How to Repair Peeled Spots

by Perma-Chink Systems, Inc

We occasionally get calls about repairing spots of finish that have peeled from logs, handrails, etc. In most cases the peeling is associated with checks or small fissures that have opened up after the finish was first applied. When this occurs rain water soaks into the bare wood on ether side of the check and when the sun beats on the area the wood turns to water vapor which has enough force to push the finish right off of the surface. If the peeling is limited to a few small areas, touching them up is not very difficult.

Before we get started on the best way to perform the repairs there is one thing we need to cover. If you have leftover product that's over two years old you need to obtain enough fresh stain and topcoat to accomplish the repairs. Using old product is risky and unnecessary. Give us a call and we'll see if there is anything we can do to help. 

Following are the recommended procedures for touching up peeled areas:

1. Sand the peeled areas with 60 to 80 grit sandpaper. Do not use a finer grit. We want the stain to have something to grab onto. Be sure to sand off any surrounding stain film that looks like it may have lost its adhesion.
2. If it's just a few small areas wipe down the sanded spots with a damp rag. For larger spots or multiple areas on a wall it's best to wash the entire wall with a two cups per gallon Log Wash solution. Allow the wall to dry.
3. If the peeling is associated with checks that are ¼” or more wide, seal them with CheckMate 2 after sanding and cleaning but before staining. This will help make the CheckMate 2 less visible.
4. Using a rag not a brush, apply one or two coats of stain to the bare wood. You want to apply enough stain to match the color of the surrounding wood. Since the coarse sanded area may be more absorbent than the original surface one coat of stain may be sufficient to match what's already there. Using a rag helps avoid lap marks and gets some stain down into any unsealed checks as well as small cracks and fissures. 

Once the stain has been applied and the color matches the surrounding wood, one or two coats of Advance Topcoat can be applied with a brush or rag. Lap marks are not much of a concern since the Advance is clear and colorless.

 

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

 

Applying Sashco Colorfast

 Everyone knows that color is king on a log home stain job, but pleasing the king can be difficult! Wood porosity differences lead to blotchy, uneven results when staining. UV damage causes the wood to yellow your stain or interior clear coat. That once-perfect color is lost. That’s why you need Sashco’s Colorfast. Colorfast strengthens the glue that binds the wood cells together, called lignin, preventing yellowing of the underlying wood cells to help maintain a consistent color year after year. Before staining, Colorfast evens out wood porosity, creating a smoother surface for stain application and preventing over-absorption and a too-dark color. After staining, the lignin stabilizers prevent the wood underneath from getting sunburned, leaving the stain or clear coat applied on top looking the same year after year. It’s color confidence for your log home. Color: Goes on milky white. Dries clear.

Why use Colorfast™?

• Keeps the color the color: Lignin (wood cell glue) stabilizers prevent yellowing and darkening of the wood itself overtime, which in turn prevent color shifts in the stain applied over top. Light colors stay light and darker colors don’t shift too dark.

• Reduces blotchiness: Fills pores for a smoother surface and more even stain application. Great for blasted, rough-sawn, knotty pine, or milled logs.

• Prevents picture-frame effect on interior wood: Apply on bare wood on the interior of the home and under Sashco’s Symphony ® interior clear coat to avoid yellowing around wall décor.

• Use under any Sashco stain: Using oil-based Transformation Log & Timber? Water-based Capture®, Cascade®, or Symphony® ? No problem.

• Easier stain application: Greatly reduces the need to back-
brush the stain applied over top.

• Great as a log keeper coat: Prevents mold and yellowing due to UV damage on new wood as it moves from the mill to the job site and throughout construction. Contains both mildewcide and algaecide to help preserve the wood until it’s time to stain. Or, life happened and you need to wait for a few weeks between prep and staining? No problem.

• Seal those ends: When applied heavily on log ends, prevents over-penetration of stain and log ends that are darker than the rest of the logs. 

Application Instructions

Exterior Application Instructions

Proper substrate preparation and product application mean greater longevity, a better color, and better long-term performance. Read this full Colorfast™ Info Sheet before applying any product and call Sashco at 800-767-5656 with any project-specific questions.

1. Make sure it sticks: If you are changing from one stain product to another, contact us first. Colorfast™ will adhere to almost any surface that is properly prepped. Any product already on the wood, and especially those that contains waxes, non-drying oils, or silicones, will interfere with the adhesion and penetration of Colorfast™ and must be removed before the product is applied.

2. Clean the surface: Media blast, power wash, or sand wood surfaces using an Osborn ® brush or 60 to 80 grit sandpaper to remove all previous stains and loose, unsound gray or yellow wood fibers, along with mill glaze, pollen, and other surface contaminants. This creates the best surface for Colorfast™ penetration and stain longevity. If mold or algae is present, apply Sashco’s CPR ® in the brightener strength according to the directions or apply fresh bleach in a 4 parts water to 1 part bleach solution. Allow it to sit no more than 20 minutes, then thoroughly rinse. If necessary, use a chemical remover. (Follow label instructions carefully and ensure wood is back to neutral pH, checking with pH strips.)

3. Remove fuzz: For best appearance, remove felting (wood fuzz) with Osborn® brushes, Sashco’s Buffy Pad system or 60 to 80 grit sandpaper once the wood is dry. Remove all sawdust with a broom, compressed air, or a leaf blower, or rinse with water.

4. Apply preservatives: Apply Tim-bor ® according to directions for protection against wood rot and wood-ingesting insects BEFORE Colorfast™ is applied. Allow wood to dry 1–3 days, until wood is at or below 19% moisture content level. (Use a moisture meter to check!) 

5. Timing matters: UV rays from the sun can damage the wood you just worked so hard to prep in as little as 1 week; therefore, Colorfast™ should be applied as soon as possible after wood prep is complete. If cold or rainy weather threaten or delay your staining project, you may apply Colorfast™ and wait up to 8 weeks to apply stain. The mildewcide, algaecide, and lignin stabilizers in Colorfast™ will keep your wood protected during that time. (Score!) Be sure to clean off surface contaminants before staining. If any further sanding prep is needed, remember to reapply Colorfast™ to freshly sanded areas before staining for a consistent finish. 

6. Air and surface temperatures matter: Plan to apply Colorfast™ when air and surface temps are between 40°– 90°F (4°– 32°C). Use an infrared thermometer to check surface temps. Temps that are
too hot dry Colorfast™ too quickly, preventing proper penetration. Temps that are too cold will freeze Colorfast™, preventing both proper penetration and proper curing. 

7. Don’t get caught out in the rain: While Colorfast™ can be stained over as soon as it’s dry to the touch (usually in 2 hours or less). Full cure takes longer. A heavy rain could wash off both Colorfast™ and any stains applied over top, requiring extensive prep to remove the mess and reapplication of the product. Avoid rain both on the day of application and for a full 24 hours afterwards. You may also plan to cover surfaces if rain is expected.

8. Wood must be dry: Use a moisture meter to make sure wood is at or below 19% moisture content level before applying Colorfast™. Damp wood can prevent Colorfast™ from penetrating properly and also increases the risk of water stains, rot, and peeling stain. 

9. Mix it up: Thoroughly mix Colorfast™ with a drill-driven, squirrel-cage type mixer. Scrape any settled material off the bottom of the pail and thoroughly mix it in. Stir Colorfast™ every 15–20 minutes throughout application to ensure all ingredients are always mixed in.

10. Spray it on: Using a large (515+) spray tip on an airless sprayer, apply on one heavy coat of  Colorfast™, covering all the wood and inside cracks and checks. If only a brush is used, be sure to drench-apply Colorfast™ to ensure adequate coverage. Don’t skimp. Colorfast™ goes on milky white, but don’t worry: it dries clear.

11. Lightly back-brush: Using a block brush on a pole, lightly brush out Colorfast™ to make sure all the bare wood gets covered, to catch drips, and to coat the insides of every crack and check. Colorfast™ will soak into the wood completely, so don’t worry about foaming. Any areas that remain wet (white) after 10 minutes should be brushed into drier areas.

12. Dry time: Allow Colorfast™ to dry until clear before applying the final stain over it. Often, this is within 2 hours, but check cracks and checks where it may take longer. 13. Apply stain: Once dry, apply two coats of Sashco’s Capture ®, Transformation Log & Timber, or Transformation Siding & Trim. No matter which stain you use, the first coat will go further, will not penetrate as much, will not require vigorous back-brushing, and will be lighter in color than normal. This is OK! It means that Colorfast™ is working as designed. 

* Do not apply Colorfast™ to fiber cement, concrete, or other cementitious materials.

Interior Application Instructions:

Interior prep is not as intense: Surfaces must still be clean and free of contaminants and loose wood fibers, but media blasting and power washing aren’t required except in extraordinary circumstances (like the home was flooded or was in a fire). A general rule of thumb on interior wood is to prep the wood the
way you want it to feel when finished. On the interior, smoother wood is best and usually desired.

Spray it: Apply Colorfast™ the same way you would on exterior wood. Be aware that Colorfast™ will go further on smooth, less porous interior wood.

Stain it: Cover Colorfast™ with 1–2 coats of Sashco’s Symphony ® interior clear coat for easier cleaning, to maintain the original bright wood color, and add a beautiful satin or gloss sheen. Colorfast™ is formulated to prevent interior wood from yellowing. Hooray! If a color is desired, apply 1 coat of Sashco’s Capture®, or Transformation Siding & Trim in the color of your choice, followed by 1–2 coats of Symphony ®. Download the Symphony ® application instructions at sashco.com/log-home. 

Sashco Colorfast Pre-Stain

What’s Really Important

It is well known by painters and stainers everywhere that the single most important factor in the longevity of any staining or painting job is the quality of the prep done beforehand. Clean, sound, warm, dry, and textured wood are the five characteristics of a well-prepped surface. Download Restoring the Dream, Sashco’s complete guide to log home refinishing and maintenance for details on these five factors and other keys to a successful and long-lasting (read: let’s not ever do a restoration like this on our home again) job. Find it at sashco.com/restoration. The second most important factor affecting the longevity of stain is the quantity of stain applied to the wood. Light mist coats will fail quickly, even with the best stains out there. Applying as much Colorfast™ as the wood will accept, while back- brushing and forcing it into the wood, results in dramatically improved performance and longevity of both Colorfast™ and the Sashco stain applied over top. This includes filling any cracks or checks in the wood with stain! The first coat is the only time Colorfast™ can penetrate into the wood. See proper staining in action! Watch the video at http://bit.ly/1BOuB7L

 

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 

Applying Log End Seal by Perma-Chink

 

Log End Seal by Perma-Chink protects exposed log ends from deterioration from the elements. Log End Seal is a clear finish that helps to keep water from penetrating into the log ends and provides a durable layer of protection against sun, wind, and weather damage. Even if the log ends are coated with quality stain, the exposed grain of the wood acts like small straws drawing water into the log. This gives rot and decay an opportunity to start. If left unprotected, log or log corner replacement may eventually be required.

To apply, thoroughly sand all exposed log ends, taking care not to leave heavy sanding marks or gouges. Apply any Lifeline™ brand exterior stain to the entire home, including the log ends. When the Lifeline stain has dried, apply one coat of Log End Seal with a brush, pad or trowel taking care to completely cover the exposed log end. Try to avoid leaving brush marks or uncoated areas on the ends. Wipe off any excess that may have worked its way onto the sides of the logs. Let the Log End Seal dry and finish with a Lifeline topcoat over the entire home. Wash equipment and brushes with soap and warm water. Dried Log End Seal may be removed with alcohol.

Log End Seal is a product unique to Perma-Chink Systems. Although Log End Seal is a fairly simple and easy product to use there are some tips that can help you avoid problems especially in the fall when cooler temperatures slow down the curing process. The most important thing about applying Log End Seal is that it needs to go on in one thin coat. In order to attain a thin coat the log ends need to be sanded fairly smooth. If they are not smooth the rough surface texture will prevent a thin coat application and the thicker the film, the longer it will take to cure. One of the characteristics of Log End Seal is that it stays white until it is fully cured and if it gets wet during the curing process the white color can last for several weeks. If Log End Seal is applied in a thick coat and gets wet it may take several months for it to become completely clear and transparent. This is the most frequent cause of complaint from our customers. Eventually it will cure and become clear but in the meantime the log ends on your home will have a white haze.

Choosing the right application tool can help prevent applying too thick a film. Rather than using a standard paintbrush, a paint pad or sponge brush works well. Since Log End Seal is thick and viscous, some people prefer to apply Log End Seal with a wide blade trowel. Any of these tools will work as long as the Log End Seal is applied in a thin coat. When applied correctly one gallon of Log End Seal goes a long way. One gallon covers 30 to 40 square feet which equates to 100 eight inch diameter log ends or 180 six inch diameter log ends.

 

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

 

Transformation Log & Timber Application

Transformation Log & Timber is the low VOC formula of the original Transformation Log Stain by Sashco. It will transform your logs and vertical woodwork from dull and lifeless to rich and brilliant - especially for restoring older logs. Transformation is excellent for restoration log work. Transformation Log & Timber is the log home stain that's easy to remember because its name describes what you want and what it provides, Transformation! Perfect for new construction and restoration projects. Gloss sheen.  

 View the full data sheet here.

“A Better Way to Stain”

It‘s about Transformation: old and weathered logs brought to life again, or timbers refreshed with color when they were once only gray. These are the results we want for our dream home, but sometimes those results seem like a distant fantasy. We’ve seen other log and timber homes scorched by the sun and are afraid of the “big project” nature and the hefty price tag of maintaining our own. Contrary to common wisdom, having a great quality stain is only half the battle. The other half is what is neglected the most: routine maintenance. Over time, routine maintenance is truly the key to easier and less expensive staining. 

When done every 3-5 years, we find that routine maintenance saves a lot of time and money by eliminating much of the prep work before staining. Simply do a light power wash, allow the wood to dry, and apply a maintenance coat. No sanding or stain removal necessary. Your contractor will be happy you called him sooner rather than later, and your pocketbook will be, too. It’s that simple. 

Use a quality stain like Transformation Stain® Log & Timber and you’ll transform the look of your wood. Practice routine maintenance, and you’ll discover a better way to stain. 

For Sashco’s complete guide on a better way to stain, keep reading. You’ll find step-by-step instructions on the following key topics: 

Sampling 

To get the look you want, sample the stain on your wood. Prep Proper prep starts you down the right path. 

Application

Proper application of a quality stain ensures long-term performance. 

Routine Maintenance

Reduce long-term costs, time and effort.

 

 View the full data sheet here.

Sampling 

Proper sampling is where it starts. It is critical because the same stain can look very different on various species of wood. Different prep and application methods will also affect the final result. Therefore, sampling on your wood is the only way to make sure you get the color you want the first time. It’s easy: on a small, inconspicuous test area (we recommend a minimum 2 sq. ft. space), simply do each step the exact same way you will on all of your logs and timbers. 

• Prep the wood. 

• Apply the stain. 

• Let the stain dry (both between coats and after all coats are applied). 

• If working with a contractor, don’t allow the contractor to stain until you have thoroughly discussed and demonstrated the look you want. Show him/her the sample.

 • Don’t stain all of your logs and timbers before you verify that you’re achieving the look you want. It is best if you can be on-site when staining starts. Prep Proper substrate preparation and application mean greater longevity, better color, and better long-term performance. 

• Make sure it sticks: If you are changing from one stain product to another, contact us first. Transformation Log & Timber will adhere to almost any surface that is properly prepped. Be aware that any product already on the wood that contains waxes, non-drying oils, silicones, or anything that forms thick layers on the wood, can interfere with the adhesion and penetration of Transformation Log & Timber, or any stain, and must first be removed. Cleanliness is a virtue: Starting with an absolutely clean surface means better penetration and adhesion of the stain, which means better longevity and a more beautiful finish. 

• Media blast, vigorously power wash or sand wood surfaces using an Osborn® brush or 60—80 grit sand paper to remove failing stains and loose, unsound wood fibers, along with surface contaminants. 

• If mildew is present, apply Sashco’s CPR® in the brightener strength according to the directions, or apply fresh bleach in a 4 parts water to 1 part bleach solution. Allow it to sit no more than 20 minutes, and then thoroughly rinse. Fuzz be gone: For the best appearance, remove felting (wood fuzz) with Osborn brushes, Sashco’s Buffy Pad system or 60—80 grit sand paper once the wood is dry. Remove all sawdust with a broom, compressed air or a leaf blower. 

• Don’t delay: UV rays from the sun can damage cleaned wood surfaces in as little as 1 week; therefore, stain should be applied no more than 2 weeks after wood prep is completed. 

• Sunny with a chance of more sun: Plan to stain when the fore- cast is predicting clear, rain-free weather that will extend 1-2 days after the stain has been applied. If rain can’t be avoided, be sure to protect the stain from direct rainfall for 1-2 days after the stain is applied to prevent it from being washed off the surface. Preserve, please: Apply Sashco’s PeneTreat® for protection against wood rot and insects. Allow wood to dry at least 2-4 days. (Use a moisture meter to check it!) Osborn® is a trademark of Osborn International.

 

Application

Proper application of the stain, combined with the prep you’ve already done, will complete the transformation of your logs and timbers. 

1. Stay dry: 

Use a moisture meter to make sure wood is at or below 19% moisture content level before applying stain. Damp wood can prevent the stain from penetrating properly and can eventually lead to peeling. 

2. Say no to mildew: 

Help keep surface mold and mildew at bay by adding more mildewcides to the stain. We recommend Stay Clean I/E™. (now replaced with M-1)

3. Mix it up: 

Thoroughly mix the stain. The preferred method is to use a drill-driven, squirrel-cage type mixer. No matter what method is used to mix the stain, you can ensure the most consistent color by: 

• Scraping all pigment off the bottom of the pail and thoroughly mixing it in. 

• Interblending pails with different lot numbers. 

• Stirring the stain every 10-15 minutes throughout application to keep the pigments evenly distributed through the stain. 

4. Warm feelings: 

Apply Transformation Log & Timber to wood surfaces that are no colder than 40°F (4°C) and no hotter than 90°F (32°C). Extreme temperatures will prevent proper penetration and drying of the stain. Plan your work so that surface temperatures fall within this range. Do not apply to surfaces in direct intense sunlight and work in sections to avoid lap marks. 

5. Spray it again, please: 

a. Spray on one heavy coat of Transformation Log & Timber stain. If only a brush is used, be sure to drench-apply the stain. Don’t skimp. 

b. Vigorously brush the stain, pushing it into the wood and all cracks and checks, catching any drips. This promotes the best adhesion and penetration, and leaves an even, consistent coat of stain. 

• Wait until the first coat is dry (24 hrs.), then apply a light second coat of stain, spraying and back brushing as with the first coat. 

6. Bask in it:

Enjoy your beautiful log or timber home. 

Routine Maintenance 

Everyone knows that a $30 oil change twice a year beats a $2,000 mechanic’s bill. Routine maintenance on your logs or timbers could be the difference between $2,000 every 3-5 years or $20,000 to completely redo the job. It’s truly the key to “a better way to stain.” 

1. Cleanliness is still a virtue: 

• Lightly power wash your logs or timber to remove grease spots, pollen, bird droppings and other surface contaminants. 

• If mildew is present, apply Sashco’s CPR® in the cleaner strength according to the directions, or apply fresh bleach in a 4 parts water to 1 part bleach solution. Allow it to sit no more than 10 minutes, and then thoroughly rinse. Allow the surface to thoroughly dry. (This generally takes 2-4 days in ideal weather. To know for sure, use a moisture meter to check!) 

2. One more coat, please: 

• Spray on one maintenance coat of Transformation Stain® Log & Timber. If only a brush is used, be sure to drench-apply the stain to ensure adequate coverage. Don’t skimp. 

• Vigorously brush the stain, pushing it into the wood, catching any drips. This promotes the best adhesion and penetration, and leaves an even, consistent coat of stain. 

Clean Up

Clean brushes and equipment with mineral spirits. Hands may be cleaned with citrus-based hand cleaners, and then washed with soap and water. Follow local, state and federal guidelines for disposing of empty cans or any unused product. For rag disposal, see DANGER! statement.

Storage

Do not store in direct sunlight or hot conditions. Tightly reseal opened containers and store at temperatures between 50˚F and 90˚F (10˚C - 32˚C). If skinned over, remove the skin before thoroughly stirring the product.

 View the full data sheet here.

 

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

 

Symphony Clear Interior Wood Finish

Symphony Interior Wood Finish by Sashco. Enhances the look of wood by adding "depth" to the grain. Symphony is designed for the interior wood of your log home. It can be used on cabinets, paneling, wood trim, and can be used over many stains to add depth and richness to the color. Symphony is a water based polyurethane that is clear, fast-drying, and non-yellowing. Not recommended for floors or the exterior of your home.

Fundamental Application Guidelines

1. Proper substrate preparation and application are imperative for product longevity. Read this entire Info Sheet before applying any product. 

2. You should always test any coatings on your specific logs before applying to an entire wall. 

3. Apply only to interior walls where the roof is in place, the product is at room temperature, there are no cold drafts and the wood surfaces are between 50˚F (10˚C) and 90˚F (32˚C). 

4. Tannin staining should be dealt with before applying any interior clear coatings to bare logs. Refer to the section titled “Tannin Staining” for further information on this important topic. If you’ve applied a pigmented coat of stain, tannin staining is usually not an issue. 

5. The moisture content of interior wood should be low enough to resist microbial growth before applying any coatings, at least 19% or less. Use a moisture meter to make sure this is a fact. If the wood’s moisture content is higher, wait until it lowers to 15% or less, or add a biocide (such as Stay Clean I/E) to your coating before application.

Applying Symphony

NEW WOOD

If you’ve decided to keep your logs natural looking and only want to apply Symphony to bare wood, best results are obtained if you sand the wood to a smooth finish with fine sandpaper. Be certain to remove all dust before finishing. Do not use steel wool; it may cause rust stains. For a smoother finish, sand between coats.

FINISHED WOOD

Compatibility is a huge issue, so logs that already have some type of stain or sealer on them will need to be tested for compatibility; call us and we will talk you through the testing procedure. For best adhesion to non-Sashco coatings, it is usually best to lightly sand the surface before applying Symphony. For best adhesion to non-Sashco coatings, it is best to lightly sand the surface before applying Symphony. Old finishes may need to be mechanically removed if a lighter appearance is desired.

DILUTION/STIRRING

Do not dilute. Stir thoroughly before using. Do not shake as this will cause foaming.

APPLICATION METHODS

Brush or spray on two or more coats. More coats will impart a higher sheen. If brushing, use a high-quality synthetic bristle brush. Back brushing after spraying will enhance penetration into the wood surface. Brush material in the direction of the grain. Do not over-brush (bubbles can form). Sand between coats for a smoother finish.

DRY TIME

Symphony will dry to touch in one hour and can be sanded after two hours (when the air is warm & dry). Recoating can be done after 1-2 hours. Allow wood that will be handled to dry overnight. Actual dry time depends on thickness of coats, temperature and humidity.

Full details can be found here on the data sheet. 

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

Lap Marks in Stains Log and Wood Siding

 Lap Marks:
You can see the definite streak in the finish where one side is lighter than the other side. This happened when the logs were being finished. The applicator stopped at that point (probably at the end of the day) and then resumed later (probably the next morning). The overlap area of the finish will always cause a dark streak in the wall because of the build-up of finish in that particular area.

Prevention: When coating logs with stain or finish, never stop in the middle of a wall. Finish the entire wall before taking a break or quitting for the day. Coating across an entire log is also a good way to prevent lap marks.

Treatment: Other than stripping off the finish, you could go back and try to touch up the area, feathering from darker to lighter. This blending may not completely remove the lap mark but will make it less noticeable.

 

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

 

Avoid Peeling Finishes and Sunburned Logs

In this photo you can see the finish has blistered, cracked, and is starting to peel. This has happened because the finish has lost its adhesion. (Notice the top area where the log has become sunburned and turned gray).

One of the factors for peeling is the moisture content of the logs when they were coated. If the logs were too wet (20% or higher), the logs will continue to dry out and as they dry the resident moisture will move from the center of the log outwards to the surface. The moisture will form on the surface of the log between the finish and the wood. If the finish is very thick and heavy, a blister will form because the moisture can't pass through the barrier of the finish. If your logs are still quite green, we suggest that you apply only one coat of a log keeper finish, such as TM5 First Treat or Colorfast. This will give the logs some protection while still allowing the moisture to escape out through the one coat of finish. Once the logs have dried out to 19% or less, then you can apply your final finish. You can test the moisture content of your logs with a Moisture Meter. Also, moisture can also occur from checks holding water. When heat from the sun reaches and heats the log’s surface, the moisture is pulled to the surface causing a break in the wood-to-finish adhesion.

Any type of finish, either oil or water based can peel. Remember, it is the amount of finish build up that will provide the potential for peeling. Penetrating finishes tend to peel less because instead of acting like a plastic coating on the logs, they don't build up into one thick coating (less "plastic") thus, allowing moisture to escape out through the thinner coating. They do tend to weather away over time and will need to be re-coated periodically to maintain their protective qualities.

The gray, sunburned area on the top of the log shown in the picture is a result of prolonged, direct sunlight. This can be prevented in new construction by extending the eaves and overhangs to allow for more protection from the sun. Also, avoid using clear finishes alone because they provide less UV protection from the sun. You could also plant shade trees to help deflect the direct sunlight.

If your logs are sunburned you can typically get by with sanding down the sunburned areas with 60-80 grit and then reapplying your finish. You will need to reapply the same number of coats as the rest of the wall to match the color of the rest of the wall. Tip: When you are reapplying the finish to match the rest of the wall it is better to apply too much and make the sanded areas look darker then to not add enough so they look lighter. The darker areas will tend to look natural where lighter areas will stick out and look distinctively unnatural.

 

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

 

 

 

 

Sansin ENS

 

Sansin ENS on Vancouver Island Home

Sansin ENS is an environmentally-friendly highly durable glossy two-coat wood finish, designed for exterior vertical surfaces, siding, timber, furniture, windows and doors. It is exceptionally UV resistant, washable, low in VOC's, and non-flammable. Sansin ENS provides a rich and attractive coating with exceptional durability and weather protection. ENS is compatible to surfaces pre-treated using SDF or Classic. Sansin ENS offers excellent adhesion characteristics and can be applied over many waterbased or alkyd products to enhance protection and beauty. For increased protection use Sansin SDF or Sansin Classic for the first coat to ensure penetrating protection. Use ENS Naturals Top Coat or ENS Optimum for maintenance coats. 

Made in Canada.

Application Methods 

• For previously coated surfaces apply a small test area to ensure proper drying, adhesion and durability. 

• Brush using a good quality dual purpose brush. 

• Spray using hand or airless equipment with a .011-.013 tip. Set pressure to ensure desirable spray pattern. 

• Avoid high sheer pumps. 

• For a gloss finish, apply ENS Optimum Clear mixed 90:10 with the base color for the final coat. 

• If a low lustre sheen is required, use as final coat only. Use gloss for intermediate coats. 

Working Procedure 

• Apply ENS to all six sides of the wood, or for deep penetrating moisture protection, use Classic, SDF, Dec, KP-12 or Foundation as the first coat to surfaces like millwork and decks. 

• Stir well before and during application. 

• Spray application is preferred using air assist or airless spray equipment. 

• Apply a manageable film thickness. 

• Allow to dry. 

• Consider finish sanding for a smooth finish and remove dust. 

• Apply a second and third coat if necessary. Follow the above procedures. Ensure an adequate dry film thickness of 3 mils for optimum protection. 

• Do not overwork ENS as it is fast drying. 

• Do not apply in heat of day or direct sun. 

• Do not apply on wood that is warm to touch. 

• Do not apply if rain is expected or in near freezing temperatures. 

Maintenance 

Horizontal and vertical services require maintenance every 4-5 years. Maintenance is necessary when the surface shows signs of wear, such as fading or erosion. Low lustre finishes require more frequent maintenance than satin or high lustre finishes. Maintaining your wood on a regular basis will ensure long-lasting color retention, exceptional dimensional stabilization and effective water repellency. Periodically, clean the wood surface with a power washer or Sansin Multi-Wash to remove dirt and residue. How frequently maintenance coats are required will depend on the quality of prior preparation, quality of application and exposure levels. If fading or erosion is evident, prepare wood by using a power washer to lightly clean the wood surface; or use Sansin Multi-Wash. Then re-apply one maintenance coat of Sansin ENS according to instructions. Exposure, workmanship and color will affect the performance of the coating.

 

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

Schroeder Log Home Supply, Inc.
1101 SE 7th Avenue
Grand Rapids MN 55744

www.loghelp.com 

 

Transformation Siding & Trim

Transformation Siding & Trim in Honey Timber on log cabin

Transformation Siding & Trim is a unique water and oil emulsion provides a very easy finish to apply, but the cured coating is both stunningly beautiful and durable. Transformation Siding & Trim penetrates properly prepared wood and is extremely resistant to UV degradation, moisture, and oxidation. The high quality transoxide pigments enhance the natural beauty of wood grain while imparting a mellow sheen to the logs. Transformation Siding & Trim is compatible with PeneTreat (see Tim-bor), Log Builder Caulking, and Log Jam Chinking. Matte finish.

 

Transformation Siding & Trim will adhere to almost any surface that is properly prepped. Be aware that any product already on the wood that contains waxes, non-drying oils, silicones, or anything that forms thick layers on the wood, can interfere with the adhesion and penetration of Transformation Log & Timber (or any stain) and must first be removed.

It’s about Transformation: old and weathered wood siding brought to life again, or trim stained with color to create the perfect accent. These are the results stain was made for, yet rarely do we observe this in the real world. We see our neighbor’s stain peeling or are reluctant to repair our own siding due to its “big project” nature and the hefty price tag. Contrary to common wisdom, having a great quality stain is only half the battle. The other half is what is neglected the most: routine maintenance. Over time, routine main- tenance is truly the key to easy and inexpensive staining. When applied correctly and maintained every 3-4 years, you can be assured that Transformation Stain® Siding & Trim won’t peel. This eliminates the time and expense of sanding the surface before applying a maintenance coat. Simply do a light power wash, allow the wood to dry and apply another coat. It’s that easy, and you’ll find that your “big project” wasn’t so big after all. Use a quality stain like Transformation Siding & Trim and you’ll transform the look of your wood. Practice routine maintenance and you’ll discover a better way to stain. For Sashco’s complete guide on “a better way to stain,” keep reading.

You’ll find step-by-step instructions on the following key topics:

Sampling

To get the look you want, sample the stain on your wood.

Prep

Proper prep starts you down the right path.

Application

Proper application of a quality stain ensures long-term performance.

Routine Maintenance

Reduce long-term costs, time and effort.

 

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

Schroeder Log Home Supply, Inc.
1101 SE 7th Avenue
Grand Rapids MN 55744

www.loghelp.com

 

Transformation Log & Timber

Before/After Transformation L&T GTL. Credit: Liberty Log & Stain LLC

 

 

It‘s about Transformation: old and weathered logs brought to life again, or timbers refreshed with color when they were once only gray. These are the results we want for our dream home, but sometimes those results seem like a distant fantasy. We’ve seen other log and timber homes scorched by the sun and are afraid of the “big project” nature and the hefty price tag of maintaining our own. Contrary to common wisdom, having a great quality stain is only half the battle. The other half is what is neglected the most: routine maintenance. Over time, routine maintenance is truly the key to easier and less expensive staining. When done every 3-5 years, we find that routine maintenance saves a lot of time and money by eliminat-ing much of the prep work before staining. Simply do a light power wash, allow the wood to dry, and apply a maintenance coat. No sanding or stain removal necessary. Your contractor will be happy you called him sooner rather than later, and your pocketbook will be, too. It’s that simple. Use a quality stain like Transformation Stain® Log & Timber and you’ll transform the look of your wood. Practice routine maintenance, and you’ll discover a better way to stain.

 

 Transformation Log & Timber is the low VOC formula of the original Transformation Log Stain by Sashco. It will transform your logs and vertical woodwork from dull and lifeless to rich and brilliant - especially for restoring older logs. Transformation is excellent for restoration log work. Transformation Log & Timber is the log home stain that's easy to remember because its name describes what you want and what it provides, Transformation! Perfect for new construction and restoration projects. Gloss sheen. 

 

 

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

Schroeder Log Home Supply, Inc.
1101 SE 7th Avenue
Grand Rapids MN 55744

www.loghelp.com

 

Air vs Surface Temperature for staining log and wood

When applying exterior wood finishes, finding the perfect weather conditions can be a challenge. 72 degrees Fahrenheit with 50% relative humidity on a partly cloudy day with no rain in the forecast... we might get one or two of those in a Minnesota summer and chances are some other event will already be on the calendar.

 Finding label-ideal conditions may be a challenge, but temperatures and other weather conditions are important considerations for best coating performance. Besides avoiding precipitation, temperature is one of the most critical considerations. Beyond only checking the air temperature, almost more important is the surface temperature; after all, that’s where the stain will be applied and it needs ideal conditions to get the best performance. Air temperature only tells part of the story, but in the shade or in the sun the wood surface can vary greatly.

On one project staining rough-sawn cedar in early May, the air temperature at 9am was 48F and climbing. On the northeast corner of the house, where one side was in the shade and the other was in the morning sun, there were immediate differences. The north shaded side matched the air temperature of 48F and the east has already climbed to 70F. An hour later at 10am, air temperature has risen 4 degrees, but the sunny surface has risen 20. Most exterior finishes are ideally applied around 50-90F, so there was a situation where the air temperature and shaded side were at the minimum of 50F, but the surface on the sunny side was already at its maximum of 90F. The consideration of temperatures in the sun can be even more pronounced in the heat of peak summer. Later that afternoon, the air temperature was in the low 60’s, but the south sunny side was over 100F and unsuitable for staining. In that situation, staining on the south side was ceased until cloud cover returned and the surface had cooled to avoid flash-drying of the stain.

 The air thermometer may look ideal at 72F, but when measuring the surface of a sunny side, it may read well over 100F. Applying stains and sealers on surfaces that are too hot or too cold will result in poor penetration or adhesion, and ultimately the coating may fail. Handheld surface thermometers are as easy to use as a laser pointer. Approximately $30-$100 to purchase, they are undeniably cheaper and easier than stripping off failed stain and reapplying it all over again.

Without a surface thermometer, the layman technique would be to only stain in the shade or under cloud cover, with air temperatures at 50-90F (or whatever range is given on the product label).

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

Schroeder Log Home Supply, Inc.
1101 SE 7th Avenue
Grand Rapids MN 55744

www.loghelp.com

Capture Log Stain by Sashco

 

Capture Log Stain by Sashco is a log finish that is extremely effective and attractive semi-transparent stain that is followed by a weather repellent topcoat, Cascade. Capture Log Stain and Cascade work together. Both are freeze-thaw stable in their containers through at least 5 freeze-thaw cycles (freezing in the container, rethawing, then freezing again, etc.) Modest sheen gives "depth" to the appearance of logs (when used in conjunction with the Cascade clear topcoat). Capture Log Stain’s unique elastic formula allows it to move freely as your logs move, instead of cracking and peeling. Two heavy coats of Capture Log Stain are now recommended, especially for Autumn Aspen, Bronze Pine, Natural, Wheat, and other light colors. Capture also works well by itself as a one coat interior stain or can be top-coated with Symphony. Capture Log Stain and Cascade are compatible with other Sashco products like PeneTreat (Tim-bor), Conceal, Log Builder Caulking, and Log Jam Chinking. Made in the USA. 

Application Instructions 

1. Compatibility counts: If you are changing from one stain product to another, contact us first. Any product already on the wood that contains waxes, non-drying oils, or silicones can interfere with the adhesion of Capture® Log Stain, just like they interfere with the adhesion of chinking, sealants, and caulks. In these cases, Sashco’s Transformation Stain® Log & Timber will be the better choice. 

2. Clean the surface: Media blast, power wash, or sand wood surfaces using an Osborn ® * brush or 60-80 grit sand paper to remove failing stains, UV-damaged or unsound wood fibers, mill glaze, and other surface contaminants. This creates the best surface for stain adhesion and longevity. If mildew is present, apply Sashco’s CPR ® in the brightener strength according to the directions, or apply fresh bleach in a 4 parts water to 1 part bleach solution. Allow to sit no longer than 20 minutes, then thoroughly rinse to neutralize the cleaner and prevent degradation of the wood fibers. 

3. Remove fuzz: For the best appearance, remove felting (wood fuzz) with Osborn ® brushes, Sashco’s Buffy Pad system, or 60-80 grit sand paper once the wood is dry. Be sure to remove all sawdust once done. 

4. Timing matters: UV rays from the sun can damage cleaned wood surfaces in as little as 1 week, resulting in premature failure. Sun damaged wood turns yellow and eventually gray, so if you sand a piece of yellowish wood and it turns whiter, you know that wood has some sun damage; therefore, stain should be applied no more than 2 weeks after wood prep is complete. 

5. Apply Sashco’s Penetreat ® : For additional protection against rot and wood-ingesting insects, apply Penetreat® according to instructions. Allow the wood to dry a minimum of 2-4 days. (Use a moisture meter to check it!) 

6. Air and surface temperatures matter: To allow Capture® Log Stain to dry and adhere properly to the wood, apply the product when the forecast is predicting clear, rain-free and snow-free weather, with air and wood surface temperatures of 40° - 90°F (4° - 32°C) both during application and for the rest of the day after it has been applied. (This includes overnight temps!) If rain can’t be avoided, protect stained surfaces from direct rainfall for 1-2 days after application. Use a surface thermometer to check surface temps. 

7. Wood must be dry: Using a moisture meter, check the wood to make sure it’s at or below a 19% moisture content level before staining. Anything higher increases the risk of rot and/or peeling stain. 

8. Control surface mildew: To further enhance protection from mildew growth on the surface of the stain, and give added protection from mildew between maintenance coats of Cascade® , add in Stay Clean I/E® mildewcide to each pail of stain. 

9. Mix it up properly: Using a squirrel cage type mixer, thoroughly mix the stain, being sure to scrape all pigments off the bottom of the pail. Pails with different lot numbers should be blended together to ensure consistent color. Stir the stain every 10-15 minutes throughout application. 

10. Spray it on and back brush it in: Using a Graco ® 313 or 515 sprayer tip (or equivalent in a different brand), drench apply the first coat of Capture® Log Stain. Best long-term performance is achieved when the first coat is applied to the point of refusal (meaning the wood won’t accept any more stain). Follow behind immediately with vigorous back brushing using large 5-6 in. deck and siding paint brushes on 3-4 ft. long poles. This forces the stain into the pores of the wood and promotes penetration and adhesion. 

11. Spray it on again: Allow the first coat to completely dry (4-12 hours, depending on temperature and humidity), then apply a 2nd, lighter coat and brush out any runs. 

12. Seal it up: Spray on one heavy coat of Cascade® Clear Coat, brushing out any runs. Capture® Log Stain must be top coated with Cascade® for water-resistance and added UV protection.

 

Grand Rapids, Minnesota. 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