Osborne Brushing

Once the Media blasting is complete there will be some slight felting of the soft areas of the wood. Osborne brushing is a specialized brushing technique that uses a rotary brush with abrasive bristles to remove the wood fuzz and give the log a more uniform surface. If the log surface is not uniform the stain will saturate the wood unevenly giving the finish a blotchy appearance that is undesirable to the eye. NOTE: Some restoration projects will need to be completely sanded due to the raised area of the hard grain which the Osborne brushing will not achieve by itself. All restoration projects will be tested to determine the proper approach that will be needed.  Proper Prep = Proper Finish

 

Sanding

Sanding logs after media blasting is a crucial step in the log home restoration process. While media blasting effectively removes old stain, dirt, and surface decay, it often leaves the wood rough and uneven, with raised fibers that can compromise the appearance and performance of the new finish. Sanding smooths out these imperfections, creating a clean and uniform surface that allows stains and sealants to absorb evenly and adhere properly. This not only enhances the durability of the finish but also ensures a consistent, attractive appearance. Additionally, sanding helps reveal hidden issues such as cracks, rot, or insect damage that might be concealed by blasting residue. By taking the time to sand after blasting, homeowners can achieve a longer-lasting, more beautiful restoration that protects their log home for years to come.

 

This photo shows the results of media blasting a home leaving a raised hard grain that was only Osborne brushed . These logs should have been Osborne brushed and sanded to achieve a smooth and uniform finish.  This is very hard to fix once a stain is applied. Please make sure the right steps are taken when restoring your log home. 

This photo shows why sanding is essential after a difficult media blast