Log Cabin Stains: Best Practices For Re-Staining

Log cabin stains are a great way to beatify your cabin. However, if you are re-staining your log cabin, you need to pay close attention before you start staining again. In this post, I will review the best practices when re-staining your log cabin.

 

Log Cabin Stains: Best Practices For Re-Staining

 

The question

 

When re-staining a previously stained log home, what prep procedures do you recommend before applying a new coat of stains? Is power washing sufficient?

 

The answer

 

Depends on the condition of the existing coating. And whether it can be finished/recoated.

 

Some products require total removal. That’s why you may have read to recoat before 24 hours, or that the second coat must be applied within seven days of the first coat on the data pages. Otherwise, the product would sit on top remaining tacky, and never “dry.”

Data pages may also state that only one coat is necessary due to the composition of the product. Excessive film build may create a glossy/tacky finish. Many stain products penetrate into the wood, not just sit on top.

 

Recommendation: Test first

 

Test the absorbency of the finish by sprinkling water on the surface. If the water penetrates, then most likely it can be coated over. If the water beads up or does not penetrate, my suggestion would be to remove the existing coating.

 

Recognize that any surface preparation short of total removal of the old coating may compromise the service length of the new system. It is always best practice to start with a clean slate to ensure proper installation.

 

So Amigos, do you recommend any other tips when re-staining log cabins? Share below…

 

Also, check out Paint Amigo’s log cabin applicator recommendations below (Amazon Affiliate links)…

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Log Cabin Applicators

 

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