration to ask what they use or recommend. A good log home stain is formulated to prevent moisture from entering the logs, has enough pigment to help prevent sun damage and will let the logs “breathe” so that moisture that does get in will be allowed to evaporate quickly.
One common myth is that if you live in a dry area, you don’t need to stain or seal. Not true. A stain’s main function is to both repel moisture AND protect the logs from damaging UV rays. Dry areas with lots of sun, like California, still need stain’s protection in order to keep the logs in prime condition.
Paint is also not a good choice for log homes. If a house painter or contractor suggests using paint or a budget brand of stain for your log home, stop and consult with a professional log home expert before making a decision. Traditional house paints or stains can actually damage logs by sealing in moisture and accelerating moisture damage and rot. Paint also will quickly peel, flake and crack and will require blasting to remove. Stains that are intended for log homes, however, make your logs look good and allows them to breathe while still offering protection against the elements.
Choosing the right stain for your log home will in the long look better, last longer, and be much less costly than the damage that paint or the wrong kind of stain can cause. If you are considering stain for your log home or cabin, please feel free to call us at 877-477-6564 for a free consultation about the best types you can use for the health, beauty and longevity of your home. We’ve specialized in log home staining, repairs and restoration for over 20 years and have the knowledge, equipment and experience to help you make sure your home stays healthy and looks great!
