We have seen much debate over the years on whether to pressure clean or media blast a log home. Today we hope to settle this question for the homeowner, and help you make an informed decision on the proper care of your log home. So, whether you are staining your new log home for the first time, or needing a facelift for your older log home, here are a few things to consider.
New Construction Log Homes
When staining a newly constructed log home, we are asked frequently why it’s important to pressure clean the home when the logs are new? There are 2 reasons pressure cleaning is important for your new log home: mill glaze and mildew. Mill glaze happens when the logs are being shaped at the mill. The mill blades are turning at such high rpms that it creates mill glaze, which closes up the pores of the logs and will not allow stain to adhere and penetrate the wood properly.
The second reason pressure cleaning is important is the mold and mildew. Keep in mind that just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it’s not there. Mold and mildew spores can be in the wood, even when you cannot physically see it. If the logs are not cleaned properly, with the stain manufacturer’s recommended cleaning procedures, the mold and mildew can continue to grow, even after the stain has been applied. This can lead to stain failure, which can lead to having to strip or blast the logs and start from scratch again.
Previously Stained Log Homes
With an existing log home that has been previously stained, most manufacturers recommend doing a light pressure cleaning to your logs, at least once a year, to keep the mold and mildew at bay and keep your stain looking fresh. When it’s time to put a maintenance coat on your log home, always read and follow the stain manufacturer’s recommended cleaning procedures. Make sure to inspect your log home, and the condition of the stain, before you decide which of the 2 options to choose – whether to pressure clean or media blast.
If the stain on your home has begun to fail, then you will most likely need to turn to media blasting. If you try to apply stain on top of logs with stain that has already begun to fail, then the new stain will come off as what’s underneath begins to come off the logs. Any stain manufacturer will tell you their product is only as good as what’s underneath it.
After inspecting the condition of the stain on your home, if the existing stain appears to be in good condition, then a simple, light pressure cleaning will be all you need to do before putting a fresh coat of stain on your home. Make sure you use the proper cleaning chemicals and methods recommended by the stain manufacturer, before using the stain product.
