Questions and Answers for Varathane 1 qt. Carbon Gray Premium Fast Dry Interior Wood Stain

A:  We're happy to help. If you are applying Rust-Oleum Varathane Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain to an exterior wood surface, you will need to protect it using the Rust-Oleum Varathane Spar Urethane. https://www.homedepot.com/b/Varathane/N-5yc1vZ641/Ntk-elasticplus/Ntt-varathane%2Bspar%2Burethane?NCNI-5&sortby=bestmatch&sortorder=none -Rust-Oleum Product Support 14

A:  It would be best if it's stirred, Bob.If you do shake the Rust-Oleum Varathane Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain, you do run the risk of bubbles in the film, so you'll need to allow the product to settle before use. It's easier to stir it to ensure quick use. We hope this helps! - Rust-Oleum Product Support 1

A:  Thank you for reaching out, James. Varathane Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain has some odor when applying, so we recommend applying in a well ventilated area. For lower odor products we recommend using Rust-Oleum Varathane Classic Water-Based Wood Stain as it has a more subtle odor. Please also note that sensitivity to smell is different for each person, and we ask that you take all necessary action to prioritize your safety. -Rust-Oleum Product Support 14

A:  Thank you for reaching out, Jacque. Colonial Maple is currently only available in Rust-Oleum Varathane Premium Oil-Based Wood Stain. -Rust-Oleum Product Support 14

A:  Great question, Sherry. Before applying Rust-Oleum Varathane Premium Wood Stain we recommend removing any existing finishes with sandpaper or stripper. -Rust-Oleum Product Support 14

A:  We're happy to help, Richetta. Varathane Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain can only be applied over bare wood or, if the previously stained wood does not have a sealer, this stain can be applied. We recommend first testing in an inconspicuous area to ensure mixing of the two stains will produce the desired color. -Rust-Oleum Product Support 14

A:  We're happy to help, Betty. If using Rust-Oleum Varathane Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain on flooring or stair treads, the stain must be topcoated with a floor-grade polyurethane. We recommend Rust-Oleum Varathane Water-Based Floor Polyurethane for a crystal clear finish. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Varathane-1-Gal-Clear-Matte-Water-Based-Interior-Polyurethane-2-Pack-286820/205926960 -Rust-Oleum Product Support 14

A:  Thank you for reaching out, Kena. If using Rust-Oleum Varathane Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain on flooring or stair treads, the stain must be topcoated with a floor-grade polyurethane. We recommend Rust-Oleum Varathane Water-Based Floor Polyurethane for a crystal clear finish. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Varathane-1-Gal-Clear-Matte-Water-Based-Interior-Polyurethane-2-Pack-286820/205926960 -Rust-Oleum Product Support 14

A:  Happy to clear things up, Jim! Rust-Oleum Varathane Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain is suitable for use on bare wood surfaces, or on bare wood treated with a pre-stain conditioner. If the shellac is a wood finish, then the stain cannot be used, as the shellac will prevent the stain from properly penetrate. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  Thank you for reaching out, Rob! The final appearance of Rust-Oleum Varathane Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain will be dependent on the condition and type of wood. If tacky stain is still on the surface, then it is likely that not all the excess stain was removed, and a clean rag and some mineral spirits should be used to help remove it. This is a penetrating stain, so the final color and appearance will be dependent on how porous the wood is as well. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3