Wood Prepping: The Basics of Exterior Staining Prep

Wood Preparing

1. The Basics of Exterior Staining Prep
2. Essential Tools and Materials for Staining Prep Work
3. Examine the area to be stained
4. WARNING!
5. Test the surface
6. Make any necessary repairs
7. Identify surface contaminants

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The Basics of Exterior Staining Prep

Superior performance begins with methodical surface preparation. Follow these prep steps to achieve long-lasting, professional results.

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Essential Tools and Materials for Staining Prep Work

Here's everything you'll need to get it right the first time.

• Clean cloth
• Garden Pump Sprayer
• Cabot Problem Solver Wood Cleaner
• Scraper
• Scrub brush or power washer
• Ladder
• Safety Glasses
• Rubber Gloves
• Cabot Problem Solver Brightener (for extractive issues)

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Examine the area to be stained

First check the general condition of the wood. Is there any erosion, rot or decay? Make any necessary repairs. You must remove any and all such contaminants before staining. Use Cabot Problem Solver Wood Cleaner with a scrub brush or power washer.

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WARNING!

If you scrape, sand, or remove old paint, you may release lead dust. LEAD IS TOXIC. EXPOSURE TO LEAD DUST CAN CAUSE SERIOUS ILLNESS, SUCH AS BRAIN DAMAGE, ESPECIALLY IN CHILDREN. PREGNANT WOMEN SHOULD ALSO AVOID EXPOSURE. Wear a NIOSH-approved respirator to control lead exposure. Clean up carefully with a HEPA vacuum and a wet mop. Before you start, find out how to protect yourself and your family by contacting the National Lead Information Hotline at 1-800-424-LEAD or log onto www.epa.gov/lead.

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Test the surface

First, press a piece of household tape firmly against the surface to be stained, then tear it away and examine the back. The presence of old stain or loose wood fibers on the tape could mean a potential problem. The surface must be dry at the time of staining.

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Make any necessary repairs

Before staining, replace rotting or decayed wood. Remove loose stain and eroded wood fibers by sanding, scraping, or power washing the problem surfaces.

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Identify surface contaminants

Once the surface is in good condition, re-inspect for dirt, mildew, cedar bleed, chalkiness and other foreign substances. It is important to identify each type of contaminant, as each requires its own treatment.