Tag:

TWP Stain Instructions

Prepping New Wood For TWP Stains

by TWP Help January 10, 2025

posted by TWP Help

TWP Stain Tips for New Wood Decks in 2025

Preparing New Wood for TWP Stains

When applying TWP Wood Stains to new wood for the first time, following the correct preparation steps is crucial. New smooth wood or decking is not ready for staining before installation or immediately after. Always adhere to the TWP Wood Stain guidelines rather than relying on advice from a lumber yard or paint store, as they may not fully understand the prep requirements for optimal results.

TWP and New Smooth Decking or Exterior Wood

New smooth wood is not sufficiently absorbent for TWP Stains due to higher moisture content and the presence of “mill glaze.” Mill glaze is a waxy film that forms during the milling process when high-speed blades heat the wood, drawing out sap and moisture. As this cools and dries, it creates a coating that prevents TWP Stain from properly penetrating the wood grain.

Important Note:

New Rough Sawn Wood/Fencing: Unlike smooth wood, new rough sawn vertical wood or fencing can be stained immediately after installation without waiting or extensive preparation, as it lacks mill glaze and is highly absorbent.
Ensure the rough sawn wood is fully dry before staining. If it has aged or oxidized (turned gray), prep it using the Gemini Restore Kit before application. For newly installed rough sawn wood, one coat of stain is usually sufficient.

Proper preparation ensures your TWP stain delivers its intended durability and beauty, whether you’re working with smooth or rough sawn wood.

2,352 comments

TWP Stain Wet on Wet Application

by TWP Help April 11, 2022

posted by TWP Help

TWP with Wet on Wet Application Tips

TWP Stains are to be applied “Wet on Wet” when the wood is absorbent enough to handle more than 1 coat of the stain. This is typically for wood and decking that is older than 12 months and has been exposed to the elements. Applying the TWP “wet on wet” is similar to applying 1.5 coats of stain. The second coat covers twice as much square footage as the first coat.

Applying TWP “wet on wet” is very easy and not complicated once you understand the simple steps.

1,496 comments

Rain Before and After TWP Stain Application

by TWP Help January 10, 2025

posted by TWP Help

Tips on Rain when applying the TWP Wood Stains 2025

Key Considerations for a Successful Deck Staining Project with TWP Stain

Staining your deck is a rewarding project, but proper planning is essential to achieve the best results. Weather, wood preparation, and timing all play critical roles in the success of your staining effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you complete your project with confidence.

Step 1: Plan for Ideal Weather

Rain is the biggest challenge when staining a deck with TWP or any stain. For optimal results:

Check the weather forecast several days in advance.
Ensure no rain is predicted for at least three consecutive days:
1. Day 1 & 2: Time to clean and let the wood dry.
2. Day 3: Ideal for applying the stain.

If rain occurs after washing but before staining, allow the wood to dry for an additional two days.

Step 2: Prepare the Wood

Before applying TWP stain, the wood must be clean and prepped:

Use a high-quality wood cleaner to remove dirt, grime, and old finishes.
Follow with a wood brightener to restore the wood’s pH balance and enhance stain absorption.

After cleaning, let the wood dry thoroughly. Use a moisture meter to ensure the wood’s moisture content is between 12-15% before staining. If you don’t have a meter, waiting two days after cleaning is typically sufficient under dry conditions.

Step 3: Staining and Weather Challenges

Once the wood is ready and the weather is clear, apply TWP stain under dry conditions. However, TWP stain offers a unique advantage:

As a deep-penetrating, oil-based stain, it is not film-forming.
A light rain, even as soon as 1 hour after application, will bead on the surface without causing damage.

Despite this resilience, dry weather remains the ideal scenario for both application and curing.

Why TWP Stain is a Great Choice

TWP’s deep-penetrating formula ensures long-lasting protection by blocking moisture deep within the wood fibers. While it can handle light rain soon after application, proper planning and preparation will ensure your deck looks its best and stays protected for years to come.

37 comments

Dry and Curing Time of TWP Wood Deck Stains

by TWP Help January 30, 2023

posted by TWP Help

Dry and Curing for TWP Stains. How long does it take?

It is good to know the dry and curing time of TWP (Total Wood Preservative) Stain prior to applying. Some people get in too big of a rush and want to start putting furniture, plants, grills, etc. back onto a wood surface too soon after staining. It is best to allow TWP to fully dry and cure before allowing foot traffic and items to be placed on the surface.

Drying and curing time for TWP may vary depending on climate and weather conditions. Over application can also affect dry and curing times. TWP should dry evenly flat with no glossy areas. Glossy areas indicate over-application of the product and will extend the dry and curing time of TWP. To avoid over applying TWP, allow the stain to soak into the bare wood for 30 minutes then wipe away or back brush any excess stain that has not penetrated the surface. Do not apply TWP if rain is expected within 48 hours. TWP can withstand light rain within an hour or so of being applied but it is best to wait for dry conditions prior to staining.

81 comments

TWP Stains and Moisture Content

by TWP Help January 30, 2023

posted by TWP Help

Moisture Content of Wood When Applying TWP

Whether the wood you are staining is new or more aged, the moisture content is an important factor in the timing of stain application. Applying TWP or most any wood stain for that matter to a wood surface that is still holding too much moisture can result in many problematic issues. Trapping moisture in wood can promote the growth of mold and mildew. A moist and mildew infected environment can lead to wood decay and rot. This should be avoided at all costs. Wood rot will most likely progress to structural damage causing expensive repairs and replacements.

After the wood surface has been cleaned and prepped correctly prior to staining, it should be allowed to air dry for several days depending on the age, condition, and porosity of the wood. A good rule of thumb is to let the surface dry for several days before staining and do not stain if rain is expected. A deck that is mostly shaded may take a day or two longer to dry than a deck that sits in full sun all day. Weather and climate can also be a factor.

30 comments

How to Apply TWP to a Fence

by TWP Help January 30, 2023

posted by TWP Help

TWPStainHelp.com Tips: How to Apply TWP Wood Stains to a Fence

Wood fences have been around for many years and can provide beauty, protection, and privacy to any home. Like other wood structures, wood fences need to be treated to keep them from becoming weather damaged. The key is to block out harmful UV rays and moisture. Using an easy to apply TWP formula wood stain can help preserve your fence for many years.

118 comments

Applying a Maintenance Coat of TWP

by TWP Help January 30, 2023

posted by TWP Help

Tips for Applying a Maintenance Coat of TWP

Wood maintenance is different from a complete wood restoration. Restoring a wood surface means bringing it back to a like-new appearance from a neglected state or deciding to switch from one stain type to another. Wood maintenance, on the other hand, is an ongoing process to keep well-kept wood looking good. Wood maintenance is simply cleaning and recoating the wood with the same wood stain that was previously used.

371 comments

Application Instructions for TWP Stains

by TWP Help January 30, 2023

posted by TWP Help

The Application Instructions – TWPStainHelp.com

You have made the decision to use TWP wood preservatives to ensure the lasting beauty of your exterior wood surfaces. By using TWP deck stain and following some helpful guidelines you can get professional-like results.

Before applying TWP wood stain it is important that the wood is cleaned and prepped correctly so the stain will perform as expected. Clean the wood using a wood cleaner and a stiff brush or pressure washer to agitate the wood and remove any unwanted contaminants. We recommend using a product like the Gemini Restore-A-Deck Kit. This is a two-part deck restoration system containing a deck cleaner and brightener that is extremely effective and eco-friendly.

143 comments