Weather protection can go a long way in preserving the beauty and longevity of log cabins. The key to a long-standing solid log cabin is shielding the exterior of the log cabin from brutal UV rays and moisture. In addition, the right log cabin stain will enhance the natural beauty of the logs to give your cabin that sought after rustic appeal.
The best TWP Stain for log cabins is the newly formulated TWP 1500 Series. This particular stain product is intended to perform better than the original formula known as Series 500. The outperforming version 1500 Series Stain uses a low VOC blend that is compliant in all 50 states and is registered as an EPA wood preservative.
What makes TWP 1500 the best TWP stain for log cabins is its exceptional water repelling abilities that help prevent log cracking, splitting, and warping. In addition, its 60-70 percent solid pigment blend penetrates deep into the wood’s pores creating an adequate shield against graying and fading.
TWP 1500 is perfect for log cabins as it revitalizes the logs by replacing their dwindling natural oils and enhances the log cabin’s overall appearance. 1500 Total Wood Preservative has distinct mildewcides that discourage the growth of mold and mildew spores, which can cause log rot and decay.
The 1500 Series Stain will give your log cabin the brilliant finish it deserves. It is offered in a variety of colors to meet your needs. This easy to apply formula offers user friendly maintenance that will have your log cabin looking good year round while keeping annoying maintenance costs down. The TWP 1500 Series Stain is sincerely the best TWP stain for log cabins and is available from your official online TWP dealer.
If you have a question, Please Ask Below!
We live in the White Mtns in AZ and have had Superdeck “Golden Honey” applied to our cabin 3 times in the last 11 years. From what I’ve been reading, in order to use TWP 1500 it seems like we need to strip the wood first. Is this so and if it is, what do we use to strip the log siding? Restore A Deck Stripper? Also, is TWP a glossy finish? Semi glossy? I would prefer a glossy finish.
Yes, you will need to strip:
https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
TWP is not glossy. Gloss finishes will peel on exterior wood. TWP is penetrating with no shine.
Is the deck stripper you recommend safe for landscapes and plants, grass, and flowers.
Yes, but always rinse well when done to remove soap residue, dirt, and grime when done from the plants.
I bought a log cabin about a year ago and I have really noticed that it has a lot of black mold and the cabin desperately needs to be stripped and redone as it looks very dry. Do I pressure wash or use a cleaner and stripper first? How do I deal with the chinking that is there now? The previous owner has used the 1500 series Cedartone. Thank you for your help.
Use the Restore A Deck Stripper and brightener kit for the prep: https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
Stain around the chinking when you reapply.
its been 5 years sense I stained logs with clear flood stain. Logs look good but need to be restained. fading and dry somewhat. what kind of twp stain would be the best to use.
Hello,
You will need to remove the Flood if you want to switch brands of stain. Best to strip and brighten for the prep with Restore A Deck Stripper and Brightening Kits:
https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
Restain with the TWP 1500 Series:
https://www.twpstain.com/twp-1500-series
I used Weatherseal about 3-4 years ago. I would like to use TWP 1500. Would I have to completely strip the old stain before using TWP? I do not understand why this is always the standard answer. I would think if you are using an oil stain on top of another oil based product it would be kosher.
Yes, you will need to fully remove the old coating for it to work correctly. The TWP is a penetrating oil and any previous coating could prevent it from soaking in and properly curing.
Prepping correctly is the number one key to stain longevity and performance. In addition, stain stripping is not that hard if done correctly with the right product.
[quote name=”george Penick”]log cabin ready for stain- used FLOOD UV5 about 5 yrs ago, plan to lightly wash it with diluted bleach water/rinse. You say your 1500 is best, I know the solids stain last longest, but like the semi look, so what do you suggest for a middle ground? how long can I expect yours to last in mts of western NC?[/quote]
The 1500 is a semi-transparent stain. You will need to remove the Flood fully and that will require more than Bleach. Use the Restore a Dec Stripper Kit:
https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
Should last about 4-6 years for the log cabin, possibly longer depending on UV exposure.
log cabin ready for stain- used FLOOD UV5 about 5 yrs ago, plan to lightly wash it with diluted bleach water/rinse. You say your 1500 is best, I know the solids stain last longest, but like the semi look, so what do you suggest for a middle ground? how long can I expect yours to last in mts of western NC?
[quote name=”JC22″]Hello, we recently re-coated our cypress log home with 101 (the is the first re-coat since stripping and applying 101 a few years back). 2 questions:
1. I wanted a darker caramel color on this re-coat and with that on my mind I think I inadvertently put the coat on too thick — its a bit glossy after drying and feels like there is a film built up on the log. What, if anything, should be done about this?
2. The color did darken slightly, but came out very orange. It looks OK, but in the future we would like to re-coat with 120 to try to knock down the orange and bring out some brown. In light of this thick coat i just put on, how long might i have to wait to put to on the pecan? Several years again or could i get away with it sooner to get it more towards the color we want.
Thanks![/quote]
1. Leave it alone at this point. You will have to strip and remove when you redo in the future.
2. You can redo when you want but as I mentioned, the previous coating will need to come off due to over application. Use this:
https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
Hello, we recently re-coated our cypress log home with 101 (the is the first re-coat since stripping and applying 101 a few years back). 2 questions:
1. I wanted a darker caramel color on this re-coat and with that on my mind I think I inadvertently put the coat on too thick — its a bit glossy after drying and feels like there is a film built up on the log. What, if anything, should be done about this?
2. The color did darken slightly, but came out very orange. It looks OK, but in the future we would like to re-coat with 120 to try to knock down the orange and bring out some brown. In light of this thick coat i just put on, how long might i have to wait to put to on the pecan? Several years again or could i get away with it sooner to get it more towards the color we want.
Thanks!
[quote name=”Charlotte Sweet”]I am getting ready to re-stain my log cabin and while looking to order the same twp stain as use originally 7 years ago I am also looking for if possible a caulk that could be used prior to staining the cabin that would then take on the stain. If not then I will have to look at a matching caulk to use in filling in areas where the logs have shrunk and need to be filled in.
Thanks[/quote]
You will need a matching caulk as the TWP will not “stain” caulk to blend.
I am getting ready to re-stain my log cabin and while looking to order the same twp stain as use originally 7 years ago I am also looking for if possible a caulk that could be used prior to staining the cabin that would then take on the stain. If not then I will have to look at a matching caulk to use in filling in areas where the logs have shrunk and need to be filled in.
Thanks
[quote name=”Walter DeWolf”]Once upon a time (fifteen years ago), I lived in a log home. Every few years I would treat the exterior with an oil-based, non-hardening stain. It came in a 5-gal bucket to which I would add a quart (I think) of pigment. After applying the stain, the oils would soak in leaving the pigment on the surface. For a period of time following application, if you accidentally brushed up against the house, some of the pigment would come off on your clothes/body. I don’t remember the brand name of the stain. Is yours something like that? I recently installed a post and board fence on my property and was thinking that something like what I used on the log home might be good to use. What do you think? Thank you.[/quote]
Our stain soaks in and cures fully so there is no rub off.
Once upon a time (fifteen years ago), I lived in a log home. Every few years I would treat the exterior with an oil-based, non-hardening stain. It came in a 5-gal bucket to which I would add a quart (I think) of pigment. After applying the stain, the oils would soak in leaving the pigment on the surface. For a period of time following application, if you accidentally brushed up against the house, some of the pigment would come off on your clothes/body. I don’t remember the brand name of the stain. Is yours something like that? I recently installed a post and board fence on my property and was thinking that something like what I used on the log home might be good to use. What do you think? Thank you.
[quote name=”Joyce McClain”]We own a 2-year old oak log home, built by Gastineau Log Homes, New Bloomfield, MO. As per instructions by Gastineau, the exterior logs were stained and sealed (first 2 poorly applied coats in late 2013 – possibly sprayed on) TWP 101 Cedar Tone. Because of the poor coverage, in the fall of 2014, we hired a painting contractor that we have used for decades, who brushed on TWP 101 CedarTone on the exterior — cabin looked fabulous! The cabin in on our farm property, all grassland on the acreage surrounding the cabin. The porch floors, and exterior logs need an additional coat. I am considering moving to the 1500 series – I am not convinced that TWP 101 is giving us the best coverage. Your suggestion would be appreciated. Is there a sealant that does not include a stain for the north and south walls where the color is still good – south and west walls need the stain and sealant in my opinion. A reply by phone would be GREAT! 636-441-0121[/quote]
You cannot add a clear sealer over the tinted 101 Cedartone stain. If you want to try the 1500 Series, look at the 1530 natural as it is the closest in color to the 101. Make sure that you clean and prep first.
We own a 2-year old oak log home, built by Gastineau Log Homes, New Bloomfield, MO. As per instructions by Gastineau, the exterior logs were stained and sealed (first 2 poorly applied coats in late 2013 – possibly sprayed on) TWP 101 Cedar Tone. Because of the poor coverage, in the fall of 2014, we hired a painting contractor that we have used for decades, who brushed on TWP 101 CedarTone on the exterior — cabin looked fabulous! The cabin in on our farm property, all grassland on the acreage surrounding the cabin. The porch floors, and exterior logs need an additional coat. I am considering moving to the 1500 series – I am not convinced that TWP 101 is giving us the best coverage. Your suggestion would be appreciated. Is there a sealant that does not include a stain for the north and south walls where the color is still good – south and west walls need the stain and sealant in my opinion. A reply by phone would be GREAT! 636-441-0121
[quote name=”PollyVan”]Which chinking products are recommended for use with oil based stains like TWP? Is Perma Chink ok to use?[/quote]
It would be best to ask the company that makes the chinking to be sure it works with oil based stains.
Which chinking products are recommended for use with oil based stains like TWP? Is Perma Chink ok to use?
[quote name=”AndyL”]I an sanding the varnish off my 90 year old cabin and intend to use TWP 1500 to treat the logs. What chinking product can I use that is compatible with TWP?[/quote]
Any chinking that is compatible with oil based stains like TWP should work.
I an sanding the varnish off my 90 year old cabin and intend to use TWP 1500 to treat the logs. What chinking product can I use that is compatible with TWP?
[quote name=”Ray Raines”]I bought a log cabin a few years ago and now it needs to be restrained. It was stained with twp 301. I read that lightly sanding before pressure washing was the best way to prep. Do you agree?[/quote]
No need to sand. Pressure wash using the Gemini Restore kit.
I bought a log cabin a few years ago and now it needs to be restrained. It was stained with twp 301. I read that lightly sanding before pressure washing was the best way to prep. Do you agree?
[quote name=”Stephen Relien”]I have some mold where water hit some logs since I painted last — do you have a product that will remove the stains, or should I just paint over them?[/quote]
The Gemini Restore Kit will help to prep the wood and remove any mold.
I have some mold where water hit some logs since I painted last — do you have a product that will remove the stains, or should I just paint over them?
[quote name=”Harold Oliver”]Could help me estimate the amount of stain to order.
1. 2400 sq ft of milled logs for cabin walls.
Constructed last summer this will be the initial staining.
2. 2100 sq ft of exterior wood plywood siding used for shutters, facia, eaves etc.
3. 100 ft of 3 ft high deck rails plus 125 ft of logs used for supports etc. on deck.
I will be spraying but have not obtained the equipment yet. Although brushing the deck railing is an option.[/quote]
Sounds like you have about 5000 sq. feet total. You will need about 25-30 gallons for 1 coat. You will also need to prep all wood first. Using the Gemini Restore Kit and pressure washing is the beast way to prep. You would need about 5-6 of the kits.
Could help me estimate the amount of stain to order.
1. 2400 sq ft of milled logs for cabin walls.
Constructed last summer this will be the initial staining.
2. 2100 sq ft of exterior wood plywood siding used for shutters, facia, eaves etc.
3. 100 ft of 3 ft high deck rails plus 125 ft of logs used for supports etc. on deck.
I will be spraying but have not obtained the equipment yet. Although brushing the deck railing is an option.
[quote name=”Harold Oliver”]I am building a cabin with mill logs and will be adding a composite deck (trex or other)
Do you have a suggestion on staining so that I can stain the whole cabin at once and not wait to add the deck until after staining the cabin.[/quote]
I am not sure what you mean. You can stain the log cabin a few months after being built as it needs to season. You then prep with the Gemini Restore Kit before staining to help remove mill glaze and any oxidation, etc. If the deck is in already, then make sure it is trapped well so the stain does not get on it.
[quote name=”Harold Oliver”]Do you have a log home quantity calculator.
I get a deck calculator on the web pape[/quote]
No we do not. If you figure out your total sq. footage of the siding, then we can give you an idea as to the amount needed.
I am building a cabin with mill logs and will be adding a composite deck (trex or other)
Do you have a suggestion on staining so that I can stain the whole cabin at once and not wait to add the deck until after staining the cabin.
[quote name=”Emmsgugliotta”]I am interested in staining a brand new swing set made of northern white cedar to prevent graying and to provide waterproofing.
I am between your product (1500 series) and sikkens.
What would be the best color to maintain wood’s natural characteristics without adding too much color? Do you have any comments on your product vs. sikkens?
Set will be in shaded area near water source in VA.[/quote]
Please read this about new wood:
http://www.twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
The TWP 1515 Honeytone is the lightest tint. TWP is a registered wood preservative by the EPA. Sikkens is not.
I am interested in staining a brand new swing set made of northern white cedar to prevent graying and to provide waterproofing.
I am between your product (1500 series) and sikkens.
What would be the best color to maintain wood’s natural characteristics without adding too much color? Do you have any comments on your product vs. sikkens?
Set will be in shaded area near water source in VA.
[quote name=”Peggy George”]I am residing my home in cedar . What would be the best stain to use? I would like to keep it clear if possible.[/quote]
Use the TWP 1500 Series.
I am residing my home in cedar . What would be the best stain to use? I would like to keep it clear if possible.
[quote name=”Lucia Sander”]We are currently having a log home built in New York State. The logs have not been kiln dried. We are wondering when we should apply the TWP 1500; at what percent of moisture in the logs.
Please advise. Thank you.[/quote]
12% or less but you still need to let the wood season outside for 1-2 months and prep first to remove mill glaze with the Gemini Restore Kit.
We are currently having a log home built in New York State. The logs have not been kiln dried. We are wondering when we should apply the TWP 1500; at what percent of moisture in the logs.
Please advise. Thank you.
You can go darker without stripping but make sure to prep with the Gemini Restore Kit and pressure washing.
Our log cabin is treated/maintained with TWL 100 cedar tone. We would like to darken the color of the house — is it possible to clean and apply TWP 100 Rustic tone over the cedar tone or would I need to strip the house?
[quote name=”mlinarz”]We stained our deck last year with TWP 100 Series stain. The deck butts up next to our house. I have a couple of questions.
1. Home has smooth pine siding. Haven’t stained it since we owned it (3 years) and we don’t know previous owners, or what the prior stain was. It is transparent, and likely hasn’t been stained in over 7 years. Will we need to strip completely, or can we test it first for compatibility with staining directly after cleaning?
2. If we strip, I assume the runoff will also strip stain on the deck? Whats the best way to prevent this ancillary damage?
Thanks![/quote]
1. TWP cannot be applied over a stain of a different brand.
2. You cannot prevent the stripper from removing the deck stain. Maybe wait until next year when the deck will need it and do both at the same time.
We stained our deck last year with TWP 100 Series stain. The deck butts up next to our house. I have a couple of questions.
1. Home has smooth pine siding. Haven’t stained it since we owned it (3 years) and we don’t know previous owners, or what the prior stain was. It is transparent, and likely hasn’t been stained in over 7 years. Will we need to strip completely, or can we test it first for compatibility with staining directly after cleaning?
2. If we strip, I assume the runoff will also strip stain on the deck? Whats the best way to prevent this ancillary damage?
Thanks!
[quote name=”julie mclaughlin”]Is TWP 1500 a matte or satin finish when it dries?[/quote]
TWP is not supposed to be shiny at all.
Is TWP 1500 a matte or satin finish when it dries?
[quote name=”Terry Vincent”]What product would you recommend to use to clean up weathered and discolored logs prior to staining them with the TWP 1500? I have used TWP in the past but it has been several years. I live in the Monterey Bay region of central CA about 4 miles from the ocean.[/quote]
Prep with the Gemini Restore Kit and pressure washing to restore the wood before applying the TWP 1500.
What product would you recommend to use to clean up weathered and discolored logs prior to staining them with the TWP 1500? I have used TWP in the past but it has been several years. I live in the Monterey Bay region of central CA about 4 miles from the ocean.
[quote name=”JimD”][quote name=”TheSealerStore”][quote name=”JimD”]I plan to treat my log cabin and deck.
Both are located in northern Wisconsin.
According to this page, you recommend TWP 1500 for log homes. Can I also use 1500 for the surrounding deck?
Also, just to be clear, TWP 1500 and TWP 100 are oil based and don’t create a film on top of the log, rather, they soak into the wood, correct?[/quote]
Yes they are both penetrating oil based stains. You can use the 1500 for both the cabin and the deck.[/quote]
Is 1500 the recommended product for decks in northern Wisconsin? I can definitely use different products for the cabin and deck if it would last longer.[/quote]
You can use either for the deck. Both 1500 and 100 will last about the same for a horizontal surface.
[quote name=”TheSealerStore”][quote name=”JimD”]I plan to treat my log cabin and deck.
Both are located in northern Wisconsin.
According to this page, you recommend TWP 1500 for log homes. Can I also use 1500 for the surrounding deck?
Also, just to be clear, TWP 1500 and TWP 100 are oil based and don’t create a film on top of the log, rather, they soak into the wood, correct?[/quote]
Yes they are both penetrating oil based stains. You can use the 1500 for both the cabin and the deck.[/quote]
Is 1500 the recommended product for decks in northern Wisconsin? I can definitely use different products for the cabin and deck if it would last longer.
[quote name=”JimD”]I plan to treat my log cabin and deck.
Both are located in northern Wisconsin.
According to this page, you recommend TWP 1500 for log homes. Can I also use 1500 for the surrounding deck?
Also, just to be clear, TWP 1500 and TWP 100 are oil based and don’t create a film on top of the log, rather, they soak into the wood, correct?[/quote]
Yes they are both penetrating oil based stains. You can use the 1500 for both the cabin and the deck.
I plan to treat my log cabin and deck.
Both are located in northern Wisconsin.
According to this page, you recommend TWP 1500 for log homes. Can I also use 1500 for the surrounding deck?
Also, just to be clear, TWP 1500 and TWP 100 are oil based and don’t create a film on top of the log, rather, they soak into the wood, correct?
[quote name=”Joann larsson”]Hi I need to restrain my log house ,it’s been a few years since the last time. We used sickins stain ( clear) last time , can your product be applied over old stain ? The house will be power washed before , will we have to sand the house also ?
Please advise
Thank you.[/quote]
You cannot apply TWP over a stain of a different brand. Best to remove the Sikkens first.
Hi I need to restrain my log house ,it’s been a few years since the last time. We used sickins stain ( clear) last time , can your product be applied over old stain ? The house will be power washed before , will we have to sand the house also ?
Please advise
Thank you.
[quote name=”duanneg”]Can I apply series 1500 over the existing series 100 Ive been using on my log cabin?[/quote]
As long as you prep first with the Gemini Kit and pressure washing.
Can I apply series 1500 over the existing series 100 Ive been using on my log cabin?