Choosing Armstrong Clark Oil Based Wood Stains will ensure lasting beauty and protection for all your exterior wood surfaces. Backed by five generations of experience in oil-based coatings and cutting edge technology, Armstrong Clark Wood Stains will not only meet your wood protection needs but far exceed them.
Determine the square footage area of the surface you plan to stain. On decks be sure not only to measure the floor but also railings, spindles, steps and all areas that you are planning to stain. Armstrong-Clark Deck and Siding Stains will cover approximately 150-200 sq. ft. per gallon depending on age and wood porosity.
The Armstrong Clark Staining Instructions
Armstrong Clark Deck and Siding Stains come in many different colors and tones. Keep in mind that the actual color results can vary depending on the type, age, condition, and porosity of the wood. Color samples are available if needed.
Prior to using any of the Armstrong Clark Wood Stains it is important to prepare the wood surface properly so the stain will perform as expected. See the RAD Wood Cleaner or Stain Stripper products for properly cleaning the wood surface prior to staining.
Allow the wood surface to dry 1-2 days after it has been cleaned and prepped. Be sure no rain is expected on the day of staining and for 3-4 hours after application so the stain can cure properly.
To apply Armstrong Clark Deck Stain you can use a roller, brush, stain pad, or airless sprayer. Mix the stain thoroughly prior to use. Unlike other stains, Armstrong Deck Stain can be applied in direct sunlight and on hot days. If the first application of stain penetrates within 30 minutes another coat can be applied for added protection.
If applying by sprayer, use a roller or brush to go over the sprayed areas for a more even appearance. After 24 hours use a dry rag to remove any remaining puddles or glossy areas.
Armstrong Clark Wood Stain is environmentally friendly and does not contain an offensive odor. It is easy to apply and very user-friendly. Enhancing the appearance of your deck and giving it lasting protection is the best investment you can make and Armstrong Clark Oil Based Wood Stains makes it easy.
Need Help with Materials Needed? Ask Below with your sq footage.
How to Calculate Square Footage
Deck Sq. Footage
Flooring Length x width =?
Railing Length x height =?
Steps Width x Depth x #of Steps =?
Add up all 3 for the Total Sq. footage.
Fence Sq. Footage
Length x height =?
Multiply x 2 for both sides = Total Sq. Footage
Coverage Rate for AC Stains
The specified coverage rate for Armstrong Clark is 150-250 square feet per gallon for the first coat. Second will apply at 200-300 per gallon. This averages to about 100-125 sq. feet per gallon for 2 coats wet on wet. From this, and from measuring the surface you can calculate how much stain you need. For more aged wood you could easily factor in some extra stain. On newer wood that is still smooth and dense, you probably are not going to use as much.
Note: Hardwood Decking spreads about twice as far. 300-400 sq feet per gallon and only 1 coat.
For maintenance coats you are not going to use near as much stain as you did initially staining bare wood. There are just way too many variables to know the exact coverage rate. There is really no way of knowing exactly how much stain you will need. It is better to buy more than you need than to not have enough. You can always save left over stain for next time. Armstrong Clark has a shelf life of 1 year if opened and 3 years unopened as long as the can is properly resealed.
[quote name=”Rick Tomlinson”]Hello,
Can this stain be applied on cold days as well? What is the coldest temps recommended?
Thanks[/quote]
45+ degrees is about the lowest to go.
Hello,
Can this stain be applied on cold days as well? What is the coldest temps recommended?
Thanks
[quote name=”Daniel”]Another question regarding prep for the wood. The 5 gallon car we purchased states for “new wood to wash the surface with soap and water with mild scrubbing or pressure wash”. If I was to do just this with new cedar wood would I still get good results?[/quote]
See this about new wood:
http://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/new-decking-and-armstrong-clark-stain
Best to use a deck cleaner and a wood brightener for the prep.
[quote name=”Daniel”]I have recently purchased Armstrong Clark Semi-Solid wood stain for a new cedar deck. Thus far I am pleased with its results. Do I need to apply a sealer to the wood surface after the stain has dried? Or does Armstrong Clark Semi-Soild already have a sealer included in its formula?[/quote]
You cannot add a sealer on top and it does seal the wood.
Another question regarding prep for the wood. The 5 gallon car we purchased states for “new wood to wash the surface with soap and water with mild scrubbing or pressure wash”. If I was to do just this with new cedar wood would I still get good results?
I have recently purchased Armstrong Clark Semi-Solid wood stain for a new cedar deck. Thus far I am pleased with its results. Do I need to apply a sealer to the wood surface after the stain has dried? Or does Armstrong Clark Semi-Soild already have a sealer included in its formula?
[quote name=”John Mitchell”]Have used your stains on two redwood decks; highly pleased with results, excellent product–thanks!
Am currently prepping vertical siding and trim around clerestories. Very difficult to reach. Planning to use semi transparent stain, probably multiple coats because the wood is very dry (Southwest exposure). Since my next birthday is the big 80, my wife has stated emphatically this is the last time I will be allowed to monkey boy around on the roof I need something for added longevity. A friend over painted a stained finish with two part marine epoxy and was very pleased with the results. Would you recommend this added treatment over your stain. I need at least ten years–after that it will be up to whoever purchases the house from my heirs!
Many thanks for an excellent product!
John Mitchell[/quote]
Adding a two part epoxy over top of a wood or deck stain is a bad idea. It will blister and peel, creating a mess to fix down the road. There is not a way to make a stain last longer. Glad you love our stains!
Have used your stains on two redwood decks; highly pleased with results, excellent product–thanks!
Am currently prepping vertical siding and trim around clerestories. Very difficult to reach. Planning to use semi transparent stain, probably multiple coats because the wood is very dry (Southwest exposure). Since my next birthday is the big 80, my wife has stated emphatically this is the last time I will be allowed to monkey boy around on the roof I need something for added longevity. A friend over painted a stained finish with two part marine epoxy and was very pleased with the results. Would you recommend this added treatment over your stain. I need at least ten years–after that it will be up to whoever purchases the house from my heirs!
Many thanks for an excellent product!
John Mitchell
[quote name=”peggy gusler”]I have a 1.5 story cabin 28x 18 plus porch and deck which has not been treated for at least 7 years. the south side logs are very gray and rough. I will be refinishing this cabin alone so am wondering how long I can wait to stain after I sand the logs.[/quote]
Best to prep with the Restore a Deck Kit and pressure washing over sanding. Easier and will do a better job. Let dry for a few days and then stain.
I have a 1.5 story cabin 28x 18 plus porch and deck which has not been treated for at least 7 years. the south side logs are very gray and rough. I will be refinishing this cabin alone so am wondering how long I can wait to stain after I sand the logs.
[quote name=”Jim Lewis”]I was considering staining beams and tongue and grove walls in 4 season room.
Can you confirm if there are any risks to this?
Regards,
Jim[/quote]
No issues, but the AC does have an odor as it is oil based. Make sure it has ventilation until the odor dissipates and the stain fully cures. If indoors, it could take a few days.
I was considering staining beams and tongue and grove walls in 4 season room.
Can you confirm if there are any risks to this?
Regards,
Jim
[quote name=”James Ali”]We have a 3 story deck with multiple platforms, landings & of course railings & spindles. There’s simply way to much to strip, (oil based stain) so we’ve decided to try applying a lightly tinted application to the vertical faces (which still look pretty good), then strip as best as possible the flat surfaces, and then apply a deeper stain to those flat surfaces, in hopes that they all match fairly well. Does this sound like a viable option?[/quote]
They will not match and you should not apply the AC over top of a different brand. Best to strip all and start with unstained wood.
We have a 3 story deck with multiple platforms, landings & of course railings & spindles. There’s simply way to much to strip, (oil based stain) so we’ve decided to try applying a lightly tinted application to the vertical faces (which still look pretty good), then strip as best as possible the flat surfaces, and then apply a deeper stain to those flat surfaces, in hopes that they all match fairly well. Does this sound like a viable option?
[quote name=”dianaw”]We are ready to stain our IPE deck and purchased 5 gallons of stain. Seeing as this is a large item, what do you recommend as far as mixing the stain prior to use.[/quote]
You can mix with a 5 gallon paint drill mixer. You can get these for about $5 at a local hardware store.
We are ready to stain our IPE deck and purchased 5 gallons of stain. Seeing as this is a large item, what do you recommend as far as mixing the stain prior to use.
[quote name=”Don Shenberger”]Hello,
You state to wait a year before staining new wood, but most sites say a few weeks. What will happen if I do not wait as I only replaced two or three new boards and the rest of deck is olderthan 5 years.
Thanks,[/quote]
We suggest 3 months for new wood. If you do not wait and you stain the new boards, you will most likely have to apply another coat to them in 9-12 months.
Have leftover Mahogany hardwood. Sprayed Blyogern in can (Argon gas) and sealed.
How will I know if the stain is still good in a year or so?
Any test to perform before using it?
Hello,
You state to wait a year before staining new wood, but most sites say a few weeks. What will happen if I do not wait as I only replaced two or three new boards and the rest of deck is olderthan 5 years.
Thanks,
[quote name=”Gord0″]You say spray using airless sprayer. Can a HVLP sprayer be used? If not why?[/quote]
Yes you can use a HVLP sprayer.
You say spray using airless sprayer. Can a HVLP sprayer be used? If not why?
[quote name=”McKodiak”]Cleaned and brightened new IPE deck on Saturday. Applied Amber stain on Monday. It did rain Tuesday early morning and I did not notice any issues until later when it dried. I did see some clumpy residue in certain areas and in others it looked like the stain faded away. From a previous post, I garner I can just rinse the residue with a hose but can I apply more stain at anytime to fix the faded areas even a free a week or two?[/quote]
Yes you can rinse with water, but the IPE will not take more stain right now. It would be better to apply a light coat later in Fall or next Spring.
Cleaned and brightened new IPE deck on Saturday. Applied Amber stain on Monday. It did rain Tuesday early morning and I did not notice any issues until later when it dried. I did see some clumpy residue in certain areas and in others it looked like the stain faded away. From a previous post, I garner I can just rinse the residue with a hose but can I apply more stain at anytime to fix the faded areas even a free a week or two?
[quote name=”tugger”]1.Old stains/sealers must be removed before applying AC product. Next year, you say clean/brighten/stain. Last year’s product is still there so how can you apply without stripping/power wash since this would be a dry/dry application?
2.Will power washer remove some dark areas in IPE under a grill mat (brightener did not get all of it)
3. Can I add some extra mildewcide liquid? On Cape Cod and get heavy dews and have mildew issues.
4.Might it be best to prophylactically flood/rinse deck 48hrs after staining to float any residual stain so dogs and I don’t track it inside?
5.New stained Maibec double dipped cedar shakes. Will splashed water from #4 above, stain these shakes or what can I do to prevent this (hate taping off)?
6.Will use stain pad (brush for cutting in). How do you know how much is enough stain? Will pad get edges between boards or do I need to dig in there with brush, and if so, do I do this brush work before or after pad staining?
Thanks[/quote]
1. Yes
2. Probably not.
3. No you cannot
4. Sure you can do this.
5. Doubt it would stain the siding.
6. Apply just enough to stain the wood. You do not want to heavy coat this. Probably will need a brush to get in the grooves.
1.Old stains/sealers must be removed before applying AC product. Next year, you say clean/brighten/stain. Last year’s product is still there so how can you apply without stripping/power wash since this would be a dry/dry application?
2.Will power washer remove some dark areas in IPE under a grill mat (brightener did not get all of it)
3. Can I add some extra mildewcide liquid? On Cape Cod and get heavy dews and have mildew issues.
4.Might it be best to prophylactically flood/rinse deck 48hrs after staining to float any residual stain so dogs and I don’t track it inside?
5.New stained Maibec double dipped cedar shakes. Will splashed water from #4 above, stain these shakes or what can I do to prevent this (hate taping off)?
6.Will use stain pad (brush for cutting in). How do you know how much is enough stain? Will pad get edges between boards or do I need to dig in there with brush, and if so, do I do this brush work before or after pad staining?
Thanks
[quote name=”malcolm rpoudfoot”]Hi,
We just stained our IPE deck and I wanted to know how many days I should let it sit before using/putting deck furniture back on the deck? It has already been two-three dry warmer days so far. feels dry to the touch, but just don’t want to chance it if you think it should sit longer,
thanks
Malcolm[/quote]
1-2 days is normal, just make sure it is dry to the touch.
Hi,
We just stained our IPE deck and I wanted to know how many days I should let it sit before using/putting deck furniture back on the deck? It has already been two-three dry warmer days so far. feels dry to the touch, but just don’t want to chance it if you think it should sit longer,
thanks
Malcolm
[quote name=”anthony”]I have a red cedar wood fence to stain ,my question is what is the coverage on a fence per sq ft. And how many coats for this type of wood is recommended.[/quote]
About 200 Sq. feet per gallon. Best to apply 2 coats “wet on wet”. Apply the first coat and apply a second withing 20-90 minutes of the first coat.
I have a red cedar wood fence to stain ,my question is what is the coverage on a fence per sq ft. And how many coats for this type of wood is recommended.
[quote name=”Judd”]I walked on my deck for the first time after allowing it to set for a week which was mostly hot (80s-90s) and humid with a couple light rains. Used Mountain Cedar semisolid after stripping and brightening with RAD kit. Deck feels dry, not tacky at all but definitely have some orange-ish residue on my feet. Is this normal after a week?
Also, I’ve seen many references to back wiping on the comments but I’m not familiar with the term, hoping I didn’t inadvertently do that. Could you explain?[/quote]
You may have over applied slightly. You can rinse off the residue with water. Use your hose and a good nozzle to rinse. A good rain will help as well.
I walked on my deck for the first time after allowing it to set for a week which was mostly hot (80s-90s) and humid with a couple light rains. Used Mountain Cedar semisolid after stripping and brightening with RAD kit. Deck feels dry, not tacky at all but definitely have some orange-ish residue on my feet. Is this normal after a week?
Also, I’ve seen many references to back wiping on the comments but I’m not familiar with the term, hoping I didn’t inadvertently do that. Could you explain?
[quote name=”nestle”]In April, I had all deck boards and railings replaced. #2 pine was used. I plan on staining (semi-trans) in September, after cleaning with deck cleaner and letting dry. Since I’ve had so many deck issues in the past, I want to do this right the first time. Must I apply 2 coats to the floor? Must I re-apply again in one year? The deck is 13×13 with 90 posts – will one gallon be enough? Thanks in advance![/quote]
Just one coat this year and another in 12-18 months. You will need 2 maybe 3 gallons for the 1 coat.
In April, I had all deck boards and railings replaced. #2 pine was used. I plan on staining (semi-trans) in September, after cleaning with deck cleaner and letting dry. Since I’ve had so many deck issues in the past, I want to do this right the first time. Must I apply 2 coats to the floor? Must I re-apply again in one year? The deck is 13×13 with 90 posts – will one gallon be enough? Thanks in advance!
[quote name=”kiloboo”]Prepped Ipe deck using RAD stripper, brightener and power washing. let dry and applied two coats, wet on wet, with a stain pad. 12 hrs later we had light rain. Wiped up a few puddles of stain after 24 hrs. Then the heavy rain came. The next day, I flooded the deck with clean water and washed off excess oil. Deck does not feel oily, but looks very orange and is spotted. There are also some glossy spots when the sun shine on it. What happened and how do I fix it?[/quote]
Leave it alone for a week or so. It should even out.
Prepped Ipe deck using RAD stripper, brightener and power washing. let dry and applied two coats, wet on wet, with a stain pad. 12 hrs later we had light rain. Wiped up a few puddles of stain after 24 hrs. Then the heavy rain came. The next day, I flooded the deck with clean water and washed off excess oil. Deck does not feel oily, but looks very orange and is spotted. There are also some glossy spots when the sun shine on it. What happened and how do I fix it?
[quote name=”gwen”]I am building a cedar deck. I want to stain it with in 4 weeks after I build it. Is there any issues with doing so soon.[/quote]
Please see out instructions on staining new wood:
http://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/new-decking-and-armstrong-clark-stain
I am building a cedar deck. I want to stain it with in 4 weeks after I build it. Is there any issues with doing so soon.
[quote name=”Shorsley”]In the “Armstrong Clark Staining Instructions” post, is says to “use a roller, brush, stain pad,” etc., an that “if applying by sprayer, use a roller or brush to go over the sprayed area.” Yet, several responses to the comments say to not use a roller to apply the stain. Can/should I use a roller to apply Armstrong Clark Stain?[/quote]
Roller can be used, but are not the best way to ensure an even application. A stain pad is much better and easier.
In the “Armstrong Clark Staining Instructions” post, is says to “use a roller, brush, stain pad,” etc., an that “if applying by sprayer, use a roller or brush to go over the sprayed area.” Yet, several responses to the comments say to not use a roller to apply the stain. Can/should I use a roller to apply Armstrong Clark Stain?
[quote name=”JohnB”]We have a deck table that is weathered gray. We have left over stain and wondered if we should use it? We don’t have pressure washer. Will a light sand, prepare the surface enough?[/quote]
If you remove all of the great, then it should be okay.
We have a deck table that is weathered gray. We have left over stain and wondered if we should use it? We don’t have pressure washer. Will a light sand, prepare the surface enough?
[quote name=”Todd”]Just getting ready to stain my deck. Considering between AC Semi-Transparent Rustic Brown or Semi Solid Woodland Brown. My deck is pressure treated and nearing the 2 year mark with no treatment. Wondering if the semi transparent or semi solid is the better choice? Im concerned about the semi solid peeling in time. Also, do you recommend during staining that the AC stains are wiped with a rag while staining to remove excess or wait until stain begins to dry to wipe excess before second coat?
Thank you![/quote]
Do not back wipe the AC stains to remove excess. The semi-solids are penetrating so they do not peel.
Just getting ready to stain my deck. Considering between AC Semi-Transparent Rustic Brown or Semi Solid Woodland Brown. My deck is pressure treated and nearing the 2 year mark with no treatment. Wondering if the semi transparent or semi solid is the better choice? Im concerned about the semi solid peeling in time. Also, do you recommend during staining that the AC stains are wiped with a rag while staining to remove excess or wait until stain begins to dry to wipe excess before second coat?
Thank you!
[quote name=”Lynne Morris”]Hello,
My deck is about 15 yrs old. I kept up with the staining originally then “things” got in the way. Im ready to redo/restore. I pressured washed and it removed quite a bit of the old stain. I plan to use your 2 step prep. and then stain with the Driftwood gray. Do you recommend spraying or rolling. I’ve only brushed and I’m too old to do that s**t again. Also…if I order by tomorrow…how soon will it arrive?[/quote]
You should strip and brighten for the prep to remove all of the old stain. Do not roll the stain. Use a stain pad applicator or stain brush for best results. Shipping time is based on where you live.
Hello,
My deck is about 15 yrs old. I kept up with the staining originally then “things” got in the way. Im ready to redo/restore. I pressured washed and it removed quite a bit of the old stain. I plan to use your 2 step prep. and then stain with the Driftwood gray. Do you recommend spraying or rolling. I’ve only brushed and I’m too old to do that s**t again. Also…if I order by tomorrow…how soon will it arrive?
[quote name=”Collin”]Should I apply with a brush or a roller? If a roller what kind of roller if a brush what kind of brush?[/quote]
Do not roll. Use a stain pad or brush. We like the exterior stain pads best. They are made by Padco or Shurline.
Should I apply with a brush or a roller? If a roller what kind of roller if a brush what kind of brush?
[quote name=”dprifogl”]Hello,
We stained our fence 4 days ago and one of my helpers spilled a little stain on our vinyl siding. We thought it wiped away but apparently not. Any tips on how to remove the stain from the siding now?[/quote]
Try a water based Graffiti Remover and test first to make sure there is not a reaction.
Hello,
We stained our fence 4 days ago and one of my helpers spilled a little stain on our vinyl siding. We thought it wiped away but apparently not. Any tips on how to remove the stain from the siding now?
[quote name=”Mary”]I want to stain my deck, and the temperature is about 55-65 degrees out during the day. It is suppose to get down to around 38-40 at night. Should I stain now or should I wait till the temps at night don”t fall below 45 degrees?[/quote]
Best to not have it drop below 40 degrees at night.