When it comes to home improvement projects, wood staining is a good one to take on. The procedure does not only improve the aesthetic appeal of your wood surfaces and fixtures, but it also protects them from sun and water damage, making them last longer. It’s even more cost-effective and easier to do than painting. Before heading to your nearest lumber supply to stock up on equipment for your project, here are a few tips on wood staining.  

How to Stain Wood Surfaces 

1. Sand the Surface

First, you’ll need to prepare the wood by sanding it with the right grit of sandpaper. Doing this is essential because the stain will highlight areas that are too rough and won’t stick properly to areas that are too smooth. Your local lumber supply store may help you with the correct coarseness. You can also choose to do progressive sanding—from coarse to fine. Another trick is to cover your hand with a thin sock; when nothing snags the fabric when you run it on the surface, the wood is ready for staining.

2. Choose the Right Stain

There are two general types of stains—dye and pigment. Pigment stains are more common and available at your local lumber supply store. They work best for open-grained wood, such as mahogany and oak. These types of wood have large pores and visible textures. Thus, pigment stains made of colored dirt can coat these surfaces thoroughly. Conversely, dye stains work best for closed-grained, dense wood like maple and hickory. However, you need woodwork professionals to mix these stains. The ease of application and finish depend on the base material of stains. You can use a brush or a rug to apply an oil-based stain. It also has a smoother finish but takes a while to dry. Water-based stains, however, have less chemical smell and dry quickly.

3. Apply in Coats

When you’re not familiar with the wood’s absorption capacity, staining can be tricky. Once the color sets, it becomes difficult to remove. To avoid splotches on the surface, apply thin layers of the stain. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before adding another layer. By doing so, you avoid pushing the previous layer with the fresh coat. Repeat the process until you achieve your desired tone.

Give your home a fresh, new look with wood staining. For your lumber supply needs, contact Huber Lumber. The locally owned and operated company has been catering to residential and commercial clients in the Greater Cincinnati, OH, area for over 100 years. Their home improvement services include kitchen design and deck supply. Visit them online or call (513) 731-4035 to learn more about their services.