Log Home Staining

RE-STAINING A LOG HOME
Understanding Water-Based Stain, Proper Preparation, and Long-Term Protection
Re-staining a log home can feel overwhelming. The key is understanding how stain works, what type of stain your structure needs, and how proper preparation affects longevity. At True North Log Works, we use only water-based Perma-Chink Systems® products, because they offer superior UV protection, breathability, and long-term performance for log and timber structures.
This guide explains everything homeowners need to know before starting a re-staining project, how stain works, how logs should be prepared, how colour is selected, and how to properly maintain the finish over time.

What Is Wood Stain?
Wood stain is a semi-transparent finish that:

penetrates the wood fibers
enhances the natural grain
protects against UV damage, moisture, dirt, and weather
maintains the natural log and timber appearance

Unlike paint, stain does not cover the wood. Instead, it preserves and highlights its natural character.
For log homes, choosing a high-quality stain system is essential. We use Perma-Chink Lifeline® water-based systems because they are engineered specifically to protect logs from sun, moisture, and seasonal movement.

Why Only Water-Based Stains?
Modern water-based systems outperform oil-based stains in almost every category important to log homes:
✔ Superior UV protection
✔ Breathable coating that allows moisture escape
✔ No trapping of moisture inside logs
✔ Long-lasting colour stability
✔ Easier maintenance cycles
✔ Environmentally friendly, non-toxic, low-VOC
✔ Designed specifically for log and timber structures
Oil-based stains tend to:

trap moisture
darken or amber over time
form brittle films
require heavy sanding or stripping during maintenance

For these reasons, True North Log Works is exclusively a water-based stain company.

Preparing Your Logs Before Re-Staining
Proper preparation determines how well your stain performs.
✔ Light Cleaning (Maintenance Coat Only)
If the stain is still in good condition:

Clean with LOG WASH™ or mild soap
Use a soft brush or cloth
Never use a pressure washer

Pressure washing damages the soft grain, forces water into the logs, and can create long-term mold and rot issues.
✔ Removing Old Stain (Full Restoration)
If the finish is failing, uneven, or if you want a new colour, old stain must be removed.
The two accepted methods are:
1. Crushed Glass Blasting

Uses ultra-fine 50/100 grit recycled glass
Silica-free, non-toxic, 100% environmentally friendly
Removes old coatings and UV-damaged wood
Leaves a slight profile that allows 3× deeper stain penetration
Works on logs, siding, beams, and soffits

This is the most effective preparation method for long-lasting water-based stain performance.
2. Sanding / Grinding
Remove weathered wood, old finishes, and surface contaminants using sanders.
Smooth and clean the log surface while preserving the wood’s natural character.
Open the wood grain to improve stain penetration and finish adhesion.
Expose and identify cracks, rot, or damage during the sanding process.
Prepare the logs for long-lasting restoration and finishing work.
Softer on the wood.

Choosing a Stain Colour
In general:

Darker stain = more pigment = better UV protection
Lighter stain = more natural look but requires more maintenance

Every log home stain manufacturer has its own formulation.
Perma-Chink offers a wide range of colours designed for durability and UV stability.
We always conduct sample testing directly on your logs to ensure you love the final colour.
Can You Change the Colour?
Yes, but not over old stain.
Old coatings must be removed by blasting or sanding until the logs return to bare wood. Only then can a new colour be applied.

Log Maintenance After Staining
To keep your finish performing, proper maintenance is essential.
✔ Clean annually
Use LOG WASH™ or mild soap and water.
Avoid pressure washers entirely.
✔ Watch for buildup
Homes near gravel roads or dusty areas may require more frequent cleaning.
✔ Keep moisture away
Fix gutters, downspouts, and sprinklers immediately.
Moisture causes mold, mildew, and rot.
✔ Inspect high-exposure walls
South- and west-facing walls receive the most sun.
They may require more frequent maintenance coats.

How Often Should You Re-Stain?
General guidelines:

Every 4–6 years for most homes
Every 2–3 years for south/west walls
Maintenance coats extend longevity dramatically

Climate, UV exposure, and wood condition all influence timing.

How We Re-Stain a Log Home

Assess the home’s condition
Remove old stain
Clean and prepare all surfaces
Apply water-based Perma-Chink Lifeline® stain
Back-brush for consistent penetration
Apply clear topcoat
Complete inspection and touch-ups

Every project is customized to the condition of your logs and the Perma-Chink system selected.

Choosing the Right Water-Based Log Stain
Hardware store stains are not formulated for log structures.
For long-term performance, your stain must:

prevent moisture absorption
include UV inhibitors
flex with seasonal movement
protect against mildew and surface degradation
be part of a full stain + topcoat system

This is why we use only Perma-Chink Systems®.

Costs of Re-Staining a Log Home
Pricing depends on:

condition of existing stain
blasting or sanding requirements
log species and age
surface area
UV and weather exposure
mold, mildew, or early rot
repairs needed

Stain vs. Preservative, Are They the Same?
No.

Stain protects the surface from UV and moisture.
Preservatives protect the internal wood fibers from insects, mold, and rot.

Most log home finishing systems require both.
Perma-Chink offers preservatives, stains, and topcoats designed to work together.

Log homes naturally weather over time, but with the right preparation and a high-quality water-based stain system, they can be restored beautifully and protected for years to come.
Understanding stain, choosing the correct product, preparing your logs properly, and working with a skilled professional ensures the best results.
At True North Log Works, we use only Perma-Chink Systems® water-based stains and sealants to ensure maximum protection, durability, and long-term value for your home.