Use a gel stain on hardwoods.
When inexperienced homeowners attempt to finish wood in or around their home, they often end up with unfortunate complications stemming from a lack of knowledge. Before you attempt to finish any wood surface, learn the strategies professionals use to generate uniform, attractive finishes that stand the test of time.
Lightening
If you're planning to refinish wood already finished with a dark stain, lighten the existing stain first to generate an attractive finish. This is best accomplished by wiping the wood with paint stripping solvent. Wear protective goggles, rubber gloves and a respirator. Scrub the wood with paint stripping solvent using a nylon pad. Once the wood is lightened to your taste, stop wiping and allow 15 minutes for the solvent to evaporate.
Sanding
Sanding wood helps to remove existing varnish which would inhibit absorption of the new finish. Sanding also smooths the surface. Use coarse sandpaper to strip down existing finishes; switch to fine-grit sandpaper to smooth rough wood. Splintering can occur due to improper sanding techniques. You can prevent this by moving the sandpaper in the direction of the wood grain.
Absorption
Many do-it-yourselfers approach a wood finishing project with enthusiasm, but are disappointed when they end up with uneven, splotchy-looking results. This happens when the wood finish dries unevenly, usually because of inconsistent absorption. While softwoods accept any type of stain, hardwoods, such as oak, maple and cherry, have dense grain patterns that repel stain. If you want to promote a uniform finish on hardwoods, apply a thicker gel stain; avoid liquid stains which are better suited for pine, cedar and other softwoods.
Sealer
To prolong the life of stained wood apply a protective sealer over the top. Varnish is well-suited for interior woods used to make trim and furniture. A solvent-based polyurethane sealer is appropriate for exterior woods. Compatibility is critical to promoting a lasting finish that won't flake. Be sure to use a solvent based polyurethane over the top of oil-based stains; don't use water-based polyurethane, or flaking will occur.
Tools
The right tools make wood finishing efficient; the wrong tools can create unfortunate complications. Natural-bristled paintbrushes are appropriate for use with oil- and solvent-based finishes. Synthetic brushes are suited for water-based finishes. Don't mistake one for the other, or you will end up with disappointing results. Wash the tools, using the correct substance: water for synthetic brushes, mineral spirits for natural-bristled ones.
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