Log Finish Questions

[Rick]

We are considering a product called Outlast Q8 Log Oil for the exterior finish on logs we are using in our cabin. Does anyone have any experience with this? We've heard they use "log oil" in Montana that comes in 35 gallon drums, but can't find any info on this.

For the interior, we plan to use a log caulk and a clear, water-based finish. We have the Schroeder's Log Home Catalog (www.loghelp.com) and have spoken with them. Nice folks, by the way.

Ann and Rick

[glenn amolenaar]

Rick,
You are on the right track the exclusive loghome finishes are the best a little pricesy but good, stick with a loghome company like Schroders. Sherwin -Williams has a wood finish forget it.
Good luck Glenn

[solar]

I haven't used it but my neighbor who chinks log homes says it's good but some people don't like it because it darkens the logs a little. Pressure wash before applying.
The trend is towards high tech water based coatings which ain't worth spit.

[Mark Twain]

I use a oil based stain called Woodiron and I have been extremely happy with the performance of the product. It is specifically made for log homes and is great at UV protection but it is expensive about $50.00 a gallon.
When I bought my log home it had been treated with some water based junk that didn't last. The house was only six years old but the logs were so sunburned that I had to sand down all of the logs on the south and east side.
After hot power washing all the remaining old finish off I swore I would only put on a product that did not have to be stripped off but only stained over.

I did re-stain the south side after four years although it could have gone a couple more and the other sides will probable make it 8 to 10 years before I will have to treat them. I even use it on my decks and can go three years between staining.
Its really good stuff but boy does it stink... lots of distillates.

[Yvonne's hubby]

I havent used any treatment at all on my logs. They turned a nice silvery gray the first couple years after I put them up. That was 10 years ago and they look great.




On the inside I used a coat of light stain, then a coat of polyurethane, I used same stuff on the walls, floors and ceilings.







But they look best when coated with a layer of good friends and music.

[Rick]

Thanks all.
We're still scrubbing with TSP, bleach and borax solution, and then sanding.

Glad to see no bad reviews.

Murphy, I like your method!