Amount Of Exterior Stain Coats?

The number of wood stain coats is crucial for the quality, durability, and coverage of a finish. For interior use, one coat is sufficient, but a second coat can intensify the shade or darken the surface if desired. For exterior stain, a second coat is often recommended.

Woodluxe® Translucent, Semi-Transparent, and Semi-Solid stains need only one coat, while Woodluxe Solid stains may require two thin coats for optimal durability. Before applying deck stain, ensure the deck has been cleaned properly and sprinkle water on it. Working with the wood grain, apply an even coat. To determine the amount of wood stain needed for your project, use the Cabot® project calculator. Most manufacturers recommend applying two coats of stain to a deck for optimal results.

For oil-based deck stain, you will need 1 to 2 coats, and 2 to 3 coats for water-based deck stain. Water-based stain formulas call for 2-3 coats per application, building up layers to protect the wood from the outside versus the inside. A couple at most is generally better than one, as the deck should absorb the first coat well after being properly cleaned.

To ensure the desired color, test the wood to ensure the desired color is achieved. The deck should be sealed after the first coat, and two coats are generally better than one. If the deck has been properly cleaned, it should absorb the first coat well into the wood.