How to Refinish Log Cabins

Carefully inspect the structure. Use a stiff broom to remove accumulated soil, pollen and dust from the logs. Start at the top of the logs and work down. As you sweep, look for any signs of insect infestation, mildew or mold. Termites, a concern in warm and moist environments, love log homes. Contact a professional exterminator to treat the property prior to proceeding.

Pressure wash the logs, applying a commercial cleaning agent. Building supply centers offer pressure washers for rent. Apply cleaning agents following the product manufacturer's application directions. Use a low pressure (350 psi or less) when washing to avoid damaging the logs. Start to wash at the foundation level and work up. Rinse from the top of the logs downward. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry.

Blast the logs to remove deep, penetrating stains and old finishes. You can rent log-blasting equipment from log home restoration contractors or enlist their services for a professional quality job. Ground up corncobs, walnut husks, soda or sand, applied under pressure, gently exfoliates surface debris and peeling finishes. Final smoothing, accomplished by sanding, removes any remaining marks.

Repair or replace caulking as needed. You can chip out old cracked or flaking caulking with a small chisel and hammer. Use some of the old caulking to match with a new product. Caulking is available in a wide variety of colors and application methods.

Apply two coats of a petroleum-based penetrating sealer or sealer/stain combination. Apply with a wide nylon brush or air sprayer. Be sure to coat the ends of the logs. Logs ends act like a straw, sucking up moisture into the wood if not sealed properly.