While staining creates a rich, deep color that highlights natural wood grain, it does not provide long-term protection. Without a protective top coat, wood can be damaged easily due to contact with water, food, or sharp objects. A polyurethane top coat protects the wood from scratches, stains and water damage. A Spar Varnish should be used on outdoor wood to protect it from weather damage and UV rays.

Pre-Stain or Wood Conditioner is often used on soft wood like pine. The inconsistent porous nature of soft woods can result in a stain finish that is blotchy or uneven. Wood conditioner or pre-stain acts as a base coat before staining by filling in the wood pores for more even color coverage.

• STEP 1: Before applying, test the color in an inconspicuous area to ensure it’s the color you want. Make sure the wood is the same type as the rest of your piece.

• STEP 2: Stir the contents thoroughly before use. Some stain color may settle at the bottom of the can so it is important to stir thoroughly, just like you would for paint.

Next apply the stain using a high quality synthetic bristle brush, foam brush or clean, lint-free cloth. We prefer a lint-free cloth as it allows greater control during the application process. Apply the stain liberally in the direction of the grain until the wood is saturated on top. Allow the stain to set on the wood according to manufacturer’s directions. We recommend 5 minutes for Varathane Wood Stain. For less color wipe immediately; for more color allow the full 5 minutes for absorption. Do not let the stain set longer than 5 minutes as it will begin to dry.

• STEP 3: Wipe off the excess stain in the direction of the wood grain. Allow the stain to dry according to label directions before applying a protective clear top coat such as a polyurethane or lacquer.

Sanding is an important step that can affect the overall aesthetic outcome of your wood project. Start by selecting the right sandpaper. Inferior paper will wear out quickly, load up rapidly with sanding dust and create broad, deep scratches that are difficult to remove.

STEP 1: Start with the coarsest grit of sandpaper (80- to 100-grit) to remove any large scratches. We think that it’s okay to use a random-orbital sander, but some purists claim that all sanding should be done by hand. You can decide what’s best for your project.

Always sand in the direction of the wood grain, never against. Remove sanding dust before moving onto the next round of sandpaper. Sanding dust can be removed using a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with mineral spirits.

STEP 2: Now move to 120 to 150-grit paper and sand entire surface. Remove the sanding dust.

STEP 3: Finally move to fine 180-grit sandpaper for a final sweep over the wood surface. Remember to remove all sanding dust before beginning the stain application.

Polyurethane should be applied using a high quality brush. The polyurethane should be applied in light, even coats, always brushing with the grain. Create a thin overlap from coat to coat but do not over brush. Three coats are recommended for adequate durability. Follow dry times noted on the product packaging.

Complete a porosity check by pouring a small amount of clean water on the deck surface. The water should soak into the wood readily, if the water beads on the surface then further cleaning will be required before moving forward.