Applying a standard wood stain is relatively simple but quite a specific process. You should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions as stated on the product’s packaging. Our guide gives recommendations which are suitable for Linitop products. You should always check if you are using products from another manufacturer.
First things first though, as a wood stain is going to permanently stain the wood you should always carry out a sample test first. Make sure you’re trying your sample on the same type of wood as different species absorb stains in different ways. Our handy guide explains exactly how to apply a wood stain.
Preparing your wood surface before applying a wood stain
The exact surface preparation needed will depend on what surface you are staining. For example, if it is new or weathered and whether it has been coated before. Always remember that after sanding you must carefully clean and dust off the surface of the wood.
- New wood: Sand the surface (120 grit) to remove mill glaze, open the pores and allow the stain to perform better.
- Untreated, weathered wood (greyed wood): First, clean the wood with a good quality wood cleaner, allow to dry and then sand (120 grit) if necessary.
- Previously oiled wood: Remove the oils with a wood oil remover, rinse, allow to dry and sand (120 grit) if necessary.
- Previously stained or coated wood: Sand or strip the wood to make it bare (Some of our products can be applied on top of existing stains in good condition. Check the individual product information for specifics before starting your project).
Applying a wood stain primer
Once your surface is ready you should don your rubber gloves (it’s a stain after all so it will stain you too!). Some wood stains advise using a primer whilst others don’t. Use the 2 primers from the Linitop range as follows:
- Linitop Acryl Prim – a water-based primer which is used as a primer for Linitop Classic Acryl or as a 3 coat protective system in its own right
- Linitop Primer & Finish – a solvent-based primer which is used as a primer for Linitop Classic and Linitop Solid or as a 3 coat protective system in its own right
As a general rule, we recommend that you stick to a water-based OR solvent-based system with both primer and finish. When using either primer simply apply it in a single coat and leave to dry before moving onto your finish. We recommend using a natural brush for solvent-based stains and a synthetic brush for water-based stains.
If you want to use either of our primers as standalone protective products simply apply 3 coats, allowing the stated drying time in-between coats.
Applying a wood stain to exterior wood
After applying a primer and allowing adequate drying time you can begin to apply your wood stain. All the Linitop wood stains should be applied in 2 coats, allowing drying time in-between. You should always apply a wood stain in the direction of the grain. Pay particular attention to grooves, corners and the underside of surfaces. Be sure to apply the stain evenly and be careful of overlapping to ensure an even stain.
The wood stain market can be confusing and there are so many stains to choose from. We have a range of water-based and solvent-based stains – see below for more information about each one:
- For a water-based wood stain use Linitop Classic Acryl or Linitop Acryl Prim for a primer and finish in one
- For a solvent-based wood stain use Linitop Classic for standard protection with UV resistance, Linitop Solid for high-performance protection with additional UV barriers or Linitop Primer and Finish for an all-in-one primer and finish product
If you’re applying it with a spray gun then you should always back brush to aid penetration and ensure an even finish. If you’re using the wood stain for exterior wood then you need to ensure that at least the final two coats are coloured rather than clear to have UV protection.
Now you’re done!
We hope you found this post on how to apply a wood stain helpful. If you have any other tips, tricks or advice, please feel free to leave them in the comments below. We love hearing from you!
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Our team are ready and willing to support you with your requirements whether it is protecting your newly laid deck or renovating a luxury yacht, whatever the application Owatrol has the solution you are looking for.
