How to paint over stained wood? Can you paint over stained wood? Yes, but let’s clarify what we’re talking about. We’re talking about wood that has had a stain applied to it, not wood that’s covered with grease or dirt stains.
Franklin Painting of Farmington, CT, would like to share a few tips on painting over stained wood that will help you bring about a more pleasing result.
How to Paint Over Stained Wood
Repair
Before you begin painting, carefully inspect the wood surface for any imperfections such as holes, missing chunks, cracks, or other types of damage. It’s important to fill in these areas using a suitable wood filler or putty, ensuring that the material is applied evenly. Once the filler has dried completely, sand the surface until it is smooth and level with the surrounding area, creating a consistent base that will help the paint adhere properly and result in a clean, professional-looking finish.
Cleaning
Before painting any surface, it is a good idea to clean it. This might be a simple brushing off, or it might require wiping down with a damp rag or using a mild detergent. Let the surface dry completely after cleaning.
Sanding
Stained wood, if it is clean and not blemished, doesn’t necessarily have to be sanded before painting. However, a smoother finish will be obtained by gentle sanding with 150- or 200-grit sandpaper.
If there’s lacquer or varnish on the wood and you see signs of peeling or flaking, sand well with 120-grit sandpaper.
Primer
People have painted over stained wood without using a primer and produced good results. But it’s always smart to prime any kind of wood before painting, and this includes stained wood.
The primer will seal the wood’s natural knots and pores while masking varying shades within the surface to keep them from showing through the finished paint. Stain-blocking primer usually works well when painting stained wood. Make sure to follow the instructions.
Paint Types
Assuming the surface is in good shape (as per the suggestions above), most paints will perform well on stained wood. You don’t have to use a strong, smelly oil-based paint, but you can.
Latex and acrylic latex paints from leading makers like Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore are fine choices for painting over most stained wood. You can also lacquer or shellac the wood. In some applications, you can even use a quality spray paint (from a can).
Preparing For The Job
People who paint for a living will tell you that the work is more about preparation than actual painting. Preparation starts with tools and equipment. You want to purchase top-quality brushes, rollers, paint and primer. Many a paint job has been ruined by using inexpensive, bargain-brand products.
If the stained wood surfaces you’ll be painting are large – such as a staircase or a bookcase – move items in the room away from the work area. Also, cover items if you’ll be doing a lot of sanding.
Designate a space near the work area for everything you will need for the job: paint, brushes, rollers, roller trays, putty knives, hammers, screwdrivers, cleaning solution, rags, paper towels, etc. You don’t want to have to stop what you’re doing to go looking for something you need.
Turn The Job Over To Professionals
If your painting project is too involved and lengthy, Franklin Painting is here to take over. Nothing is too involved or lengthy for us, and we guarantee a finished result that will thrill and amaze you.
Speak with one of our Connecticut painting professionals by phone or reach out with our simple contact form.
