Best log home finish- Oil vs Water

Which finish is better for your log or wood home-- oil-based or water-based? We don’t like to pick a side, because the best choice can vary by situation and there are high-performance brands with each. Each category of wood finish has its advantages and disadvantages, and even those differences can vary between brands and formulas.

Deep-penetrating oils are often a preferred choice for high-moisture regions that need the most breathable finish on the wood. Deep-penetrating oils are great for decks and horizontal surfaces because they won’t peel and are easy to maintain. Shallow-penetrating finishes, which can be oil-based or hybrid oil-waterborne formulas, generally are more compatible with caulk and chinking sealants than penetrating oils and they are generally more forgiving to maintain than surface stains. Surface stains are water-based and typically offer the best durability but also require the most meticulous of preparation and maintenance.

No matter what finish you choose for your project, preparation of the surface and proper conditions during application are the biggest factors in achieve the best performance of your log home or wood stain.

For your convenience, we offer a calculator that allows you to determine an estimated amount of staining you need for your home. Our team is also available to answer your questions and guide you through the staining process. Contact us today and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have about choosing a finish that is right for your situation.

 

Questions on maintaining the legacy of your wood structure? Give us a call- 1-800-359-6614

Pickup in store - or ship to your door -in whichever woods your cabin dwells.

 Schroeder Log Home Supply, Inc. 

1101 SE 7th Avenue

Grand Rapids MN 55744

1-800-359-6614