Timber Frame Restoration Project – Kenora Area
Today I’m reviewing a timber frame restoration project we completed in the Kenora / Lake of the Woods area, where we frequently work on timber frame homes, log homes, and exterior wood maintenance.
Project Overview
This project involved restoring a beautiful timber frame structure. The beams were in solid structural condition with no rot, but they showed significant weathering from Lake of the Woods climate conditions. The stain on the deck boards had also worn away over time.
Our goal with this project—and with most of our timber frame refinishing work in Northwestern Ontario—is to revive the wood’s natural beauty while ensuring long-lasting protection.
Choosing the Right Stain for Timber Frames
We began by selecting a stain that coordinated with the existing tones of the timber. While one side matched the sample closely, other beams varied slightly. This is common in timber frame and log home restoration, where natural wood colours differ from piece to piece.
Rather than trying to match every face perfectly, we focus on finding a stain colour that provides the most cohesive overall appearance. This approach results in:
A more uniform final look
Better long-term maintenance
Easier color matching for future touch-ups
This is the stain sample we ultimately selected for the project.
Surface Preparation & Sanding
Proper preparation is essential in any log home or timber frame maintenance project. We completed extensive sanding where the old finish had failed, and performed lighter sanding in areas that were still intact, mainly to remove:
Cobwebs
Dirt
Environmental buildup common around Lake of the Woods
Once everything was cleaned and prepped, we moved on to staining and clear coating.
Staining & Clear Coating Process
After applying stain to all exposed wood, we finished the project with two coats of clear:
First Coat
A clear coat with a small amount of stain mixed in
This adds warmth and depth to the wood
Second Coat
Adjusted based on beam colour:
Lighter timbers received slightly more tint for consistency
Darker or rich-looking beams received an untinted clear coat to avoid over-darkening
This customized approach ensures each timber blends beautifully while preserving its natural character.
Before & After Results
The transformation was significant. After removing the worn finish and applying our stain and protective topcoats:
The grain became more visible
The tone brightened and warmed
The wood looked healthier, richer, and more vibrant
This is a common result for our timber frame restoration projects in Kenora and Lake of the Woods, where sun exposure and moisture tend to fade the original finish over time.
Key Takeaway
Every timber frame or log home is unique, and so is each restoration project. It’s not always about finding the perfect colour match—it’s about choosing the most cohesive colour overall.