Adding wooden windows to a house brings an old warm charm and elegance that cannot be equaled by modern thermal pane metal and vinyl frame windows. In addition to natural beauty, a well-finished and well-maintained wood window can last for the better part of a century. This far out performs the 25-year life expectancy of its modern cousins. So how do you get that quality, rich, warm woodgrain finish you admire so much? It's easy with a few tools and a little know how. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Stain and Supplies
1. Decide whether you will use water- or oil-based stain. Both come in a variety of colors. Water based is easier to work, usually a bit more expensive and may not last as long due to shallower penetration. Oil is messy and takes longer but will last longer between touchups. Determine whether to use one-step stain and finish, which is faster but not as long-lasting and more expensive, or separate stain and finish, which lasts longer, provides a richer finish but requires more skill and patience for your window. Also choose gloss, semi-gloss or matte finishes for different looks.
2. Buy enough stain and finish to cover all the windows you are staining. The average coverage will be listed on the can. Make sure to get a quality real bristle brush rated for wood finishes and some mineral spirits for cleanup. Buy a roll or two of painter's tape while you're at it. Enough for every window you are finishing.
3. Get latex gloves and a respirator mask if you have sensitive skin or the fumes irritate you. It's a good idea to use safety glasses too.
Prep the Window Frame
4. Disassemble the sash from the window, for easiest application, and lay out on a firm, level surface. Put plastic underneath if you are working over carpet or flooring of any kind. Wood stain can even stain driveways.
5. Sand the faces of the window sashes, all trim and sills with 150-grit paper or higher to ensure even grain. Using a random orbit sander will give the best results.
6. Wipe the window with a rag dampened in mineral spirits to remove the dust. This will also reveal any glue that may be hiding on the surface. Additional sanding and a light coat of acetone nail polish remover can help break up glue.
Stain the Window Frame
7. Brush a light to medium coat of stain on the face of the window following the manufacturer's instructions for best results. Wipe excess stain off with a dry, lint-free rag. Use additional coats as needed to get desired color. Wait the recommended drying time and lightly sand between coats. For separate stain/finish use one coat of stain and at least two coats of finish. For stain/finish composites follow instructions on the label.
8. Stain inside and outside faces avoiding the edges and bottom of the inside sash and the window track portion of the frame. This allows for proper movement and swelling or shrinkage due to humidity changes.
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9. Allow the window to dry thoroughly before reassembling. Reattach the window stop, and touch up any nail holes with putty and stain.
Tags: stain finish, best results, best results Wipe, coat stain, finish which, mineral spirits
