Stains & Supplies

1.First, clean the wood thoroughly by using water to remove any dirt or mill glaze. A pressure washer works best if set at no more than 500-1000 PSI and is at least one foot away from the log surface.
2.After wetting the entire surface, use a solution of 2 oz. powdered Tri-Sodium Phosphate (TSP), 1 quart household bleach and 3 quarts water that is applied with a garden pump sprayer. To avoid streaking, apply this mixture from the bottom to the top of the wall.
3.Next, let the TSP bleach/water solution sit on the wood for approximately 10-15 minutes, depending upon the severity of the discoloration. It is advised to keep the surface wet and use a bristled brush to lightly scrub any mold or mildew that may remain on the logs.
4.Remove the solution by using a pressure washer (set at 500-1000 PSI) and starting from the top of the wall, again keeping it at least one foot from the surface.
5.Allow 3-5 days to completely dry before applying any stains or sealants.

Carefully inspect logs for defects, deterioration or insect damage. Make appropriate repairs where necessary.

• Clean logs with ammonia/water or alcohol/water solution to remove all dirt, debris, oil or previous chinking. DO NOT clean with petroleum distillates or detergents – they leave a residue that interferes with adhesion.

• Follow stain manufacturer’s instructions prior to chinking. Make sure that your stain is compatible with the chinking you choose. Some coating use oils which may be non-drying and can lead to adhesion problems.

• Make sure that the wood coating has fully cured and is free of oil residue or wax before applying chinking.

• Check the weather forecast. Chinking is best applied in dry, warm weather and also when there is no threat of rain. The more humidity that is present, the longer the cure time.

• Only apply chinking when the wood surface temperature is between 40º F and 90º F and when no frost is present. To avoid blistering, do not apply the chinking in direct sunlight and try to keep it sheltered from the sun for 1-2 days.

• Chinking will perform better if the product is stored at room temperature and kept warm. If the product gets too cold it will not tool as well.

• Install a bond breaker such as mylar tape, backer board or backer rod, depending on the chink joint to make sure there is a proper 2-point adhesion.

• Above all, follow the manufacturer’s instructions closely! Most chinking products have a warranty, but chinking must by applied according to the manufacturer’s guidelines to be valid.