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Wood Prep is Key to Great Results
Before staining you will need to take these steps to make sure the wood is ready to be stained. Make sure to clean the wood. You may also need to do a tape peel test or water absorption test. You will find instructions for wood prep and pre-staining tests here.
Learn More About Paramount Stains
Follow these Wood Stain Application Instructions
Pre-Application Must
CLEAN YOUR WOOD
Proper cleaning, especially on older, weathered wood results in a more beautiful, long-lasting finish. Even new wood needs to be cleaned to remove dirt and contaminants.
Wood should be cleaned thoroughly using ULTRA Advanced Deck Cleaner before applying any finish. ULTRA Advanced Deck Cleaner gets your deck color closer to new.
Tip: Prior to cleaning, lightly water surrounding vegetation and then cover with a tarp or drop cloth.
Pre-Application Test 1
TAPE PEEL TEST
This test is for older, weathered wood previously coated with solid color stain. This easy test will determine if your wood is ready to be stained or needs to be stripped first.
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Using a putty knife or other sharp blade, cut a small “X” in 2 or 3 random spots on the surface. Be careful not to cut into the wood.
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Cover the cuts with duct tape, and press down firmly on the tape.
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Then quickly remove the tape.
If any flakes of old wood stain or wood fibers are stuck on the tape, your wood needs to be stripped before you stain.
Get Pittsburgh Paint & Stains Wood Stripper
Pre-Application Test 2
WATER ABSORPTION TEST
Use this simple test to determine if your wood is ready to be stained:
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Pour a cup of water over a few areas on your deck.
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If the water is absorbed in less than 10 minutes, or if the surface color darkens, then it is time to stain your deck.
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If the water beads on the surface and is not absorbed in 10 minutes, you need to either remove the old finish or wait to apply a new stain or sealant.
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Applying a stain or sealant to improperly prepared wood will result in poor stain penetration and adhesion, which may damage the wood surface.