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Our log home is almost ready for finishing, but there are weathered places where unexpected rains have darkened some surfaces of our logs and beams. We’ve been told by a local contractor to use a low-pressure spray of nine parts water to one part bleach on the logs and beams to even out the color and kill any fungus which may be lingering. We’ve been told to do this before the final dry-in. Was this good advice? Or is there a better way to pre-treat our weathered logs before dry-in and final surface treatment? I can post a pic if necessary.
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Our log home is almost ready for finishing, but there are weathered places where unexpected rains have darkened some surfaces of our logs and beams. We've been told by a local contractor to use a low-pressure spray of nine parts water to one part bleach on the logs and beams to even out the color and kill any fungus which may be lingering. We've been told to do this before the final dry-in. Was this good advice? Or is there a better way to pre-treat our weathered logs before dry-in and final surface treatment? I can post a pic if necessary.
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Mamaverdi,
Bleach for fungus/mildew. Except me, I always went 2:1 w/ the water:bleach. Whatever works.
Oxalic acid for tannin / water stains. Best bought in a crystalline form - melted in small amount of boiling water - dilute w/ cool water to desired strength. Can be purchased at major paint suppliers, and I'm sure I've seen it at Home Depot at one time or another.
Another product that is slightly more viscous, which helps it adhere to vertical surfaces better (i.e., your walls), is DecksWood, I think it's made by Flood. It's either Deckswood or another label by the same manufacturer in their wood siding and deck-restoration product line. A lot more expensive than pure Oxy crystals that you blend yourself, but maybe more user-friendly.
Pre-treat green or fresh lumber a waste of effort and money, IMO.
Geo.