Best Log Home Stains

Log cabin stain reviews.

Whether you have a new build or you need to restain an old cabin, finding the right stain can be difficult. The best log home stain will vary depending on preference and application. We previously wrote an article comparing our two favorites Sashco Capture vs Transformation Stain. In this article we are going to review the best log home stains on the market and hopefully help you decide. If you still need help deciding, feel free to call us.

Transformation Log and Timber

Type of stain: Oil-Based stain

Usage: Exterior Only 

Sheen: Gloss

Coats Required: 2 Coats

Clean-Up: Will need mineral spirits to clean.

Maintenance: Gently power wash and re-coat every 3-5 years

Review: Since Transformation Log and Timber is an oil-based stain, this means it will not need a clear coat first and that it can be used over most other stains. Transformation Log and Timber penetrates the wood protecting logs at a deeper level.

Capture Log Stain & Cascade

Type of stain: Water-based surface stain.

Usage: Interior & Exterior Water-based stains only   

Sheen: Satin

Coats Required: 2 Coats of capture and 1 coat of cascade.

Clean-Up: Cleans up with water fairly easily.

Maintenance: Gently power wash and re-coat of Cascade every 3-5 years

Review: Capture is water based and environmentally friendly. This makes it both easy to clean up and usable on interiors as well as exteriors. The disadvantage of this stain is that you can only use it over other water-based stains. It also will require 3 coats in the beginning.

WeatherSeal

Type of stain: 100% Oil/Resin based.

Usage: Exterior 

Sheen: Translucent

Coats Required: 1 - 2 Coats

Clean-Up: Will need mineral spirits to clean.

Maintenance: Gently power wash and re-coat every 3-5 years

Review: Unlike other stains on this list, WeatherSeal is thick and provides a no-drip application. This takes some getting used to, but is amazing for ensuring that the stain sinks into the wood and does not drip off. If you are going to add insect prevention additive, make sure you add it to the second coat only.

OutLast Q8 Log Oil

Type of stain: Oil-Based

Usage: Exterior 

Sheen: Satin

Coats Required: 1 Coat

Clean-Up: Will need mineral spirits to clean.

Maintenance: Gently power wash and re-coat every 3-5 years

Review: Outlast Q8 Log Oil really stands out as an oil-based stain that is also EPA registered wood preservative. Outlast Q8 protects against rot, insects, mold, and water damage. This is a highly effective water repellent stain and great for log siding as well. It also mixes great with products such as NBS30.

LifeTime Wood Treatment

Type of stain: Water - Powdered

Usage: Exterior 

Sheen: Dark brown patina depending on wood.

Coats Required: 1 Coat

Clean-Up: Soap and water. 

Maintenance: One time application.

Review: LifeTime cannot be used with borate. This is one of the only disadvantages. LifeTime is one of a kind and only needs to be applied once and then it will last a lifetime. Lifetime is non-tox and nature friendly. Lifetime comes in a powdered form and is used by adding water. If you are looking for something that is a one and done; then this is your stain. One disadvantage is that there are not many color options and wood especially on the interior may turn gray.

Lifeline Ultra - 7

Type of stain: Polymer Resin

Usage: Exterior 

Sheen: Variety 

Coats Required: 1 Coat

Clean-Up: Soap and water. 

Maintenance:  Gently power wash and re-coat every 3-5 years

Review: LifeLine Ultra - 7 comes in some really distinguished colors such as gray and smoke. This is great for unseasoned logs as it has unique breathable film that allows logs to dry out. It is also compatible with all Perma-Chink systems wood care products. Lifeline Ultra only requires one coat and provides excellent UV protection.

ProLuxe

Type of stain: High Solids Alkyd

Usaged: Exterior (Also For Decks)

Sheen: Transparent - Clear - Transparent Matte

Coats Required: 2 Coat

Clean-Up: Will need mineral spirits to clean. 

Maintenance:  Gently power wash and re-coat every 3-5 years

Review: ProLuxe is great for people who want to show the natural color of the logs or siding. With Proluxe you can either choose transparent satin, clear, or a transparent matte finish. Proluxe has a great mix that protects against UV damage and graying. It also helps to protect against blistering and cracking.

X-100 Natural Seal

Type of stain: Oil-based.

Usage: Exterior 

Sheen: Cedartone Gold

Coats Required: 2 Coat

Clean-Up: Will need mineral spirits to clean. 

Maintenance:  Gently power wash and re-coat every 3-5 years

Review: X-100 consists of 21 essential wood protecting ingredients and is designed to penetrate wood. One downside is that many caulks will not adhere to X-100 wood finish. It is best to consult with someone before opting for this stain. 

We hope this list of reviews helps you with your staining project. If you have any questions, feel free to call us and ask!