In our last blog we spoke about the refinishing of log homes. This time lets look at Big Bear homes that have a semi transparent or semi solid stain.
Most painting contractors will treat this type of home like a log home. First the contractor
(or you if you desire to tackle your home on your own) should always pressure wash the home, and use a mild cleaning solution for natural wood finishes. Pressure washing will remove most debris such as pollen, sap and dirt.
Always read the directions as most will recomend to wet the surface first. Be sure to try to work in the shade and out of direct sunlight as material tends to dry sometimes faster then you might want.
Once the surface is wet, use a medium coarse nylon brush and scrub the cleaning solution into wood surface. Work in small sections at a time and rinse immediately after section is scrubbed. If you leave the cleaning solution on to long you may have areas of inconsistency where the product may loosen and eat through the stain on house. So work fast and be careful.
Allow home to dry several days before any work is done. If you have a moisture reader for wood that would be great. Next determine what type of sand paper should be used or a wire brush. When sanding or using a wire brush always sand with the grain of the wood and remove all loose stain from surface. When sanding is completed it is important again to clean all surfaces to remove debris left from sanding. Before any stain is applied cover all areas around where the new stains are to be applied. Semi transparent stains tend to be very messy. If using painters drop cloths make sure they are the thicker canvas drops and it is always a good idea to use plastic under the drops. When applying this material you can use a airless and/or brush and rollers. Working with oil base stains and /or water base stains always follow the directions as the application May vary. One thing to remember is that multiple coats of semi transparent stains will eventually turn to a solid and the grain of wood will be lost. What i often do is apply one coat of stain to restore color to home then apply two coats of a clear sealer. By doing this the clear coat will protect the color underneath. When the clear coat begins to fail after a couple of years it will appear to look dry. It is at this time another coat of clear can be applied, the color underneath will then become vibrant once again.
By doing this you reduce the possibility of multiple areas of the house having uneven spots. Remember to use compatible materials together, this will ensure longevity within your finishing of home. And if that seems like a little to much to take on as a homeowner call us for all of your complete painting needs. One of the most important things working with stains is that all rags used must find there way to a container filled with water. These rags will catch fire so please use extreme caution. When you are done with a rag it goes in the bucket of water.
Thanks again Kenny Washabaugh
Kenny’s Painting
(951) 264-8140
