It is important to protect the exterior of your bunkie. We recommend a high quality log home stain like Sansin or Perma-Chink.
Sansin is unique because it is a waterborne formula; it is a modified natural oil with the advantages of both oil-based (improved penetration) and water-based stain (low VOC’s and soap and water clean-up). Sansin comes in a wide range of natural, semi-transparent and solid colours.
Perma-Chink’s Ultra-7 is a water-based, low-VOC transparent wood stain enhanced with advanced polymer resins. The resin creates a flexible and tough seal on your bunkie while offering excellent adhesion to wood. Ultra-7 is a transparent stain that allows the natural look of our premium grade spruce to show through.
Q. How do I prepare my bunkie before I stain?
- Preparation is key to the project being successful.
- Inspect wood surfaces for defects and make any necessary repairs.
- Use Sansin cleaner or Perma-Chink Log Wash and/or wash the entire surface using clean water.
- Sand the surface well using a 60-80 grit paper and a variable speed orbital sander.
- Follow by cleaning the surface thoroughly. It must be clean, free from dust, dirt, grease, wax or any existing coatings.
- More details on how to prepare your bunkie in ‘Preparation’ and ‘Application’ section of Sansin’s Product Information and Perma-Chink’s Stains and Finishes Application Guide.
Q. How many coats of stain should I use?
Sansin SDF is best applied as two coats to maximize durability and performance. Otherwise, if a single coat is applied, Sansin recommends using a double pigment load (modified by your authorized Sansin dealer).
Perma-Chink Ultra-7 is designed to be applied in a single coat, followed by one coat of Lifeline Advance clear topcoat to maximize durability. A second coat of Ultra-7 can be applied to intensify colour before a topcoat is added.
Q. How much stain should I buy?
Sansin SDF will usually cover 300-350 sq.ft/gallon and Perma-Chink Ultra-7 will usually cover 250-350 sq.ft/gallon, but this depends on how porous the wood is and moisture content. Also, be sure to apply the product to the point of refusal and back-brush any excess product, drips or puddles.
Note: Best practice for a vertical surface is to apply the product from the bottom up.
Q. What should we use on the interior walls?
Often clients keep the interior of the bunkie natural. However, if you would like to whitewash it, you could use interior stains from either Perma-Chink or Sansin. If you would like a quote for interior stain, visit our Perma-Chink webpage and put your request in the design notes and we can help!
View Sansin Interior Stains: https://www.sansin.com/products/interiors/
Q. What type of brush should I use to apply the stain?
We recommend using a Chinex bristle brush because it loads more product on the surface of the wood and is more efficient at working with a continuous wet-edge.
Alternatively, you can use a Stain & Paint Sprayer. While spraying can result in more waste, it can also be faster and easier once you get the hang of it. We still recommend having a brush handy for touch-ups, to eliminate drips, and to address areas that require more precision.
Q. Where can I buy Sansin products?
You can visit the Sansin dealer locator to find an authorized Sansin dealer near you. Find the product overview and directions for use on their website and answers to FAQ.
Q. Where can I buy Perma-Chink products?
Perma-Chink products are available for purchase through us to be drop-shipped directly to your location. Visit our Perma-Chink webpage to see shade variations and request a quote. If you would like to request a specific product from Perma-Chink (example: interior stain) just let us know so we can work towards getting you a quote.
In this video, Sansin’s Michael Lobodzinski shares helpful tips on how to stain a bunkie with Bunkie Life Owner David Fraser.