Hello my name is Kenny Washabaugh and the owner of Kenny’s painting serving the Big Bear Valley and all of Southern California. I was asked by The Rahill Real Estate Group to share on the art of refinishing log homes here in The Big Bear Valley, and how to find a reputable painting contractor.
First the contractor you hire should be licensed, insured, bonded, and is recommended highly from the local paint stores. Check and make sure they have workmen’s comp on all employees. If they are offended by the request move on. The contractor should then be able to determine what product was used prior. Was it a water base, oil base or log oil finish? This is important as it will determine how to prep the surface correctly. If weather and temperatures permit, pressure washing and scrubbing house with a med course level nylon brush and a log home cleaning solution works great to remove built up debris such as dust, pollens and pitch from trees. You do NOT sand first, as all these contaminates will then be embedded into the surface and weaken the bond of the new material used. Allow the home to dry from water for a few days, again depending on weather and temps. In some cases this is all it needs and the house is ready for finish material to be applied.
In other cases this is only the beginning. Most homes will then need to be thoroughly sanded and cleaned using an array of different methods. The preparation is always the key to a great job and ensuring the longevity of the products used! Assuming you hire a painting contractor one should always then clean thoroughly and mask everything you don’t want covered in a oil or water base film due to overspray. Most contractors will use an airless to apply material and then brush as they go. The number of coats is to be determined by products used and the desired look to be achieved. Building the finish material to a shine is not always the best thing to do. Read the directions on the cans and make sure your contractor can read as well. The directions are there for your protection. Stay connected for more helpful hints for painting in the mountains from people you can trust!
Kenny’s Painting
(951) 264-8140
