An online (log home) community for log home enthusiasts.

Staining interior/exterior

I am about 5 weeks away from staining the exterior of my log home. I have been told not to stain the inside until at least one heating season goes by. Is this true? I want to stain right of way on the exterior but how about the inside should I use clear or use stain?

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Permalink Reply by Brent Nelson on July 23, 2008 at 12:31pm: Ray,
I'm building a log home now and I'm under roof. My contractor washed and bleached the interior logs back in June and we are still waiting for the logs to dry to apply clear coat. To much humidity up here in Maryland. Moisture content, in the logs, has been above 20% and must be below 15 to apply the clear coat. If not, the clear coat will trap moisture and the logs will cloud up under the clear coat. Just be aware of this if you bleach and clean the interior walls.

Not sure about the "one heating season" that you mention. I do know that the first season of heating, the logs will check and crack. This is inherent in log cabin construction and if you don't like checking....then you won't like a log home.; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by Terry Tadysak on October 5, 2008 at 10:29pm: I would not recommend 'bleaching' logs. Bleach can damage the wood fiber surface. See my suggestions on wood prep by providing me with your e-mail address and I will send you some suggestions. Beware of any product that 'clear coats' your exterior logs ! You want a penetrating stain that allows the logs to breathe after staining. Oil based stains will want less then 15 % moisture content for best results. Buy a 35.00 moisture meter from Harbor Freight Tools and test your logs. If you are not getting to 15% or lower in moisture level perhaps youyr roof over hang design is allowing too much rain to wet your logs during rain fall. if your overhang is little you may need to shield the logs with plastic to bring the moisture levels down. The plastic should not be in contact with the logs further trapping moisture.; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by Terry Tadysak on October 5, 2008 at 9:34pm: Please provide me with your e-mail address and I will send you my 'How to do' sheet on my suggestions. The exterior staining will be the most important choice. I can also give you some sound suggestions 9 and photos to show you the results ) for interior stains and varnishes.; ▶ Reply to This

Permalink Reply by Terry Tadysak on October 5, 2008 at 10:50pm: It depends on the product you are using, the moisture level and if the interior is heated at this time. I have a sheet I prepared for 'How to do' instructions if you are interseted. I can send to your e-mail adress if yor provide that to me.
Tadysak@habush.com; ▶ Reply to This