Spring is the perfect time to give your log home the attention it deserves after a long winter. One of the most crucial parts of log home maintenance is proper staining and sealing. This not only enhances your home’s rustic beauty, but also protects it from the elements, pests, and long-term deterioration.
Learn more here about when to stain and seal your logs, how to do it right, and which products and professionals to trust with your investment.
Why Staining and Sealing Matters
Your logs are exposed to sun, rain, snow, wind, and humidity year-round. Without the right protection, they can:
- Crack and split from UV exposure
- Absorb moisture and grow mold or mildew
- Attract wood-boring insects
- Experience surface erosion and graying
Staining adds color and UV protection, while sealing locks out moisture—both essential to preserving the natural strength and appearance of your logs.
When to Stain and Seal Your Logs
Most log homes should be re-stained and sealed every 3 to 5 years, though high-exposure walls may need more frequent attention. Spring and early fall are ideal times to apply stain and sealant—temperatures are moderate, and humidity levels are more stable, allowing for better adhesion and curing.
Here are some signs it’s time to restain or reseal:
- Fading or peeling stain
- Water no longer beads on the surface
- Logs feel dry or rough
- Visible cracks or dark mildew spots
How to Properly Stain and Seal Your Log Home
Step 1: Inspect and Prep
Start by walking around your home to inspect for damage, mildew, or problem areas. Clean the surface with a log wash product and remove any old, flaking stain. You may need to media blast or sand the logs for best results.
Step 2: Choose the Right Products
Not all stains and sealants are created equal. We recommend Sashco’s premium products, known for their durability, flexibility, and log-specific formulas.
Check out Sashco’s stain and sealant line here, including:
- Capture Log Stain – Flexible, breathable, and long-lasting
- Cascade Clear Coat – Adds an extra layer of UV and moisture defense
- Log Jam Chinking – Seals gaps with flexibility and strength
Step 3: Apply Carefully
Apply stain evenly with a sprayer followed by back-brushing for penetration. Let it dry completely before applying a clear coat or sealant. Be sure to follow the product’s temperature and humidity guidelines for best results.
Step 4: Maintain Regularly
Touch up high-exposure areas annually and wash your logs each spring to prevent mildew. This simple habit can extend the life of your stain and sealant.
Not a DIYer? Call the Experts.
If you’re not ready to take on this project yourself, hire seasoned pros like our team at 888 Log Guys—we pride ourselves on being the most trusted log home service companies in the country. We specializes in:
- Log home staining and sealing
- Media blasting and restoration
- Log replacement and repair
We use high-quality products (including Sashco) and tailor every job to your home’s specific needs.
Protect Your Investment
Your log home isn’t just a structure—it’s a lifestyle and a legacy. By staining and sealing it properly (and on time), you’re protecting its beauty and structural integrity for years to come.
Whether you’re DIYing or calling in the pros, spring is the season to give your logs the love they need.
Ready to get started?
Visit us at 888 Log Guys for a free consultation, and explore Sashco’s full line of log home products to find the perfect match for your home’s needs.
