Log Home Restoration: What is Mill Glaze?

Mill Glaze is a waxy film that results from the fast turning blades that cuts the profile on a manufactured log. The high speed of the turning blades produces heat that draws sap and moisture out of the log. As it cools and dries, it creates a film or coating on the logs. If the film is not removed, an oil stain will not penetrate properly and latex stains will not adhere properly. Although there are “mill glaze” remover products sold, a light chemical strip is all that is needed to not only remove mill glaze, but also dirt, stains and discolorations. Stripping will also remove mildew however, it is recommended to follow up with a chlorine rinse to make sure all the mildew is not just removed, but the mildew spores are killed deep into the pores of the wood. If not completely eradicated from the wood, mildew can grow back under the new stain causing major problems that can only be corrected by going through the whole stripping process again. Do it right the first time.