Outdoor log support refinishing

[earl84]

I have a client with 12 outdoor log vertical supports to refinish. Sorry, no pics. I tried to clean off with a pressure washer, 3100 psi. Tried a white nozzle, it wasn’t working well at all. Went to a tighter spray pattern green nozzle, but it tore the wood up pretty good, and made the wood kind of hairy. Tried in an inconspicuous spot, so no harm done. I also told them I had no experience with this technique and didn’t know what the results would be. They’re totally fine with what happened.
What’s the right technique or alternate method, and what should I put on? I’m hoping for a product at the HD so I can get it quickly. I’m thinking maybe just knocking off the really bad flaky stuff that’s on there now with a sponge sander (not fun) and putting something over the top of what’s left.

Any help is appreciated.

 

[jpaw]

A chemical stripper for wood should work.

 

[PCustoms]

What kind of wood?

I've seen a few cabins get dry media blasted with corncob or walnut shell. Not exactly something you get at Lowes or home Depot.....

Lots of sandpaper.

 

[nadogail]

I have used a Flap Disc to remove evidence.

 

[Bretny]

What are you removing would be my first question?

 

[earl84]

The wood is pine, and I dont really know what it is I'm removing. It looks like spar varnish that has been UV damaged and it's flaking and discolored. In general, the columns just look splotchy and tired and like they need to be refinished with something else. I know this is kind of vague, but its the best I can describe.