Stains and Sealants Protect Your Log Home
A log home needs protection in the same way that a clapboard home needs protection – through sealing the wood. Unsealed wood absorbs moisture, allows the growth of mold and bacteria, and allows critters to use the wood as a home. Unsealed wood follows the path nature laid out for it, that of composting. For a stick built home with clapboard siding, paint seals the wood and stops (or at least slows down) this natural process. For a log home, stain or a sealant preforms the same function.
Which one should you choose?
That is a matter of preference. There are many stain colors available. From light colors, to reds, to browns – it is a matter of color preference. Some people choose to use a clear sealant in order to allow the natural look, and beauty of the logs, to take center stage.
Oils are also available to treat the wood while keeping the natural luster.
Most stains for log homes are water based, and while there are oil based stains out there, we choose water based products because we feel they provide the best look and best value for the money.
Using the wrong stain, or having stain applied incorrectly, can cause more damage than not treating the logs at all. The wrong type of stain, bad application, or paint can trap moisture in the log leading to rot.
