SuSTAIN Exterior Wood Finish

• Free Literature
• Contractor Referral
• Stay Connected

Coverage Rates

Coverage will vary depending on type and texture of wood.

•  150-250 sq. ft. / gallon on new wood.
• 250-300 sq. ft. /gallon on previously coated surfaces.

Color Check

Each wood species and even wood of the same species accepts stain differently. Apply the stain to a sample area on the project. If possible, apply the test stain in the same manner that it will be applied on the entire project. For full color development, allow to dry over night.  Some milled and all rough sawn lumber have more porous surfaces than planed lumber and will absorb more stain during the first coat and some second coat applications. This may have an effect on the resulting finish color if pigment is added; therefore, it is imperative that a color brush out

**Note: Never apply stains without first doing brush out samples.

Surface Condition

It is recommended that the moisture content is verified with a penetrating lignometer. With a moisture content of 18% or less, there is less chance of mold or microbial growth in the wood and better penetration into the wood pores.

Surface Preparation

All traces of dirt, mildew, loose wood fibers or flaking stain must be removed. Pressure wash the surface to be stained using a wood cleaning product if necessary. Thoroughly rinse the cleaned surface with water to remove all traces of cleaning solution. Lightly sand or buff with an Osborn “cup” brush areas where the previous finish still looks intact to blend the area to be stained. Some color “touch up” may be required if there are areas that are so badly weathered that the previous color is gone. This can usually be accomplished with a localized application of one of the pre-tinted stains or by having the clear tinted.

Maintenance and Recoating
Inspect your logs or other wood surfaces at least once a year. Consider recoating every 3-5 years. Check for damage to areas where there has been severe exposure due to weather and sun degradation. These areas may need a maintenance coat of SuStain more frequently.

Temperature

Prior to application of SuStain, check the temperature of the wood surface and the projected ambient temperatures. SuStain should not be applied to wet or frozen wood, in subfreezing temperatures or when subfreezing temperatures are expected within 24 hours of application. We do not recommend application in continuing wet weather. SuStain applied during colder, humid weather will take longer to dry. If rain is imminent, do not apply product. After heavy rain, wood surfaces should be given several days to dry before application. If weather is hot and sunny, it is best to work around the house so you are always in the shade. Do not apply SuStain to hot surfaces. Best when applied between 40-90 degrees.

**Note: Weatherall Company, Inc. provides an excellent EPA registered mildewcide that may be added directly to the pail (Stay-Clean I/ETM), and it is recommended for use in areas of high humidity where the wood is more susceptible to mildew.

Type of Application

SuStain can be easily applied by natural bristle brush, airless sprayer or pump style sprayer. If spray application is used, back brushing is mandatory. When using a pump or airless sprayer, work small areas thoroughly back brushing the work to insure proper penetration. Look frequently for runs, especially from checks and split grain and back brush as required. Although a one-coat application is normally sufficient, a second coat may be necessary depending on the condition of the previous finish and the porosity of the wood. Keep in mind that additional coats may affect the final color. Apply second coat within 12 hours of the first coat for best results. Over application of this product may result in a glossy appearance, extended drying times or sagging. Do not thin.

Dispersion

Thoroughly stir the contents of the pail to disperse any added pigments evenly. If pigments are added, a very slight color difference may occur from pail to pail as well as when the finish is not thoroughly stirred. To avoid any variations, a good technique is to blend all pails of the same color then stir thoroughly prior to use. Continue to stir periodically during application.

Drying Time

Drying times will vary depending on the temperature and relative humidity. SuStain may still be tacky after 12 hours. Allow for 1-2 days for full curing.

Clean Up

Clean up immediately with mineral spirits. Spray equipment should be cleaned immediately per the equipment manufacturer’s recommendations. Dispose of excess materials by following all local, state and federal environmental disposal regulations.

Storage

Store product in a tightly sealed container in moderate temperatures (between 40° F. and 90° F.).