How to Stain Massaranduba Wood with Armstrong Clark Hardwood Stain
Massaranduba wood is a Brazilian exotic hardwood also referred to as Bulletwood for its incredibly strong dense nature. It is a fairly straight-grained redwood with a medium to dark reddish brown appearance that tends to darken with age. Massaranduba wood has many uses in heavy construction, flooring, boat building, and decking.
Even though massaranduba wood is fairly resistant to rot and insect attacks, it lasts longer in exterior uses when it is finished. The best way to protect and enhance a massaranduba wood surface is to stain it with a penetrating stain.
Prior to staining massaranduba wood, it should be cleaned to remove any dirt, grime, or graying. Coat the surface with a quality wood cleaner. Use a pressure washer or stiff brush to clean the wood thoroughly. Work in small sections cleaning the wood to a lighter color. Do not use too much water pressure or you risk furring up the wood. Rinse well after cleaning. If existing stain is present, use a wood stain stripper instead of a wood cleaner.
While the massaranduba wood is still wet from cleaning, apply a mixture of wood brightener. This ensures the wood pores are open to accept the new stain and will brighten the natural color of the wood. Rinse well with fresh water and allow the wood surface to dry for 1-2 days.
How to stain massaranduba wood depends on the application tools and stain being used. We recommend using Armstrong Clark in the mahogany or amber color. Use what equipment best suits you. You can apply Armstrong stain to massaranduba wood using a roller, stain pad, brush, or sprayer.
You can apply Armstrong wood stain in direct sunlight and on hot days. If the initial stain coat absorbs within 30 minutes, a second coat may be applied. If using a pump or airless sprayer, back brush or roll the sprayed areas for a more even finish. After 24 hours, wipe any remaining puddles or glossy areas with a dry rag.
There are several tips to remember when staining massaranduba wood. Always stir the stain thoroughly before beginning and periodically thereafter. Be sure the air temperatures are feasible for staining. Never apply stain over an existing stain, paint, or varnish. For decks, fences, or siding, stain the entire length of a board before moving to the next board to eliminate lap marks.
Learning how to stain massaranduba wood is a great way to preserve its beauty. A protective finish will not only enhance this beautiful exotic wood but will provide maximum protection from harsh weather.
My Massarunduba deck has been stained for 4 years with Messmer. With more rain in my area (NJ), the oil element coming to the surface after application, has been a greater issue. Also, the stain isn’t lasting more than 6 months and the deck is cupping. Can I try something else that will protect it better? I see now this wood was not a good choice, but need to get at least another 5 years out of it.
Strip and brighten for prep:
https://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper
Stain with one of these AC hardwood colors. Just one coat:
https://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/hardwood-and-ipe-stain
just saw a comment and want to be certain I’m not about to make a mistake! Massaranduba deck has been oiled with Messmer’s for a number of years. Last application was about a year ago. If I clean and brighten the deck thoroughly, will I be ok to move to your mahogany stain?
No, you need to strip and brighten. No harder, just a deeper cleaning to remove the Messmers fully.
I prepared the deck last summer but the rains started for several months without enough drying time in between to stain. Now that the temperature is right and have dry times between rains, do I need to pressure wash again before using the cleaner and brightener?. There are no stains from leaves or dirt over the winter.
Yes, you will have to prep again.
I’ve never had lap mark issues with any of your stains… So why the warning about doing entire length of board?
To ensure it applies evenly without any risk of lap marks.
I get that.. But your stain doesn’t create lap marks as long as it’s been recently stirred. I’m a deck professional and use your stain exclusively for 2 reasons, neither which have ever failed me: 1) can be applied in direct sunlight, and 2) because it doesn’t leave lap marks no mater what. Hence my confusion.
Not everyone is a pro when applying so yes it is possible to get lap marks, hence the directions.
Your instructions for massaranduba wood says “Never apply stain over an existing stain”. Why? I have re-stained my deck for years using Messmer’s stain with good results. Is there a reason I shouldn’t just clean the deck and apply the Armstrong Clark stain over the Messmer’s?
The CA cannot be applied over a stain of a different brand. Adhesions issues and need to soak in correctly.
Can your stains be used for indoor applications?
It is not designed for indoor application.