TimberSoy Wood Stain Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can TimberSoy be applied over an old stain or paint? A: No. TimberSoy is a penetrating, semi-transparent stain that needs to bond directly to raw wood fibers. If there is an existing film-like barrier, paint, or old sealer, it will prevent the stain from absorbing. The surface must be stripped, sanded back to bare wood, and cleared of dust and oils before application.
Q: How should I prepare the wood before staining? A: Sand the wood uniformly in the direction of the grain. For most interior furniture or floors, finishing with 120 to 150-grit sandpaper is ideal. Avoid over-sanding with ultra-fine grits (220+), as this can "burnish" or close the wood pores. Clean the surface thoroughly to ensure it is free of dust, grease, and mill glaze.
Q: What is the best way to apply TimberSoy to avoid lap marks? A: TimberSoy offers excellent, lap-free flow. It can be applied using a high-quality nylon/polyester brush, microfiber applicator pads, or an airless sprayer. The key is to work wet-edge to wet-edge along the entire length of the boards. If spraying, back-wiping or back-brushing is recommended to ensure even penetration.
Q: How do I prevent blotching or uneven staining on woods like pine, maple, oak, or birch? A: To ensure a uniform finish, it is essential to control the wood’s porosity before applying the stain. We recommend applying a high-quality, water-borne pre-stain wood conditioner or a thin washcoat, which seals the softer, highly absorbent pockets of the wood. Many contractors will dilute our Acri-Soy Penetrating Sealer with 50% water and apply to wood surfaces susceptible to blotching. Additionally, ensure your final sanding is done with 120 to 150-grit sandpaper; avoid over-sanding with higher grits (220+), as this can "burnish" the wood and prevent the stain from penetrating evenly.
Q: How many coats do I need, and what is the dry time? A: Typically, 1 to 2 coats are sufficient depending on the desired color depth and the porosity of the wood. This is not a topcoat film stain and amount of stain is dependent on how much stain the wood will absorb. Be sure to use proper installation methods and tools to prevent topical residue. TimberSoy is engineered for a rapid dry time of 30 minutes to 1 hour under normal conditions 77F @ 50% relative humidity.
Q: Will this stain shield wood from UV fading on outdoor decks or fences? A: Yes. The factory-tinted versions utilize premium colorfast pigment dispersions that offer excellent UV resistance. For maximum longevity on high-exposure exterior applications, selecting the Infrared Reflective pigment type.
Q: Does TimberSoy require a clear sealer? A: While TimberSoy provides excellent integral protection, a topcoat is highly recommended for high-wear areas or where you desire moisture repellency. For interior floors and cabinets, apply a durable bio-based polyurethane non-toxic clear topcoat (such as Eco-Tuff) to protect against heavy foot traffic and household chemicals. For a natural matte penetrating non film forming sealant, choose Acri-Soy Penetrating Sealer. For vertical exterior surfaces, a topcoat is optional.
Q: Is it safe to use indoors around kids and pets? A: Absolutely. TimberSoy is a zero-VOC, (VOC Emissions Certified for office/classroom), virtually odorless, and non-toxic formula. It eliminates harmful off-gassing and combustion risks, making it perfectly safe for interior residential projects, nurseries, and commercial spaces.
