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“Let's do good, together.”   •   “Your home should say something about you!” — Barbara Rose (Artist Johnny Kimball's beloved momma)   •   “Let's do good, together.”   •   “Your home should say something about you!” — Barbara Rose (Artist Johnny Kimball's beloved momma)   •   
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Preserving Your Carving in the Pacific Northwest Climate

Johnny Kimball March 30, 2026
Preserving Your Carving in the Pacific Northwest Climate

The Pacific Northwest is one of the most beautiful places on Earth — and one of the most challenging environments for outdoor wood sculptures. Here’s how we ensure every piece endures.

Understanding the Enemy

Wood faces three primary threats in Oregon:

  • Moisture: 40+ inches of annual rainfall. Moisture promotes rot, mold, and fungal growth.
  • UV Radiation: Summer sun bleaches and degrades wood fibers, causing graying and surface checking.
  • Temperature Cycling: Freeze-thaw cycles expand and contract wood, creating cracks.

Our Multi-Layer Defense

Layer 1 — Penetrating Preservative: A borate-based wood preservative soaks deep into the grain, providing insect and fungal resistance from within.

Layer 2 — Pigmented Stain: Quality exterior stain with UV inhibitors provides color and sun protection. The pigments scatter UV rays before they can damage the wood beneath.

Layer 3 — Clear Topcoat: A marine-grade spar urethane or exterior clear coat provides the final moisture barrier and gives the sculpture a beautiful sheen.

Annual Maintenance

We recommend an annual inspection and touch-up coat of clear sealant. Think of it like waxing a fine car — a small investment of time that pays huge dividends in longevity.

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