One key feature that makes our stains and finishes a better value than other options on the market is the coverage rate. An average-quality wood stain available at any big-box home improvement store offers a coverage rate of 150 square feet (sqft) per gallon. Even a finish specifically made for log homes only averages 150-250 sqft per gallon for a first coat, and 300-400 sqft per gallon for second or maintenance coats.

But one stain brand rises above the rest - expertly formulated to complement the unique character and demands of large logs and heavy timbers.

It's LIFELINE. 

Maximum Coverage Rate Means Lower Total Cost

Our Lifeline Ultra-2 stain comes in with a whopping 350-450 sqft per gallon first coat and 600-800 sqft per gallon second coat. That’s double the coverage rate of other products on the market. Additionally, our other Lifeline family of Ultra-7, Exterior, and Accents finishes have similar coverage rates, making any of our exterior finishes an excellent value.

"High" Sticker Price Isn't the Whole Story

Lifeline brand is not the lowest-priced option on the market by design. The science behind Ultra-2 engineered it to be better than available products, made with the highest-quality components, creating exceptional value when you look at the total cost. We’ve analyzed the cost difference between low-quality finishes and high-quality finishes in our Money Matters article, where labor expenses are a significant factor that gets overlooked when comparing project pricing.  

For DIY projects, the material cost of Ultra-2 might be more expensive than the lower-cost choices, but the extra gallons needed to equal the coverage rate and years of durability of Ultra-2 negate any savings. Throw in the 5-year Limited Warranty Lifeline Ultra-2 has when properly maintained, the total cost can not be beat by competitors. Lifeline finishes cover double the square footage and can last more than twice as long. Lesser quality finishes degrade faster and do not offer the superior protection Lifeline finishes offer. The inexpensive finish will easily end up costing twice as much for the same coverage, and twice more again when it comes to refinishing the home in two or three years.

Here’s a comparison of the estimated total cost to stain 1,000 sq. ft. log home using the two stain options:

✅ Summary

• Ultra-2 is significantly more cost-effective for both low and high coverage scenarios.
• Proluxe may be suitable for specific finishes or wood types, but it’s nearly double the cost at low coverage.

Get More with Ultra-2 - Performance That Pays for Itself!

At the end of the day, Lifeline Ultra-2 offers better coverage and longer durability than any product at a local big-box retailer. With less frequency between coats over the long, long life of your log or timber home, and impressive coverage rates, the value of Ultra-2 is simply unmatched.

Don't wait - order your free samples today!  - U-2 free samples  Custom colors are available in any shade, or we can match your desired color. Call 1-800-548-3554 to get started.