Preparing Your Surface

Start with a clean surface

Surface preparation matters. Wood must be clean, dry, and free of dirt, wax, grease, soot, loose or peeling stain, paint, mold, and mildew. Skipping preparation can lead to premature failure and rework.

Warmer temperatures are preferred. The ideal application range is 50°F to 90°F.

When stripping is needed

Stripping is not always required. Consider it when a film remains after power washing, old paint or varnish has built up, peeling or cracking finishes will not wash away, or the wood has a glazed finish.

If the old finish is latex or acrylic based, make sure the stripper is designed for it. Many strippers work on oil-based stains and paints but not latex. You can often skip stripping on bare wood, a penetrating finish, or an existing finish that removes easily.

Areas that need attention

Log homes commonly collect dirt along upper log curves. Homes without gutters or nearby vegetation can develop heavier discoloration near the bottom from rain splash. Corners receive more weather abuse and generally need more preparation.

Sun exposure can gray wood. These conditions can be corrected with the right cleaning and preparation process.

Cleaning recommendations

Bleach and water can appear quick and inexpensive, but bleaching may damage wood fibers, affect the wood’s ability to hold a finish, discolor the surface, and be difficult to rinse thoroughly.

For stripping to bare wood, use LikNuWood HD Concentrate, followed by LikNuWood Sodium or LikNuWood Oxalic as a neutralizer. When mold or mildew is present, follow the product guidance carefully and use appropriate personal protection.

For discoloration without significant mildew, a milder LikNuWood Oxalic mixture can help restore natural color, especially on redwood and cedar. LikNuWood Sodium can help remove gray weathering, nail, iron, and water stains. LikNuWood Maintenance is designed for yearly cleaning without harming the finish.

Pressure washing safely

Pressure washing is an effective way to rinse stripper or wood cleaner, but it can damage wood or force water through cracks. Use no more than 1,500 PSI, select a washer delivering 3–4 gallons per minute, and keep the tip at least 12 inches from the surface.

Never use a 0° tip. Keep the wand moving, start the spray away from the wood before moving onto it, and take extra care around ladders, windows, doors, and gaps between logs. Protect plants and shrubs before and after chemical application.