Last Updated on January 30, 2023 by TWP Help
What is the Shelf Life of TWP Wood Stains in 2024
After an exterior staining project with TWP, Total Wood Preservative Stain you may have some extra leftover. Or you may have bought some TWP wood stain intending to use it and just haven’t got around to it. Whether you have some leftovers or the season ended before you could use it, TWP wood stain will store and keep fresh with proper care.
TWP Wood Stain Shelf Life
TWP Wood Stain Shelf Life
TWP Wood Preservative has a shelf life of several years if it has been unopened. So if you ran out of time at the end of the season do not worry, you can still use it when you are ready. If the TWP stain has sat around for a while, it is recommended to take the stain to a paint store and have them shake the cans up before using them.
If you used TWP stain and have some leftovers, the extra will last about 1 year as long as the lid is completely resealed. If the lid is not sealed properly evaporation of the stain solvents will occur and the stain will become thicker and be rendered useless. Be sure the lid is completely sealed to stop any evaporation from happening. This will ensure the leftover TWP can be used on your next wood maintenance project.
Note: Unopened TWP Stain has a shelf life of about 2-3 years as long as it is stored in a temperature-controlled room.
Tips for Storing TWP Wood Stain
When storing TWP stain it is best to keep it in a cool dry place preferably at room temperature.
It should be kept out of direct sunlight if possible.
Oil-based stains like TWP can be stored in colder weather and in some instances even below freezing. The oil formula will simply thicken, unlike water-based stains that would actually freeze solid. With that said if you have a choice and can bring the stain into the basement or partially heated garage for the winter that would be best.
If you have several partial cans of TWP stain it is best to combine them to make a full can. The less empty space in the can the better. The air above the stain will cause skin or gel to form on the surface. This can be removed but it is better to have one full can and just a little left in another than to have two partially half-full cans of TWP stain.
Be sure the lid is on tight to eliminate the solvents from evaporating.
As soon as you finish a project it is helpful to mark on the lid what you used the TWP stain for. This way when you use the stain a year or two later you won’t have to guess.
Follow these storage tips to increase the shelf life of your TWP wood and deck stains and they will last for several years saving you money.
Ok it is time to refresh my deck. I applied TWP 1501 Cedartone, so what are the proper steps?
It does not look terrible but I do not want to wait that long. I was thinking I read way back before I stained all I would need to do is wash it, let dry and apply a new coat of 1501. My memory is not perfect so your guidance is requested.
Prep with this kit and then recoat.
https://www.twpstain.com/gemini-s-restore-a-deck-cleaner-and-brightener-kit
Hello – I just bought stain to “re-stain” my deck. However, I do have stain from the last time I did the effort. After opening the container there were very little “solids” and the stain appeared to be in good shape. However, how do I tell if it is ok to use? Is there any issue with using it first or should I test it somehow? Thanks so much . . .
It has probably gone bad if over 2 years.
What is required to to remove the lid off the 5 gallon bucket
Pry up the tabs on the sides with a screw driver.
My 5 gallon bucket of TWP wood stain was all clumpy and juicy when I opened it today. It was sealed well and stored at about 60 degrees at the coldest. I have shook it and stirred it but still has tennis ball-sized clumps.
Is there anyway to use it still?
No, it has gone bad.
How can I remove twp100? I would like to use a solid color water based stain for more even color.
The areas under roof still look ok and still repels water but areas in sun mildewed badly and not even color and finish is now mostly gone.
Use this kit: https://www.twpstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit-detail
We are having composite put on top of our deck because we’re tired of replacing ratted boards. We are now replacing joists under the deck that are rotted. They were never stained. The contractor wants to use kilz mold and mildew primer on them and then paint them. We have 3 5 gal can of TWP from when we stained or deck 2 yrs ago. It’s twp100 and we live in a high humidity area (Alabama). Does the TWp 100 have mold and mildew protection in it? Could we use it instead of paying for new primer and paint? If not do you have some we can add to the stain to prevent mold and mildew? Thank you
TWP has a mildewcide in it already.
What solvent can I use to thin twp stain
You cannot thin TWP.
What’s the difference between the 100 and 1500 series? I have the 102 on my deck now and am ready to restain. Which is better/which should I purchase?
Difference is VOCs and what is allowed in certain states. Stick with what you used prior.
How long between coats?can u do in a couple of days?temperature changing 40 degrees to 70 degrees then back down. Is this okay for 100 pro series clear?
If doing a second coat it needs to be wet on wet or second coat goes on 20-45 minutes after the first.
Thank you, J am good .
How can i tell if old stain is usable for a water seal on the top edges on a new deck?
It would be clumpy and skinning on top of the stain if it has gone bad.
I live in western Washington state which appears to be be code compliant for TWP 100.
I am staining ruff-sawn vertical ceder fencing. I intend to use Cedartone. Do you recommend TWP 100 or 1500 for this application?
You can use either series for this and it will last the same for rough sawn wood.
Just did my deck w/ TWP – 3rd application over past few years. Powerwashed-let dry 48 hrs. & applied stain- waited 48 hrs.- still sticky- never happened before- what do I do? love this product
Sounds like you did not prep correctly. See this for tips: https://twpstainhelp.com/twp-stain-is-spotty-or-shiny/
Can leftover semi transparent stain in a 5gal pail be placed in a smaller container to prevent evaporation thus prolonging shelf life? What other type containers would be suitable or unsuitable?
No, it is not possible to make it last longer after being opened.
from your web site; Tips for Storing TWP Wood Stain
When storing TWP stain it is best to keep it in a cool dry place preferably at room temperature.
It should be kept out of direct sunlight if possible.
Oil-based stains like TWP can be stored in colder weather and in some instances even below freezing. The oil formula will simply thicken, unlike water-based stains that would actually freeze solid. With that said if you have a choice and can bring the stain into the basement or partially heated garage for the winter that would be best.
If you have several partial cans of TWP stain it is best to combine them to make a full can. The less empty space in the can the better. The air above the stain will cause skin or gel to form on the surface. This can be removed but it is better to have one full can and just a little left in another than to have two partially half-full cans of TWP stain.
Be sure the lid is on tight to eliminate the solvents from evaporating.
As soon as you finish a project it is helpful to mark on the lid what you used the TWP stain for. This way when you use the stain a year or two later you won’t have to guess.
Follow these storage tips to increase the shelf life of your TWP wood and deck stains and they will last for several years saving you money.

Now I am confused
These are tips to extend an open container’s life. There is no guarantee it will last more than 12 months if the container is opened but following these steps will maximize it. Once it goes bad, you cannot bring it back to usability.
Can leftover semi transparent stain in a 5gal pail be covered with foil or plastic to prevent evaporation thus prolonging shelf life?
How long should I let my TWP 100 Pro series clear sealant dry before putting deck furniture back on my deck?
12-24 hours.
how do you get the lid off 5 gal can? would be nice if you had a pour spout for us winey women
Use a flat head screwdriver and pry up each tab.
Can TWP Stain be thinned
No, it cannot.
What is the difference between the 100 series and the 1500 series.
https://www.twpstain.com/difference-between-twp-100-and-1500-series
I have about 2-3 gallons in a 5 gallon bucket left over from staining a fence. I plan to use it in the spring for a maintenance coat on my deck. I have 2 empty 1 gallon cans, but they might not hold all the stain I have left. Could I use a milk jug or some other plastic storage container for the stain that won’t fit in my 1 gallon cans? Will the stain soften the plastic and make an awful mess? I have some empty wide mouth plastic jars (peanuts)…..would they work?
I applied this on my deck last year for the first time can I put it on again this year or is it too early?
You can do another coat after prep: https://www.twpstain.com/gemini-s-restore-a-deck-cleaner-and-brightener-kit
Does twp have a water based deck stain
Can I thin twp 101cedar stain, it sat for 1 year and has gotten thick and a bit pasty.?
No, it has gone bad.
I just stained my deck with TWP 1500 and a friend spilled citronella candle wax on part of it. I’ve read that once it’s dry you can scrape it with a credit card or spoon etc, and then use paper bag and iron to get remainder out of grooves…will this ruin the stain? What is the best way to remove it without ruining my recent stain job? The wax was spilled across about 10×10 inches of my deck 😡any suggestions would be helpful. Thanks!
There is not a way to remove the wax and not harm the stain. The be honest, we doubt you will be able remove the wax anyhow.
So you have no recommendations for removing the wax from deck? I just scraped most of it off and don’t think I removed much of the stain. There are some stuck in the wood grain and worried if I use an iron and paper bag to remove it that the stain will heat up and come off onto paper bag too. I literally just stained last week, and would prefer to not have to use the extreme methods Of using paint thinner or start over. Could I do the iron method and then reapply a thin coat of stain?
I doubt it will work but go ahead and try. It usually ends up that you have to replace the boards. No one that we know of has ever been able to get the wax fully out of the wood.
I live in Pflugerville TX, about 10 miles north of the
Capitol city of Austin. The low temps here at night are in the high 60s low 70s. Daytime highs are 91-93. I am planning on using the Restore a Deck and TWP 1500 on my deck both already purchased. Starting the stain around 7 or 8 am the deck stairs will begin to be in sun about 11-11:30.
The entire deck will be in sun about 1pm with full shade at 6-6:30. I am concerned about the sun on the new stain right after it is applied for an extended period of time of 5-6 hours. Please advise. Thanks.
No issues.
After cleaning/ pressure washing our wood has fuzzy texture/appearance. What should we do prior to staining?
You do not have to do anything but if you want, just lightly sand. 60-80 grit paper.
I just finished applying the pecan stain a few weeks ago. My deck is 2 years old. I used the cleaner and brightener as directed with a power washer and applied the stain wet on wet. It looked wonderful until it got wet. It beads up perfectly but the water is leaving white marks. I do have hard water, but not certain if I should reapply stain on these areas or ??? Thank you
The is not from the stain but mineral deposits from the water. Should wipe off with a wet rag. Reapplying would not do anything.
We ordered a 5 gallon and 1 gallon can of 1500 in July. We are now finally ready to apply the stain. Do we need to take the cans to a local paint store to shake or is stirring the cans adequate?
Stir well with a paint paddle drill mixer that fits on your drill.
Thank you!
New PT pine deck weathering for 6 months. Using twp 100. Do I really need to brighten or can I just pressure clean?
Clean and brighten the wood: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
What is coverage of twp 100 Rustic on new pressure treated pine? Thanks
About 150-200 sq feet per gallon.
I have a apil of stain that is 8 years old and rusted, is it any good?
Sorry but most likely no.
Can TWP be used on landing just inside back door that gets heavy use
No, not for inside.
What is your return policy?
https://www.twpstain.com/refund
Last year we applied TWP 1500 and were very pleased with the outcome, but now it we are not. Any suggestions?
Canby Ca
TWP 1500
Cedar and redwood
2 years old
Sand prepped
2 coats wet on wet application
Sanding is the incorrect prep. It closes the pores of the wood so the stain cannot soak in resulting in the stain drying on top of the surface instead of in the wood grain. This is why you have an issue.
Best to prep with the Gemini Restore Kit and pressure washing and apply one coat of the stain.
That was what we had done originally, but we had a million bugs come land in the stain while it was wet. I contacted this website and I thought was instructed to sand and restrain to remove the bugs. I’ll have to look through the posts from last year
Is my resealed 5 Gallon 1500 Stain still good after 1 year? I hammer the tabs down really well around the entire thing. It was stored in basement that doesn’t get too cold. I think when tipped it that it didn’t leak at all so thought seal was good.
I haven’t opened it yet but hoped to use it soon for a new coat this year.
Is it still good? How will I know?
If it has thickened up, skinned, or has thick clumps, it has gone bad.
is their anyway loosen it up if it is too thick to use?
Sorry but no.
After reading about storing extra stain, we have over half of the 5 gallons left because while it worked wonderfully on our main deck, we intended to use the stripper on our boardwalk and stain it the same, but the other brand solid stain must have had some paint in it, so 30% wouldn’t come off. Even considered putting it on what was uncovered, but decided not to waste it. MAIN QUESTION IS: The 5 gallon bucket mailed to us was extremely dented (the middle was dented almost to the middle of the can. We used a rubber mallet to seal the lid, but I’m concerned it might not make a good enough seal, or that there might be pinholes where the metal bent so much. Will it last like you said? Any suggestions?
You can transfer it to a plastic pail/lid. You can get those at your local store.
It’s not quite that simple. Just prying the tabs doesn’t work. I had to use heavy plyers and pry the tabs back to 90 degrees of the pail…..but I got it and appreciate your reply.
how do you open a 5 gallon of 100 stain
Pry the tabs back with a screwdriver.
Is there a mildewcide that could enhance TWP 1501 Cedartone stain? Replaced the product the builder had used on Cedar Screen porch with cement pad 6 summers ago with TWP 1501 Cedartone 3 years ago. Results less mildew with the TWP but still shows mildew.
There is already an EPA registered mildewcide in the TWP. Adding more would not help and could have issues.
We are going to be putting up New Cedar siding on our home. The cedar is tight knot smooth dried cedar siding. Because it is dried can we put two coats on. We were thinking on dipping the wood and then once its up put another coat on the outside. Is this possible with the TWP?
If this is smooth wood then you cannot pre-stain wor applying two coats. it needs to be installed, weathered for 4+ months, and prepped befoe applying. See here for tips: https://twpstainhelp.com/prepping-new-wood-for-twp-stains/
What is the consistency supposed to be? We just reopened a gallon can of the 100 series that had been stored in a closet for a couple months and it seems really watery. We just want to make sure that is correct before we go using it.
Thin and consistent similar to water is correct. Make sure it does not have any skinning on the surface or clumps.
Is there a trick to opening and closing the 100 series 5 gallon bucket? I had a heck of time getting it open and now that my project is done, I want to make sure I seal it properly so I can reuse when needed. Is there a special tool to use?
The 5 gallon containers cannot be closed 100% after opening and when done. If you have any leftover stain, best to transfer this to a small container(s). You can purchase small one gallon containers at your local hardware store.
Will I have to restain my fence within six years if I use TWP 1500 stain?
On vertical wood, TWP typically lasts about 4-6 years.
Can TWP 100 stain be stored in plastic containers such as an old hydraulic oil 5 gallon bucket? The seal on my metal lid is deformed and I’m concerned it is not sealing completely. The buckets for the oil have been cleaned and have a good sealing lid.
I just purchased 2 gal. Of TWP 101 ceder stain the dealer told me he had shaken can to mix but when I opened can all color was at bottom. I only have paint stir sticks and it is almost impossible to get color from bottom of can to mix ???
With the stir sticks or a drill mixer will work.
If the lid is on tight and doesn’t leak store the can upside down (Lid on the bottom). Nothing can evaporate through a fully sealed can. It is an old trick many plumbers use for their leftover epoxy and cements. Helps things last years and ensures it will always be ready when you need it!
I stained my pressure treated wooden deck with 1515 Honeytone in 2012. Love it!!! Can I put another coat on this year without stripping it?? If so what would the prep process be?
Yes but you will need to prep first with the Gemini Restore Kit first and you may need two coats since it has been 3 years.
I have stored some TWP 100 for 2 years, a 5 gallon pail 1/2 full. It has thickened some about the consistency of an interior latex paint. After thoroughly mixing I have stained a small section of cedar siding, it looks good, but should I be concerned with the change of viscosity?
It is no longer good at this point.
What is the shelf life of an never-opened gallon can of TWP 100? Should it be shaken?
Yes it needs to be shaken or stirred well. 2 to 3 years if unopened.
Yes that is fine.