How to Stain Wood Siding

Step-by-step Wood Staining Guide

How to Stain Wood Siding

How to Stain Wood Siding

How to Stain Wood Siding

Do you have questions about your wood staining project? Staining wood siding is a lot easier than you may think. If you follow this step-by-step guide, you will quickly and easily learn how to stain siding, and then enjoy the benefits it brings to your property. 

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Step 1 - Choosing the Wood Stain
Step 1 - Choosing the Wood Stain
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Choosing the Wood Stain

Step 1

Choosing the Wood Stain

If you don’t want to change the wood’s color, then Waterguard Clear Waterproofing Sealant will protect the wood while letting it’s natural beauty shine through. Otherwise, there are a lot of exciting wood stain colors to choose from.

You may want to complement the color of your deck, outdoor furniture, or shed. You can also use a neutral shade that works with any background or décor.

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Step 2 - Pick The Right Day
Step 2 - Pick The Right Day
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Pick The Right Day

Step 2

Pick The Right Day

The most important thing to do before you stain is to pick the right day. Generally, stain needs to be applied on a sunny day, as opposed to a cloudy and muggy day. The temperature can’t be too hot or too cold. Take a look at the weather forecast and plan your staining day accordingly.

For more leeway with timing your staining project use Olympic MAXIMUM wood stains, with weather-ready technology.

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Step 3 - Examine the Wood
Step 3 - Examine the Wood
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Examine the Wood

Step 3

Examine the Wood

Fully inspect the wood for any rough or broken areas that you believe could cause issues with application.

Fix any problem areas you find.

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Step 4 - Clean the Wood
Step 4 - Clean the Wood
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Clean the Wood

Step 4

Clean the Wood

Use a wood cleaner like Olympic® Premium Deck Cleaner on your siding prior to staining. It is important to apply the wood cleaner in an even and uniform way. Additionally, make sure that you follow all safety precautions in order to protect yourself when using the wood cleaner. 

After applying the cleaning agent, use a soft bristle brush or mop to scrub away all the debris and grime. You will need to allow the siding to dry before moving on to the next step.

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Please refer to the Product Label, Technical Data Sheet (TDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for safety and detailed application instructions.

Olympic Staining Tip


Always test a small, hidden area, using the same number of coats you will be using on the siding and let it dry so that you can be sure to get the wood stain color you want. 


Step 5 - Stain the Siding
Step 5 - Stain the Siding
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Stain the Siding

Step 5

Stain the Siding

Apply the stain using a brush, roller, or a hand-pumped stain sprayer. 

No matter the method you use, make sure to apply an even coat to the siding. Cover the entire surface. 

If you see areas that are blotchy or where the stain puddles, quickly use a brush or roller to smooth these areas out.

It can take anywhere from 24 to 48 hours for the stain to fully dry, depending on the humidity and weather in your area.

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Please refer to the Product Label, Technical Data Sheet (TDS) or Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for safety and detailed application instructions.