Log Home Restoration: The Importance of Neutralizing

Before and After Acid

In this photo, acid was brushed on the logs to show the difference neutralizing can make. When applying a semi-transparent finish, it is imperative  that acid be applied for obvious reasons. The milky look on these logs will not show through the stain but it will make them darker and much of the wood grain apperance that is achieved using a semi-transparent finish will be lost. More importantly, the milky residue WILL interact with the new finish causing premature failure. Always neutralize!