Preparation of the logs is as important as the staining itself, especially the first time a home is coated.  Proper preparation can strongly determine the stain's longevity and effectiveness.

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.

Cleaning Directions

Sashco recommends using their product, CPR cleaning solution to clean your logs.  (CPR is brushed on, allowed to sit and power washed clean. )  As with the tsp/bleach formula, it is essential that the cleaning solution is thoroughly rinsed off and the logs are allowed to dry before the stain is applied.