Staining trim molding is an integral part of the trim process. If you stain trim before you cut and install it, rather than after, you save time by eliminating extra steps, such as taping and covering floors to prevent drips. The amount of time required to stain trim before cutting will vary depending on the size of your project; however, it can be done in as little as 2 hours. Follow these simple steps to save time and produce eye-pleasing results.
Instructions
1. Determine the amount of stain necessary for staining the trim molding. Line all of the trim molding up side by side. Measure the length and the width of the trim and multiply to get total square footage. For example, if you have trim that's 10 feet long and 20 feet wide, multiply 10 by 20 to get 200 square feet. Divide that number by the coverage capacity of one can of stain. For example, if one can of stain will cover 200 square feet, then divide 200 by 200. You will need 1 can of stain for the job.
2. Choose the kind of stain, either water-based or oil-based. Oil-based tends to smell stronger than water-based, but it's more durable. Water-based stain cleans up better.
3. Lay as many pieces of trim out onto saw horses that you can fit at one time. Leave a few inches between each piece. You may need to use three saw horses so the trim doesn't bounce up and down while you're working.
4. Lightly sand the trim to smooth the surface. Use a fine-grain sandpaper for a finer finish.
5. Apply a wood conditioner to the trim so that the stain application will be uniform and even. Stain applied to different grains sometimes looks blotchy. Wood conditioner makes the wood receive the stain more evenly. Apply the conditioner by wiping with a rag. Allow it to set for 3 to 4 hours.
6. Wipe the stain onto the wood using the stain rags. Try not to apply too much at once, or the stain will run. Instead, apply several coats spaced 2 hours apart.
Tags: save time, square feet, stain trim, , stain will
