We service all of the US and Canada.
FAQ
Since 2000, we have restored, refurbished and protected hundreds of log and timber home structures across Canada, in just about every setting imaginable. We restore between thirty to forty log structures every year.
As a result of this experience and knowledge, we are able to provide our clients with an honest, easy and straight forward experience.
We look at the wood species, age and condition of the logs for signs of weather and UV damage as well as possible mold, mildew or rotting wood.
Once a thurough review of the structure is completed, we will provide you with our unbiased, professional opinion, as to how to best protect your home as cost effectively as possible.
Media blasting using ultra fine 50/100 crushed glass is the usually the best preperation method for all types of wood. The alternative is to sand or grind.
Here are the differences:
Blasting slightly profiles the substrate surface opening up the pores allowing the stain to penetrate deep into the cell structure, ultimately providing superior protection from harmful UV rays, rain and snow.
Sanding and or grinding is labour intensive, taking weeks to complete. It also leaves the substrate surface smooth as glass, closing the pores. The stain doesn’t penetrate deep enough to provide long lasting protection. The coatings on sanded wood become film coats. They are not penetrating like a blasted surface. Film coats will peel and de-laminate, making maintenance a frequent process.
Yes. Crushed glass blasting replaces the need to use toxic chemicals. It is also 100% silica-free and naturally dissipates into the environment in the same way that sand is applied to grass for improved drainage.
Yes. If you have an older log home, you may need to remove the old finish to restore your home to a vibrant new state. In the majority of cases we will recommend blasting the logs or wood with crushed glass. This medium is as fine as table salt and it creates a fine dust when it hits any substrate surface and becomes airborne.
Over time some logs can move creating gaps. As the process requires propelling abrasive glass using high volumes of compressed air, we wrap all interior perimeter walls with polypropylene by stapling and taping seams to avoid the unlikely event that dust enters through potential gaps into the home. As a precautionary measure we also cover all furnishings. If the home is caulked or chinked, this step isn’t always necessary.
Special care and attention will be paid to preparing the site prior to works commencing, as follows:
External Site Preparation:
– Re-locate all plants, BBQ’s, furniture etc. to a non dusty environment or cover with polypropylene
– Remove down spouts, where required
– Remove all fixtures, lights and other items fastened to walls
– Tape 6 mm heavy polypropylene to all glass, windows, frames, electrical outlets, junction boxes, aluminium flashing, cables and gutters etc. with non-residue abrasive resistant duct tape.
– Protect any other surfaces from blasting medium
Internal Site Preparation:
– Wrap all interior perimeter walls with polypropylene using staples and tape to seal seams
– Cover all furniture will polypropylene
We will work with you to determine the right product and recommend a number of proven, long lasting eco-friendly stains. All of our stains contain UV inhibitors that will both protect and bring out the natural beauty of your home.
We usually do a number of colour samples on your actual logs, so you are confident you have chosen the right product.
Depending on the condition of the building, we will generally apply anywhere from 2 to 3 coats of stain, but this is assessed on a case by case basis and depends on the age, type of wood and condition of the building.
A typical, restoration of a medium sized log home will take between 3 and 5 days from start to completion, but this will vary greatly depending on the age, type of wood, the condition of the building and of course the weather conditions.
Yes. Special care and attention is paid to cleaning the site at the end of the works, as follows:
– Remove all the polypropylene, tape and staples from the walls, wipe and vacuum if necessary.
– Re-install all downspouts, fixtures, lights etc.
– Return furniture, shrubs, etc. to their original position
– Sweep and bag any glass dust where possible
– Blow remaining dust away with a leaf blower
– Rake and blend any covered soil where possible
– After a couple of rainy days there is little sign of any dust where possible
The detailed quote will set out the full scope of services to be provided through each step of the process, this includes:
– Initial inspection of the building, when possible
– Advice on options and best course of action
– External site preparation
– Internal site preparation
– All blast medium and equipment
– Man lift rental and scaffolding, if required
– All materials, non-residue tape, polypropylene and tarps
– Blowing and cleaning the logs after blasting
– Preservative treatment, if required
– Recommendation on the most suitable stain
– Applying the stain
– Site cleanup where possible
– Warranty on coating
– Maintenance sheet on prolonging the finish
– Transportation and fuel cost to and from the site
– Food and accommodation for the crew, if required
– There will be no hidden costs. Our quotes are all inclusive.
Yes. Here is a list of our qualifications and certifications:
– First Aid
– Fall protection
– Confined space
– Certified hazardous technician
– WHIMS
– WCB clearance
– Liability Insurance
Generally, the crushed glass will disappear into the soil within one week.
There is no simple answer. It will depend on the state of the existing logs and wood, the age and condition of the logs, the extent of any weather or UV damage as well as possible mold, mildew or rotting wood.
We provide you and estimates free of charge. In many cases this can be done by submitting high quality photos of the building or structure.
Yes, we specialize in restoring and refinishing all log and wood structures.
Yes, we specialize in restoring and refinishing all log and wood structures.