PRO PERKSFence Staining: 3 Mistakes You Never Want To Make
The three biggest mistakes contractors and DIYers make when staining wood.
Staining wood surfaces seems straightforward, but there are three critical mistakes that even experienced contractors sometimes make. These errors lead to peeling, uneven color, and costly re-dos. Here's how to avoid them.
Mistake 1: Staining Wet or Unprepared Wood
This is the number one cause of stain failure. Stain cannot bond to wet, dirty, or unprepared wood. The result? Peeling within months. Always ensure your wood is completely dry (below 20% moisture content) and properly cleaned and brightened using the EXPERT system. If rain is in the forecast within 48 hours, wait. Patience now saves headaches later.
The fix: Use EXPERT Wood Cleaner and EXPERT Wood Brightener, then wait the full drying time before applying any stain.
Mistake 2: Using Film-Forming Stains on Horizontal Surfaces
Solid color or film-forming stains are designed for vertical surfaces like fence sides. On horizontal surfaces like decks, they form a plastic-like coating that peels under foot traffic and weather exposure. Always use EXPERT Semi-Solid or Semi-Transparent stains on horizontal surfaces—they penetrate rather than coat.
The fix: For decks and horizontal railings, choose a semi-transparent or semi-solid finish. These allow the wood to breathe while providing color and protection.
Mistake 3: Skipping the Cleaning and Brightening Step
Some contractors rush straight to staining, thinking a quick rinse will suffice. Without proper cleaning and brightening, your stain sits on the surface rather than penetrating into the wood grain. This leads to poor adhesion, uneven coverage, and reduced durability.
The fix: Never skip EXPERT Wood Cleaner and EXPERT Wood Brightener. These steps take just one day and ensure your stain lasts 3-5 years instead of 1-2.
The best stain in the world won't perform on unprepared wood. Invest the time in proper prep and you'll have customers (or a home) that looks great year after year.