Lifeline Exterior – Premium Transparent Log Stain for Log Homes

Lifeline Exterior Log Stain – One of Canada’s Top Choice for Breathable, Long-Lasting Log Home Protection

Lifeline Exterior is Perma-Chink’s original and well trusted exterior log stain formula – continuously improved for over 30 years. This premium transparent log stain forms a thin, breathable film at the surface of your logs where protection is needed most, while allowing unseasoned logs to dry to their core. It delivers rich, natural color that enhances wood grain without hiding it, with excellent UV protection and long-lasting color retention even in harsh Canadian climates.

When finished with Lifeline Advance clear topcoat (required for maximum durability), Lifeline Exterior log stain provides the ultimate low-maintenance log home finish that resists peeling, cracking, or blistering – the perfect log stain system for Canadian log homes, cabins, and timber frames.

Lifeline Exterior Log Stain Colours

Lifeline Exterior log stain is available in 10 beautiful transparent tones that let the natural wood grain shine through. All colours are designed for maximum UV stability and long-term performance.

• Natural (clear – enhances wood tone without adding color)
• Dark Natural 130
• Dark Honey 122
• Hazelnut 170
• Walnut 165
• Stone Gray 163
• Driftwood 161
• Butternut 154
• Cinnamon 174
• Bronze 175
• Gentry Gray 142

Order free Lifeline Exterior log stain samples – free shipping across Canada!

Lifeline Exterior Log Stain Application Guide

Lifeline Exterior log stain is easy to apply and forgiving – back-brushing is required for perfect results.

• Surface Preparation: Wood must be clean, dry, free of mold/mildew/dirt. Never use steel wool. Use Log Wash with rinse, sand to 60-80 grit or blast and then sand to 60-80 grit. 
• Application Temperature: 40°F to 90°F (4°C to 32°C). Do not apply in direct sun.
• Application Methods: Airless sprayer or brush. Back-brushing required.
• Coats: 2 coats of Lifeline Exterior log stain + 1–2 coats of Lifeline Advance topcoat (required).
• Stirring: Stir every 15 minutes. Maintain a wet edge to avoid lap marks.
• Coverage: 350–450 sq ft/gallon on bare wood (1st coat), 600–800 sq ft/gallon (2nd coat).
• Drying Time: Dry to touch in hours, recoat in 24 hours. Full cure 3–5 days.

Key Benefits of Lifeline Exterior Log Stain

• Excellent UV protection with superior color retention
• Breathable film lets logs dry naturally – perfect for new or unseasoned log homes
• Thin-film technology – no peeling or cracking
• Rich, natural transparent tones that enhance wood grain
• Requires Lifeline Advance topcoat for maximum durability and minimal maintenance
• Proven performance on Canadian log homes for over 30 years

Maintenance – Lifeline Exterior Log Stain

Lifeline Exterior log stain with Advance topcoat typically lasts 3–5+ years on vertical surfaces (longer on protected walls). Maintenance is simple: clean with Log Wash, then apply one maintenance coat of Lifeline Exterior + Advance. No stripping or sanding needed.

Coverage Rates – Lifeline Exterior Log Stain

Frequently Asked Questions – Lifeline Exterior Log Stain

How many coats of Lifeline Exterior log stain do I need?

Two coats of Lifeline Exterior + 1–2 coats of Lifeline Advance topcoat for maximum durability.

Does Lifeline Exterior log stain require a topcoat?

Yes – Lifeline Advance clear topcoat is required for best performance and warranty.

Can Lifeline Exterior be used alone?

For maximum durability and minimal maintenance, always finish with Lifeline Advance.

How long does Lifeline Exterior log stain last?

3–5+ years on vertical surfaces with Advance topcoat (sun exposed). Many Canadian homes go 5–8 years between maintenance. (non sun exposed)

Is Lifeline Exterior suitable for new log homes?

Yes – its breathability allows unseasoned logs to dry properly.

Downloads

• Product Label (PDF)
• Lifeline MSDS (PDF)
• Lifeline Colour Chart (PDF)
• Lifeline Application Guide (PDF)