Spaces that utilize wood furniture or wood for walls and flooring may wonder if they can paint over stained wood. The short answer is yes, but there are some challenges that you may encounter when painting over previously stained materials. In this blog, we will talk about how to prep a wood surface for paint, different wood types, and how you can achieve a professional result when painting over stained wood.
Surface Prep Is Key
All painting projects need to start with surface preparation if you want the result to look professional. Prepping a wood surface will help the paint stick properly and last longer because it will penetrate the wood on a deeper level.
Before painting wood or painting over stained wood, you should clean the surface, sand down the wood, and add a primer. Removing build-up will help you apply the paint directly to the wood and prevent flaking. Sanding will add some additional texture for the primer and paint to adhere to.
Apply A Primer Before You Paint Over Stained Wood
Before you paint over stained wood, you should apply a primer. Choosing the right primer and applying it correctly will ensure your paint goes on smoothly and doesn’t bubble. You can use a thin layer of primer on a stained wood surface to ensure a durable finish. Using a bonding primer will help paint adhere better to previously stained wood surfaces and last for much longer.
Depending on the type of wood you are painting, you may need multiple coats of primer. Following the instructions on the primer can or manufacturer’s website will ensure that you get a perfect coat without bubbling. You will need to make less frequent touch-ups when you use a primer before applying paint over stained wood.
Understand What Wood Types Can Be Painted
Some wood types are more porous than others, which means that many wood types can be painted or stained multiple times. Softwoods and hardwoods can both be painted after they are stained, but softwoods typically can be painted multiple times compared to hardwoods.
Understanding what type of stain was applied to the wood type will help you achieve a better end result. Stains with wax coatings and oil-based stains will react differently to paint overlay. A wax stain will gum up when you rub it slightly with sandpaper. Oil-based stains will cause water to bead up when it comes in contact with the wood.
Sanding Or Deglossing Can Help
Depending on what stain has been used on the wood surface, you may benefit from sanding or deglossing. For a penetrating stain, scuff the surface with some sandpaper. Use a fine-grain option so that you don’t wear down the wood completely.
For stains with a film, scraping off any pieces of loose finish is the best way to ensure your paint goes on smoothly. Then use a fine-grit sandpaper to even out the surface.
Choosing The Right Paint
Choosing a durable paint that adheres well will help you paint over stained wood. High-quality latex paints are the most suitable option for most projects. Painters and homeowners should consider how different finishes will look when painted on wood. Matte, gloss, or satin finishes may change the way wood appears in a home or change how a paint color looks.
Working With A Professional Painter At American Town Painting
American Town Painting works with homes and businesses in Salt Lake City, UT. We are the top painters in the community who offer quality services with attention to customer satisfaction. Our clients love their final results because we use the best quality paints and provide a smooth finish.
Painting homes and businesses is our passion, which sets us apart from other professional painting companies. American Town Painting offers cabinet refinishing, epoxy coatings, wallpaper application, interior painting, and exterior painting. No matter the scale of your project, our painters will help make it look visually appealing and durable. Reach out to our team to get started on your project!