How To Stain Your Bunkie

It is important to protect the exterior of your bunkie. We recommend a high quality log home stain like Sansin or Perma-Chink.

Perma-Chink’s Lifeline stains are water-based, low-VOC transparent wood finishes. Designed to move with the wood, they create a breathable, flexible coating that protects against moisture and UV exposure while allowing the natural beauty of our premium J-grade spruce to show through.

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.

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 Perma-Chink Log Wash or Sansin cleaner 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 Perma-Chink’s Stains and Finishes Application Guide and Sansin’s Product Data Sheets.

Q. How many coats of stain should I use?

Perma-Chink Ultra-7 is designed to be applied as a single coat, followed by one coat of Lifeline Advance clear topcoat to maximize durability. While one coat is sufficient, we find most clients prefer the look of two coats of Ultra-7 for a more even, consistent finish before the topcoat is applied.

Other Perma-Chink Lifeline stain systems are designed to be applied in two coats, followed by a Lifeline Advance clear topcoat to complete the finish.

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).

Q. How much stain should I buy?

You will need approximately 1-4 gallons of stain for 2 coats of the exterior, depending on the bunkie model.

  • Perma-Chink Ultra-7 will usually cover 250-350 sq.ft/gallon on the first coat. 
  • Perma-Chink’s other stain lines will usually cover 350-450 sq.ft/gallon on the first coat.
  • Sansin SDF will usually cover 300-350 sq.ft/gallon on the first coat. 

Coverage will also depend 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?

Some clients will stain the interior walls and others prefer to leave it natural. Since the interior isn’t exposed to the elements, it’s more for aesthetics, so staining is a bit of a preference choice. However, if you are in a climate with constant high humidity levels or wood-boring pests, then we would recommend sealing the interior as well. Even in drier climates, applying a finish never hurts—an added layer of protection can help hide minor scuffs, wear, and everyday marks while making maintenance easier over time.

If you would like to whitewash or add colour to the interior, you could use interior stains from either Perma-Chink or Sansin. If you would like a quote for interior stain, fill out our Perma-Chink Inquiry Form and let us know about your stain plans so 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 Perma-Chink products?

Perma-Chink products are available for purchase through us and can be drop-shipped straight to your door. For more details, visit our Perma-Chink webpage and use the buttons at the top or bottom of the page to request a custom quote.

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.

Are you thinking about building extra space on your cottage or home property?

We’re famous for our small cabins called bunkies that can be easily built in a weekend for extra space without needing a second mortgage. 

We help families create extra space for more meaningful connections and proudly deliver across Canada and USA.

Call us at 1-888-914-9298 or fill out this quick form. We will get back to you soon.

Let's Connect

Are you thinking about building extra space on your cottage or home property?

We’re famous for our small cabins called bunkies that can be easily built in a weekend for extra space without needing a second mortgage. 

We help families create extra space for more meaningful connections and proudly deliver across Canada and USA.

Call us at 1-888-914-9298 or fill out this quick form. We will get back to you soon.

Let's Connect