New Log Homes

Lifeline Application and Maintenance Recommendations

Mill Glaze:  A typical log surface is coated with "mill glaze"- the hard, smooth film that forms on the surface of wood when leftover tree resins and sugars are acted upon by the mechanical and heat energy from the milling process.  This layer of glaze can be almost impenetrable for a coating.  It must be removed before good penetration and adhesion can occur. 

The best methods for removing mill glaze are corn cob media blasting, direct sanding or aggressively power-washing logs with high-pressure water.  These processes will not only remove the surface glaze, they also help roughen the surface for a better coating bond.

1.  All forms of dirt, mildew and mill glaze should be removed prior to the application of any preservative, stain or finish. To effective remove these, a solution of 4 oz. of Tri Sodium Phosphate (TSP) should be added to a mixture of 3 quarts of water plus 1 quart of household bleach.  After mixing, apply to the wood surface of the home starting at the bottom first.  Allow this mixture to stay on for 15-20 minutes and then thoroughly rinse off with a low power pressure washer rated at 500-700 psi.  Take care not to damage the wood surfaces.  Do not allow this to dry on the wood.  It is essential to thoroughly rinse the bleach mixture from the wood.

2.  While the wood is still wet, apply the Armor-Guard preservative included in your Tennessee Log Home package as per the label directions. (Mix 1 pound of Armor-Guard in 1 gallon of water).  Apply this solution to all accessible surfaces of bare wood at a rate of approximately 5 gallons per 1000 sp/ ft.  (This mixture should be applied after the roof is on the home.)

3.  Allow the preservative to dry 2-3 days.  Any white powdery residue left on the surface should be removed prior to continuing.  Removal is accomplished by washing the powder off with a damp sponge or rag.

4.  Apply the first of Classic Lifeline using an airless spray, and back brush to remove any runs or drips.  Back brushing insures even coats and coverage.  The second coat may be applied directly behind the first coat.  On smooth wood coverage rates will be between 350-500 sq. ft. per gallon on the first coat.  The following coat will normally require 40% less material.  NOTE:  If you are using Lifeline Ultra-1, it requires only one color coat.

5.  Once the Lifeline Classic has dried, the Proguard top coat may be applied.  For proper performance, the Proguard should be applied very thin, at a rate of 600-800 sq. ft. per gallon.  Do Not build heavy, shiny coats as it may result in poor performance.

Maintenance

A regular maintenance schedule is very prudent to keep your home looking good, and offers the best protection.  Pay close attention to the South and West sides of your home, as most effects from weather will show up there first.  It may be necessary to re-apply the finish, or topcoat only to these sides.  As different exposures pose different results, it is very difficult to place a time limit on low long your stain or finish will last.  The best procedure to maintain your home is through a regular inspection and maintenance program.