What is Cob Blasting?
Most people, even ones that own log homes, are going to be asking – What in the world is cob blasting? It is quite simple really. Cob blasting is the process of removing existing stains and sealers from log homes. This process is recognized in the log home industry as the best and most effective way to prepare log homes for staining. I am sure you all have heard of sandblasting? Well cob blasting works on the same principal, using compressed air to propel ground up corn cobs against the wood surface effectively blasting away the prior stain finish.
Cob blasting works very efficiently at stripping the logs. The air pressure and the amount of corn cob can be adjusted very precisely to only remove as much of the outer portion of the log as is necessary to remove the finish and outer wood fibers. Corn cob that is used is bio-degradable, and actually work’s as a good mulch. Since there are no chemicals used in the cob blasting process, it is also very good for the environment.
Why not just use a pressure washer like you would on a deck? Well every log home has leaks. No it may not leak from rain but with a pressure washer you will have leaks. Since cob blasting is a dry process, it eliminates the problems that go along with power washing. Some homes have failing caulk and chink that will allow water into the home when using a pressure washer instead of cob blasting. Knots in the wood also provide an avenue for water and chemicals to enter into the home. I will not even mention the leak problems around windows and doors.
Another reason to use cob blasting is that since it is a dry process, the log home can then be immediately stained without waiting for the logs to dry. In some parts of the country it is very difficult to have more than a few consecutive dry days. When you use cog blasting, you can apply the stain the same day!
About the Author: Xtreme Maintenance operates their deck and fence staining service out of Helena, Montana. You can visit their site at xtrememaintenance.com or call them at 406-465-9334 for a free no obligation quote.
Related Deck Staining Blogs
Here are some other sites that have some more good information about deck staining and coatings.
How to Stain a Deck : How to Stain a Deck – YouTube
Stain | Define Stain at Dictionary.com
Where can I find sikkens deck stain? – Yahoo! Answers
File:Cedar deck stain.jpg – Wikipedia the free encyclopedia
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