Staining Log Homes

[wenzel_777]

For those who have stained their log homes, how often does one need to reapply? Does this depend on pine species? Also, using the butt & pass building method, one doesn't peel deep into the logs like handcrafters/kit builders, etc.,. Does this result in more or less frequent staining? Much appreciated.

[rocklock]

I think there is some confusion about these terms. Many log treatments have a two or three part application requirement of which staining is just one part.
There are few products that just have one coat for logs. Logs must have this weird requirement to be protective but still be able to be porous enough to not trap water. Anything that traps water will cause rot...Period.
Also, just to make thing more complected the logs face different directions and the sun will cause big problems to various coats of stuff...
Many will solve this problem by just building a big overhanging roof and not doing anything to the logs. Letting them age is not a solution that I care for. Rustic is not an option for me.
Hence I will use a very light stain (in oil that will not seal but will preserve and protect) that has a bunch of UV inhibitors and apply two coats that require brushing to inbed the oil (and a bunch of stuff) into the log. The provider that I will use also has an over coat that they recommend to apply every 3 or 4 years. From viewing a log home near to me, I think I will not over coat ever... if I do the job correctly.

So, some stain their logs. Every time you apply another coat of stain, the logs will become darker. Deep pealing of logs does not make sense to me. The ring layers of the log provide a natural protective barrier that if destroyed weaken the log. I believe frequency of staining is more dependent on the owners preference and the quality of the first application.

[wenzel_777]

Appreciate the long response & explanation. I've noticed that many of the student built homes have that rustic, natural look to the logs, while others have colored. I was a bit curious looking at some of the older homes built by students. Many of the logs look extremely dark, as if they were coated with stain over many years. Quite a novice when it comes to logs & construction.