Tips for Staining Pine and other Softwoods

Problems and solutions for staining wood surfaces outdoors

Problem: Stain looks blotchy and does not absorb evenly.

Cause #1: Mill glaze (new pine) that feels and looks smooth but is difficult for stains to penetrate.

Cause #2: Dirty or cleaned with a solution that is high or low pH.

Cause #3: Previous stains have worn off in high traffic areas but not others.

Cause #4: Sanding with one grit of sandpaper and a different grit somewhere else.

Solution: Lightly sand with 100-150 grit evenly to remove the glaze or stains and open the pores.

 

Problem: Pressure Treated Pine will not take stain

Cause #1: Pressure treatments are still fresh which prevents stains from penetration or adhering to the wood.

Solution: Allow pine 6 months to one year to weather or season with nothing on them before attempting to stain or paint.

 

Problem: Previous stain or paint is peeling/flaking off

Cause #1: Surface was not primed properly

Cause #2 : The surface paint or stain was applied to was dirty.

Cause #3: The underside/backside of the wood was not sealed and moisture migrates up through the surface.

Solution: Always clean, sand and prime new wood before painting and seal the backside if possible.

 

Problem: Stain is wearing off or fading too quickly.

Cause #1: Clear coatings lack UV protection and gray in 1-2 years.

Cause #2: Pigmented stains were not applied heavy enough or with the correct number of coats.

Cause #3: Stain is in direct Southern sun all day with no protection or has excessive moisture on it.

Solution: Pigmented stains work best if applied over freshly sanded wood. They will hold up longer if maintained every few years rather than allowing them to grey out. Northern and Eastern exposures require less maintenance but all colors will eventually fade.

 

Problem: Lap marks, steaking and variations in color

Cause #1 Water-based stains dry super fast making it hard to keep a wet edge.

Cause #2 Uneven sanding will allow more pigment to absorb in rougher grain.

Solution: Lightly mist or wipe down the surface of the wood with damp rag before staining to help even out the stain and slow down the dry time.

Solution: Finish off with the same grit sandpaper evenly throughout the project.

Solution: Do not exceed 120-150 grit or it will close the pores.