How to Apply TWP 1500 | TWP Stain Help and Instructions

Prepping New Wood For TWP Stains

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When applying TWP Wood Stains for the first time to new wood there will need to be proper steps taken. New smooth wood or decking is not ready to be pre-stained prior to installation or stained right after installation. It is best to follow the directions of the stain manufacturer when it comes to applying a coating to new wood for the first time, not the lumber yard or the paint store's as they do not understand the proper prep needed.

TWP and New Smooth Decking or Exterior Wood

It is important to understand that new smooth wood is not absorbent enough for the TWP Stains. New wood contains a higher moisture content and a "mill glaze". Mill Glaze is a waxy film that results from the fast turning blades that cuts the profile on a manufactured log.The high speed of the turning blades produces heat that draws sap and moisture out of the log. As it cools and dries, it creates a film or coating on the logs. This will hinder the TWP's ability to penetrate into the wood grain.

Note: New Rough Sawn vertical wood/fencing can be stained right away with no wait and with no prep as it does have mill glaze and is very absorbent. Just make sure the wood is fully dry. If Rough sawn wood has aged or oxidized (grayed) then it will need to be prepped with Gemini Restore Kit. One coat for most instances of newly installed Rough Sawn wood. Continue Reading

TWP Stain Wet on Wet Application

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TWP Stains are to be applied "Wet on Wet" when the wood is absorbent enough to handle more than 1 coat of the stain. This is typically for wood and decking that is older than 12 months and has been exposed to the elements. Applying the TWP "wet on wet" is similar to applying 1.5 coats of stain. The second coat covers twice as much square footage as the first coat.

Applying TWP "wet on wet" is very easy and not complicated once you understand the simple steps. Continue Reading

How To Apply TWP 1500 Stain

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TWP 1500 Stain

First, measure your wood surface to determine the square footage. TWP 1500 Series Wood and Deck Preservative covers approximately 150-300 sq. ft. per gallon. Buy a little more stain than you need just to be sure you do not run out at the end of the project.

Prior to using TWP 1500 Deck Stain, clean the wood using a brush or pressure washer along with a quality wood cleaner. Preparing the wood properly will ensure your new TWP Wood Stain will perform optimally.

Once the wood surface is cleaned it must dry for a minimum of 48 hours before ant stain can be applied. Be sure the temperature is at least 50 degrees and that dry weather is forecasted for the next several days. Continue Reading

The TWP Guide to Staining a Deck

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How To TWP Guide to Staining a Deck

Prolonging the life of a deck is not difficult if you know enough about deck care and regular maintenance. Every year or two most decks need to be cleaned and recoated with deck stain. This will not only enhance the natural beauty of the wood but will create a barrier of protection from Mother Nature. Once a deck has been prepped (See article: The TWP Guide to Prepping a Deck) it is then ready for a coat of TWP stain. This guide will help you along in getting a professional like finish.

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Dry and Curing Time of TWP Wood Deck Stains

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It is good to know the dry and curing time of TWP (Total Wood Preservative) Stain prior to applying. Some people get in too big of rush and want to start putting furniture, plants, grills, etc. back onto a wood surface too soon after staining. It is best to allow TWP to fully dry and cure before allowing foot traffic and items to be placed on the surface.

Drying and curing time for TWP may vary depending on climate and weather conditions. Over application can also affect dry and curing times. TWP should dry evenly flat with no glossy areas. Glossy areas indicate over application of the product and will extend the dry and curing time of TWP. To avoid over applying TWP, allow the stain to soak into the bare wood for 30 minutes then wipe away or back brush any excess stain that has not penetrated the surface. Do not apply TWP if rain is expected within 48 hours. TWP can withstand light rain within an hour or so of being applied but it is best to wait for dry conditions prior to staining. Continue Reading

Properly Applying TWP Stain So It Does Not Dry Shiny

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Tips on Properly Applying TWP Deck Stains So It Does Not Dry Shiny

When applying TWP you should follow a few simple tips to get proper coverage and the look you want. TWP is not meant to give a “shiny” appearance. It is a deep penetrating wood preservative that soaks into the wood pores for optimal protection. TWP is a semi-transparent stain that adds color while allowing the wood grain to show through enhancing its beauty.

If TWP dries shiny then that suggests it was over-applied. In the case of applying deck stain, more is not always better. You only want to apply as much stain as the wood will soak up. Any extra puddles of stain that do not soak in will dry on top and give you an inconsistent shiny appearance. Not only does this look unappealing, it will not perform as expected. Continue Reading

How to Apply TWP to a Fence

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How to Apply TWP to a Fence

Wood fences have been around for many years and can provide beauty, protection, and privacy to any home. Like other wood structures, wood fences need to be treated to keep them from becoming weather damaged. The key is to block out harmful UV rays and moisture. Using an easy to apply TWP formula wood stain can help preserve your fence for many years. Continue Reading

TWP Stain is Spotty or Shiny

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TWP Stain Application is Spotty/Shiny | How to Fix

Staining a deck can be a challenge. There are some common mistakes that can occur that may greatly affect the final results. One such common mistake is over applying the stain.

With TWP Stain it is recommended to apply the stain using a brush, roller, or some type of sprayer. If the wood seems very thirsty, you can apply two “wet on wet” coats. TWP is a penetrating stain so you should never apply more stain than the wood can absorb. Once the stain as had 20-40 minutes or so to penetrate into the wood, you should go back and wipe away or back brush any puddles, drips, or runs.
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Best Results with TWP Stains

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How to Achieve Great Results with TWP Stains

When completing any exterior staining project you can achieve the best results by using a quality product and having the right knowledge. TWP wood stain will give you the best results possible but there are some general tips that can make the final results that much better.

One vital step that a lot of homeowners skip over is wood prep. Preparing the wood for the new stain is extremely important. Skipping this step will not allow the TWP wood stain to perform as it should thus shortening its performance and longevity. Continue Reading

Application Instructions for TWP Stains

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You have made the decision to use TWP wood preservatives to ensure the lasting beauty of your exterior wood surfaces. By using TWP deck stain and following some helpful guidelines you can get professional like results.

Before applying TWP wood stain it is important that the wood is cleaned and prepped correctly so the stain will perform as expected. Clean the wood using a wood cleaner and a stiff brush or pressure washer to agitate the wood and remove any unwanted contaminants. We recommend using a product like the Gemini Restore-A-Deck Kit. This is a two part deck restoration system containing a deck cleaner and brightener that is extremely effective and eco-friendly. Continue Reading