FAQ
Caring for Your Wooden Chainsaw Carving
Congratulations on your new chainsaw carving! With proper care, your piece can last for years. Follow these simple tips to keep it looking great:
1. Sealing and Protection
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Sealer Check: Your carving is sealed before delivery, but it’s essential to reapply a wood sealer every 6-12 months.
- Use a clear polyurethane or spar urethane for outdoor carvings.
- For indoor carvings, a clear wax or furniture polish will suffice.
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How to Apply:
- Lightly clean the surface (see below).
- Use a brush to apply the sealer evenly, watch for "drips" following the wood grain. Allow to dry completely before applying another coat if needed.
2. Placement Matters
- Indoors: Avoid placing your carving near heating vents, direct sunlight, or areas with excessive humidity to prevent cracking.
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Outdoors:
- Place your carving on a raised surface (like bricks, gravel or a stand) to avoid direct contact with the ground. You want air flow so carving have a less chance to wicker water and get mold and rot.
- Choose a spot that’s protected from constant sun or rain if possible (e.g., under a porch or tree).
3. Cleaning Your Carving
- Dusting: For indoor carvings, dust regularly with a soft cloth or brush.
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Washing: For outdoor carvings, rinse gently with water. Use a soft brush to remove dirt.
- Avoid pressure washers—they can damage the wood!
- Let the carving air dry completely before repainting, staining and resealing.
4. Handling Cracks
- Cracking is not guarantee and normal for any type of wood. Some small cracks are normal as the wood expands and contracts with weather changes.
- To minimize cracking, ensure the carving is sealed and protected from extreme conditions.
- For larger cracks, you can fill them with wood filler and sand smooth before painting/resealing.
- remember wood is a natural element and sometimes it wants to express itself by cracking which gives the wood more character and charm!:)
5. Seasonal Care
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Winter (if outdoors):
- Bring your carving inside if possible.
- If left outdoors, ensure it’s sealed well and covered during heavy snow or freezing rain.
6. Inspect Regularly
- Check for signs of wear, mold, or pests (e.g., wood-boring insects).
- If carving gets mold, wear a mask and brush away mold with dawn soap and warm water. Allow to completely dry before reseal promptly.
- If pests are an issue, spray carburetor cleaning spray in hole to kill bugs and fill in hole with wood filler
Questions or Concerns?
I’m here to help! Reach out anytime if you have questions about maintaining your carving.
Enjoy your piece!
— ChainsawJenna