It’s frustrating, isn’t it? You pour your heart and soul into a project, and just weeks later, you see it tarnished, faded, and wearing down. Now, you might be scratching your head, thinking, “Should I have sealed it after staining?” Well, let’s dive into that and get you some answers!
Do You Need to Seal Stained Wood?
Without some kind of sealant, wood becomes dry and lifeless. Finishing is not the same thing as staining. Stains are designed to darken the wood or dye wood by applying pigments, but they do not serve as a layer of protection to the wood.
When the stain is rubbed into the wood, the grain pattern is accentuated, and the wood takes on a more dramatic appearance. Stain darkens the wood and reveals its grain pattern, but it does little to protect it from the elements.
So, it is highly recommended to seal right after staining. Adding a few sealer coats over the wood stain will close its pores, reducing the wood’s ability to absorb moisture, protecting it from some ultraviolet light, and extending its lifespan.
Also, you can apply paint over the wood sealer to further enhance its color, based on your preference. Sealing and resealing wood or furniture every few years can greatly extend its useful life.
How Long Should You Wait to Seal the Wood After Staining?
The wood stain must be allowed to dry following the manufacturer’s instructions before applying a clear coat, as otherwise, the stain may be wiped off or pulled up when the clear coat is applied.
If you apply the clear coat by brushing or wiping it on, you’ll likely leave streaks in the wood stain, so we recommend spraying it on instead of using a brush. You’re more likely to notice streaks or marks in the stained piece if you don’t let it dry for a specified time
Use this chart as a guide for knowing how much time you have to let the stain dry.
Stain Type | Minwax Wood Finish Penetrating Stain | Varathane Classic Penetrating Wood Stain | Minwax Gel Stain | Varathane Gel Stain |
Recoat Time | 4-6 Hours | 2 Hours | 8-10 Hours | 2 Hours |
Dry Times | 8 Hours | 8 Hours (oil-based stain) 24 Hours (water-based stain) | 24 Hours | 6-8+ Hours (up to 24 hours) |
What Happens if the Stained Wood Isn’t Sealed? What are Other Alternatives?
What matters most is the context of its intended use. Even if it is safely hung on a wall indoors, it will eventually crack, warp, and fade. This is due to exposure to ultraviolet light and humidity, no matter how well-protected it is. Besides that, though, the effect won’t be very noticeable.
However, the rate of wear and tear will increase if the product is put to use in a location where it will be subjected to moisture, sharp objects, heavy foot traffic, or spills.
In little time, the workpiece will appear old due to scratches, rot, wear, staining, and denting. While the “distressed” aesthetic may appeal to you, remember that it will require more frequent replacement.
Oil-based polyurethane, water-based polyurethane, and varnish (sometimes known as alkyd) are the three most used sealants for wood.
You can also apply waxing and hard-drying oils to seal stained wood, but they have a steep learning curve, require a lot of work, and require more care and attention than polyurethanes and alkyds [1].
Number of Clear Coats to Apply on Stained Wood
After staining wood, you have to seal it with at least three coats of wood sealer. With clear coatings, three layers are the minimum that manufacturers recommend if you want maximum protection against surface damage.
When applying on with wood, we recommend using 3 or 5 coats maximum. Adding a clear protective coat finish in thin layers saves time and makes it easier to correct imperfections between coats if they occur.
A thicker final clear coat is sometimes applied to guarantee the desired durability. Using high-grit paper (between 220 and 600 grit), you can sand between coatings.
Sand only between applications of clear finish and do not sand the stained wood. If you sand the stained area directly, the stain will come off, but you’ll also leave behind some major surface damage that you or others will be able to notice right away.
Identifying the Best Type of Clear Coat to Put on a Newly-Stained Wood
Project Type
The clear topcoat you use on your items in high-traffic areas, such as dining room tables, must be very sturdy. Those standards are unnecessary for less-visited, smaller projects.
Color of Wood and Stain
Some clear coats are completely transparent, whereas others have a golden or amber hue that complements particular wood stain colors. Use caution and make a decision based on personal tastes.
Ease of Application
For a clear topcoat, you can use a paintbrush or a lint-free cloth to apply the coating. A spray can or paint sprayer can be used to paint the other types. When deciding, which course of action will be less challenging for you?
Indoor vs. Outdoor Use
How long do you plan on keeping your stained surface inside versus outside? If your clear coat is going to be used outside, it must be watertight and UV-resistant.
Different Types of Wood Sealing Products
Polyurethane (Oil and Water Based)
This is a widely used wood finishing material since it is long-lasting and inexpensive compared to other alternatives. Do not confuse a topcoat sealer like polyurethane with a sanding sealer.
Topcoats made from this material aren’t recommended for use while painting furniture because of the yellowing that often occurs as they cure. While it is only a problem for paints with a light color, staining is still a fantastic alternative.
For touch-drying or a second coat, re-apply polyurethane in as little as one to two hours. The whole dry time should be at least 24 hours. Let the sealer coat properly dry, and read the product’s description and instructions before using it.
Thinners are unnecessary for water-based polyurethane. But you can thin oil-based polyurethane or alkyd with mineral spirits at a 50/50 ratio.
Polycrylic
When it comes to woodworking, many pros swear by Minwax Polycrylic. Why? Unlike some other clear finishes, this one stays beautifully clear even when you layer it over paint. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
If you’re concerned about applying a clear coat of Polycrylic sealer over the stain, you shouldn’t be. Polycrylic is known for its transparency, and this sealer has gained a lot of traction among customers who need to remove light or colored stains.
The most common color choice is a grey stain because it is light, and consumers don’t want it to be yellow with time. To maintain the gray color of the stain, you can opt for Polycrylic.
Lacquer
It just takes 30 minutes or less for the lacquer to dry, so with a little sanding between thin coats, you’ll be set to go. But lacquer has a negative side as it is highly poisonous and has a very noticeable smell.
Suppose you don’t have the right equipment for spraying lacquer. Use is as simple as spraying it uniformly. Keep it within the house, as it’s not safe for use in the great outdoors.
After application, yellowing or ambering is possible, though it probably won’t be evident on dyed wood.
How to Seal Stained Wood + Best Tips and Tricks
Sealers are typically applied over the stain, or the wood itself, if it has not been stained. It closes the wood’s pores, giving it a smooth finish. Here are some pointers on how to seal wood stain. If you follow these tips, you’ll have far better results.
- You can get the desired effect by prepping the wood's surface. If you like a smoother finish, surface preparation is key, although sanding the wood before staining is optional.
- Ensure that the wood possesses a moisture level of 12% or less. The finish will seem blotchy if the wood is excessively damp. A few water droplets on the wood's surface will reveal how much moisture is present.
- Staining requires a dry surface. If the wood takes in the water, it is ready. If the water beads up and stays put after a few minutes, it is not dry enough.
- Remember to let the stain dry before the first coat.
- Remember to use a brand new brush every time you seal wood workpieces.
- Use a lint-free cloth or let the area air dry after cleaning with a mild soapy water solution. When staining wood, make sure it's completely dry first.
- It's important to fully mix the dye before applying it. After waiting an hour between coats, apply two thin layers of stain with a brush or roller. Put off applying a sealant for at least two days, preferably three.
- It's important to remember that porous timbers may need multiple coats of sealer.
- As you apply the stain, wipe away any messes as they occur. Have a brush on hand for this. You won't like how the stain looks if you don't.
- Try to avoid overlapping. Don't apply a damp stain on the dry stain; doing so will result in darker, more uniform bands. Don't let the area in between the moist edges dry off.
- If you want good results, you should only use well-respected brands.
- If this is your first time, start by sealing stained wood that are scraps.
Alternative Option: Wood Stain and Sealer in One
Using an all-in-one stain and sealer on a piece of wood is recommended if you do not wish to apply multiple products and multiple layers of stains and sealers. It’s a good option for beginners because a two-in-one product combines the two formulas.
FAQ
What is the difference between staining and sealing?
A sealer will stop water from seeping in and encouraging decay. Whereas a stain will prevent the wood from drying out and cracking or checking and turning gray, a stain will also block UV light with an extra pigment. But can you apply stain over painted wood? Find out here!
Is it recommended to put polyurethane on stained wood that’s not fully dried?
We do not recommend putting water or oil-based polyurethane on stained wood that has not dried because the sealer’s adherence will be reduced, increasing the likelihood of peeling or flaking. The sealer coat may not also cure correctly if applied over a wet stain, making you start the application process again.
How do you seal stained wood for outdoor use?
You can seal stained wood for outdoor use with a linseed or tung oil coat. Use a protective finish like polyurethane, varnish, or lacquer to preserve wood stains. You can also use a stain and sealer combination to finish and protect the wood.
Conclusion
So, you’ve stained your wood and you’re wondering, “Should I seal it?” While the choice is ultimately yours, sealing is a smart move. Why? Because it shields your wood from spills, fingerprints, and those accidental scratches or dings. Remember, the main gig of wood stain is to give that lovely color to the wood.
Without a sealer, that rich color can fade over time. When you add that protective layer, not only do you guard the stain, but you also make the wood’s grain and hue pop! So, for a lasting and vibrant finish, consider sealing the deal.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
