Interior Log Home Finishing Colorado

Interior Finishing: Enhancing and Protecting Your Wooden Surfaces

Have you ever struggled to clean or maintain unfinished wood surfaces? The truth is, untreated wood tends to collect dust and dirt, making it challenging to maintain. Proper interior wood finishing not only simplifies cleaning but also adds a warm, inviting glow to your home. Even better, interior finishing is a one-time effort that provides lasting results, requiring only routine maintenance like dusting and wiping to keep your wood surfaces looking fresh.

At Log Home Finishing, we specialize in helping homeowners preserve the natural beauty of their wood interiors. Under the guidance of our owner, Thomas Elliott, we ensure every project is handled with expertise and attention to detail, leaving your home with a stunning, durable finish.

Here are three straightforward steps to prep and finish your interior wood surfaces, ensuring both durability and aesthetic appeal:

1. Prep the Wood

Clean Any Mold or Mildew

If you notice any signs of mold or mildew, start by treating the surface with a mild cleaning solution. Products like a diluted wood cleaner or specialized cleaners are ideal for this step. Ensure you rinse the surface thoroughly to neutralize the cleaner and allow the wood to dry completely. Don’t forget to protect nearby flooring or furniture from runoff during the cleaning process.

Remove Discoloration

Discolored or grayed wood often results from exposure to sunlight or aging. To restore its natural beauty, lightly sand or buff the wood surface using 60- to 80-grit sandpaper or a sanding pad system. Avoid spot sanding, as it may result in uneven staining. Prepping the entire area will help you achieve a consistent finish.

2. Apply Stain

Staining enhances the natural grain and color of wood while offering a layer of protection against UV damage. Products like transformation or log stains are excellent for interior surfaces.

• Start with a light coat of stain, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight. This helps prevent a “picture frame effect,” where the exposed wood fades while covered sections retain their original tone.

• If you’re looking for a deeper or richer color, additional coats can be applied. Always test the stain on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure you achieve the desired look.

• Be mindful of your environment—well-ventilated spaces are essential for staining projects.

3. Apply a Clear Coat

A clear coat is a non-negotiable final step for any wood finishing project. It provides:

• Protection: A clear coat seals the wood, preventing scratches, stains, and everyday wear and tear.

• Aesthetic Appeal: It accentuates the wood grain, giving the surface a smooth, polished look.

For best results, apply two coats of clear finish. Products like Symphony® interior clear coat are specifically formulated to create a long-lasting, easy-to-clean surface. Again, testing different finishes on a sample piece will help you choose the right level of sheen for your project.

Maintenance Tips

Once your interior wood surfaces are finished, maintaining them is simple. Regularly dust the surfaces with a soft cloth, and occasionally clean with a gentle wood cleaner to keep them looking their best.

At Log Home Finishing, we take pride in delivering high-quality results for every client. With years of experience, Thomas Elliott and our team are dedicated to helping you protect and enhance the natural beauty of your log home. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation.

By following these steps and partnering with professionals like us, you’ll not only protect your interior wood but also enhance the beauty and charm of your home’s natural elements.