Get Creative with Custom Log Home Stain Colors That Wow
Driving through a peaceful countryside, you catch a glimpse of a charming log cabin nestled against a backdrop of towering pines. As you get closer, you notice the exterior logs are bathed in a stunning shade of charcoal grey that perfectly complements the home's natural wood textures. The modern color choice makes this log home stand out in a breathtaking way. If you're looking to build or restain your own log home, getting creative with custom stain colors can help you achieve a showstopping exterior that wows.
We'll also cover proper prep and application so you can achieve flawless results. With the right color choice and techniques, you can showcase the beauty of your log home in a striking new way.
Popular Log Home Stain Color Trends
When imagining a traditional log cabin, earthy hues like browns, greens, and reds may come to mind. But you don't have to limit yourself to typical woodsy colors. Many of today's log homes showcase modern, eye-catching stain colors that add dramatic curb appeal. Here are some of the most popular custom stain color trends:
Charcoal Grey
One of the most prevalent stain color trends is charcoal grey. This sophisticated neutral has become increasingly popular for log homes in recent years. Charcoal grey creates a very modern, sleek look that works particularly well on homes with darker, horizontal logs. The cool tone adds a contemporary edge and pairs nicely with wood's natural texture. If you want your log home to stand out with a more avant-garde style, a charcoal grey stain is sure to impress.
Cinnamon Brown
For a warmer, more rustic aesthetic, cinnamon brown stain is an excellent choice. This rich, dimensional brown has red undertones that complement vertical wood grain patterns beautifully. Cinnamon brown evokes a cozier, more traditional feeling than charcoal grey. It's perfect for a cabin-style home or anyone looking for a woodsy yet upscale look. The vibrant color also helps hide discolorations and blemishes in aged logs.
Natural Wood
Letting your logs' natural beauty shine through is also a popular option. Many homeowners opt for a clear sealant or finish rather than a colored stain. This preserves the wood's authentic grains, knots, and color variations in their original state. The look is especially ideal for high quality, carefully selected logs with interesting features and textures. Skipping the stain allows the home to harmonize with its natural surroundings rather than contrasting starkly. It's an easy way to create a timeless, rustic style.
Weathered Grey
Weathered grey mimics the aging effects of the sun and elements on untreated logs over time. This gives a coastal cottage or farmhouse style without having to patiently wait years for natural weathering. Cool grey tones blended with neutral browns or silver create a low-maintenance stained finish. Weathered grey is particularly popular in coastal regions, cabins, and homes aiming for a relaxed, aged look. And it avoids the greenish grey hue of actual weather-damaged wood.
Forest Green
Deep forest greens are another natural-looking yet stylish option. For a pacific northwest or woodland inspired home, an earthy forest green stain evokes evergreen trees and lush ferns. The color is versatile enough to work well on both vertical and horizontal log arrangements. Compared to lighter greens, forest green appears richer and more vibrant. It can lend a modern, elegant twist to traditional log homes. Forest green also blends in nicely to wooded surroundings.
Choosing Your Custom Stain Color
With limitless stain colors to choose from, deciding on the right one for your home can be daunting. Here are some tips for landing on a shade that wows:
Consider Architecture and Design Elements
Take a look at your log home's existing architecture and style. Certain colors complement different construction styles better. For instance, horizontal log homes tend to pair better with lighter greys rather than heavy browns. Meanwhile, vertical logs look beautiful accented with warmer brown and red tones. Also look at roof color, stonework, and other accents that your stain should coordinate with.
Sample Different Stains
Never decide on a stain color without testing it first. Stain samples available at hardware stores are a good start. For a more accurate representation, stain a test piece of wood or small area of your actual logs. Be sure to view the test sections in different lighting at various times of day. Colors can take on vastly different hues in morning sun versus evening shade.
Coordinate With Other Exterior Finishes
Along with wood logs, consider how your stain color will look alongside other exterior materials like roof shingles, stonework, or paneling. You want your log stain to complement these finishes instead of clashing. If you haven't yet chosen siding or roofing materials, bring stain samples to help select a cohesive color scheme.
Prepping and Staining Your Log Home
Once you've selected your perfect custom color, proper prep and application are crucial for flawless results. Here are some tips to ensure your stain pops the way you envisioned:
Proper Prep Is Crucial
Before applying stain, logs must be fully cleaned and prepped. This means removing any previous finish, mill glaze, dirt or failing sealant from your logs through pressure washing and sanding. Proper prep removes surface contaminants so the new stain can properly penetrate. Talk to your contractor about the best cleaning and prep methods for your type of logs.
Always Test Stain on a Sample Board
Never apply stain directly to your home without testing it first. Variances in wood species, milling, and porosity can significantly impact stain absorption and color. Apply samples of your chosen stain to leftover planks from your log piles or extra test boards. Confirm you achieve the exact hue and tone you want before moving ahead.
Apply Along Wood Grain with Brush
Use a paintbrush to apply stain across the length of your logs, following the direction of the grain. This ensures even absorption and avoids creating blotchiness in the stain. The manufacturer will specify tools and techniques so follow their product instructions closely. Typically, two coats are recommended for full, even coverage.
Allow Proper Drying Time Between Coats
It's imperative to let each stain application dry fully before adding another coat. This typically takes 24-48 hours depending on weather conditions. Rushing the drying time can ruin the color consistency and lead to drips, unevenness, and tackiness. Be patient and allow your stain time to cure properly as directed.
Maintaining Your Stain's Vibrant Color
The right maintenance is key to keeping your log home exterior looking as stunning as the day it was stained. Follow these upkeep steps to retain your custom color:
Reapply Every 2-4 Years
On average, expect to re-stain your home every 2-4 years. Exact timing depends on factors like stain quality, exposure levels, and climate conditions. Signs that it's time for a refresh include wearing away, extensive fading, and excessive mildew growth. Don't wait for complete stain failure, which requires far more prep work. Maintain your finish before it gets to that point.
Regular Cleaning
Yearly log home cleaning helps remove mildew, dirt, pollen and other buildup that deteriorate stain over time. Use a dedicated log cleaner and avoid damaging wood with high pressure washing. Let your contractor assess the best cleaning methods for your specific logs and stain type. Taking good care of your exterior in between stain jobs ensures the next application adheres and lasts well.
Avoid High Pressure Washing
While some pressure washing is fine for prep work before restaining, avoid using high pressure regularly. The intense force can damage wood fibers and existing stain, shortening its lifespan. Heavy pressure washing too frequently can also create an uneven, patchy appearance. Opt for gentler cleaning methods in between stain reapplications.
Touch Up Bare Spots Quickly
Check for worn spots in your stain about once a year, especially in areas exposed to heavy weathering like southern and western facing sides. Anytime bare wood starts showing through, touch up with fresh stain as soon as possible. Addressing wear right away prevents moisture from penetrating and deteriorating logs before your next overall re-coat.
The right custom stain color can make your log home exterior a breathtaking focal point. Charcoal greys, cinnamon browns, weathered greys, and forest greens are just some of the trending options that ensure your home stands out. Consider your home's architecture, test samples, and properly prep your logs before applying any new stain. Follow the manufacturer's directions to achieve an even, consistent color. Then properly maintain your finish every few years so it continues wowing onlookers with its vibrant hue. With a little strategic planning, you can showcase your log home in its best light through creative use of custom colors.