Power Washing and Roof Cleaning Forum

Upward Prowash · Veteran Member

Cleaning a old Log House

BlueRidge · Approved Exterior Cleaner

This post might help a bit.

http://nationalsoftwashalliance.activeboard.com/t63417868/would-anybody-tackle-this-job-what-do-you-recommend/

Jeff Wible · Approved Exterior Cleaner

The worst thing about log homes is they often leak when washed,.I always tell a log home owner that leaks in these older log homes is likely,..and I try for them to be home,.so they can aid in the toweling up of water if necessary,..especially around windows frames. Another thing I don't like is,..at least around here they seem to be always built in a secluded area (Which makes sense),..but they never seem to have an adequate water supply,..so keep those things in mind when bidding log homes.

Jeff

-- Edited by Jeff Wible on Tuesday 9th of May 2017 07:34:46 AM

Upward Prowash · Veteran Member

Thank you for the link!

Upward Prowash · Veteran Member

This log home is in good shape for its age. The mortar between the logs is very solid. I was thinking of using one cup per gallon of sodium percarbonate then come back with 1 cup per gallon oxalic. Would this be the correct approach?
Also, cleaning the siding and roof before starting the logs.

-- Edited by Upward Prowash on Thursday 11th of May 2017 09:27:41 AM

Jeff Wible · Approved Exterior Cleaner

For these logs,..I'd be at about 3-5 OZ. Per Gallon NAOH applied direct,.then neutralize with oxalic at about 8 OZ. per gallon. May need to reapply under the porch areas to get the black outta' those logs.

Mix some general soap in with the NAOH to get it to stick to the logs and allow more dwell and "wet" time. When you rinse,..don't worry about removing all the soap suds,.because they will just keep coming. The application of the oxalic will destroy the suds.

*I'd be rinsing at about 800-1000 PSI about 18" away from the surface,.. with a wide fan tip,..like a 40 degree. But a 25 will work also. These jobs is where GPM is so much more effective than lower GPM.

Jeff

-- Edited by Jeff Wible on Thursday 11th of May 2017 11:39:16 AM

Upward Prowash · Veteran Member

Jeff,
Thank you for the advice. I hope to have some good before and after pictures.
James

Upward Prowash · Veteran Member

Here is a before and after of the log home. The home owner was very happy that they cleaned up well. Thank for all of the help!!