Media Blasting, Sanding, and Pressure Washing for Log Homes in Northern Michigan & Wisconsin

Here at Weatherwize, we specialize in log home surface preparation. Before a single drop of stain is applied or a log is repaired, your home needs to be clean and properly prepped. Our team helps homeowners throughout Northern Michigan, the U.P., and Northern Wisconsin prepare their cabins and custom log homes for the next stage of restoration.

Surface prep isn’t just about looks—it’s about protection, performance, and preserving the life of your logs. Whether you’re removing years of wear, preparing for sealing, or refreshing an aging exterior, our surface cleaning services provide a strong foundation to build on.

Media Blasting: A Gentle Clean

Media blasting is one of the most efficient methods for removing dirt, failed stain, or mildew from log surfaces without damaging the wood underneath. We offer three media blasting options, which are chosen based on your log home's condition, wood type, and overall needs. 

These include:

• Corn cob – Great for general cleaning with minimal abrasion

• Ground glass  – Best for heavy buildup and tough coatings

We manage dust and debris with professional containment and disposal methods, keeping your home and surroundings neat throughout the process.

Sanding for a Smooth Finish

After blasting, sanding refines your log surfaces to make them smooth and ready for finishes. This step removes any remaining grit and faded coatings and levels out the texture between new and old logs. Sanding also prepares the logs for even stain absorption.

Our crew uses a combination of hand tools and commercial-grade sanders to get a consistent finish on every surface. Once everything is smooth and clean, the natural grain of your logs will shine through.

Pressure Washing That Protects Your Wood

When used correctly, pressure washing can be a fast and safe way to refresh log homes. We carefully calibrate our equipment to make sure it cleans effectively without gouging or damaging the wood.

Here’s how we do it:

• Use soft-wash pressure settings designed for wood.

• Apply eco-friendly solutions to remove mold, algae, and grime.

• Carefully clean joints, edges, trim, and hard-to-reach areas.

This service is especially helpful for homes in humid Northern Wisconsin and the forested areas of the U.P., where organic buildup is common.

One Team for Prep, Repair, and Finish Work

Surface prep is only part of what we offer. Once your logs are cleaned and smoothed, our team can move directly into restoration work without delay. Weatherwize offers complete log home services, including:

Restoration: Revive your aging or damaged log home with our expert restoration services. Whether it’s weathered wood, failing stain, or structural issues, we identify the root cause and restore with care.

Construction: We build handcrafted log homes that reflect the land on which they sit using local materials, sustainable practices, and precision techniques developed over decades. From the first consultation to the final walk-through, we handle every phase of the construction process.

Maintenance: Prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your log home with proactive, professional maintenance tailored to the unique climate of the Upper Peninsula and Northern Wisconsin.

With one team handling everything, you don’t need to juggle multiple contractors or worry about missed steps. You can trust Weatherwize, a team of log home professionals, to deliver beautiful, long-lasting results.

Why Choose Weatherwize?

We’re familiar with the terrain, climate, and building methods used throughout Northern Michigan, the U.P., and Northern Wisconsin. From cabins to lake homes, we’ve seen every kind of surface challenge and weather condition. 

Check out why homeowners trust Weatherwize for their log home needs:

• Log Home Specialists: Unlike general contractors or painters, we specialize 100% in log homes.

• Local Knowledge: We know the U.P., Northern Michigan, and Northern Wisconsin climates inside and out, and how to build and preserve homes that thrive in them.

• Sustainable Practices: We prioritize the use of local materials and responsible building practices that protect the environment and improve the durability of our projects.

• Leadership in the Industry: Our founder, Nate Demers, serves as President of the International Log Builders Association, bringing decades of hands-on expertise to every project.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does media blasting or sanding take?

Most surface prep jobs take 2 to 10 days, depending on the size and condition of the home.

Will blasting damage soft or old logs?

No, not when done correctly. We use media and techniques that are gentle on aged logs but still effective at removing buildup.

Can I stain right after pressure washing?

We recommend waiting 3–5 days to allow the logs to fully dry before staining or sealing.

How do I determine which method is best: blasting or sanding?

We’ll assess your home and recommend the best method based on your finish type, wood species, and restoration goals.

Do I have to be home during the surface prep?

Not necessarily. Many clients choose to schedule work while away, especially for seasonal homes. We’ll also provide daily updates if requested.

Get Started with a Clean Foundation

Before renovating your log home, proper preparation is key to getting the best results. That’s where Weatherwize comes in, supporting you every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation or request a surface prep quote. Let’s take the first step toward revitalizing your dream home!