Questions and Answers for Varathane 1 qt. Golden Mahogany Premium Fast Dry Interior Wood Stain (2-Pack)

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

A:  Thanks for reaching out! We do not recommend thinning Rust-Oleum Varathane Premium Wood Stain as this will affect the stains drying time and performance. -Rust-Oleum Product Support 13

A:  Thanks for reaching out. Varathane Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain color can be impacted by several factors, such as the species of wood, and how long the stain is allowed to penetrate the wood prior to wiping the excess stain. The longer the stain is allowed to remain on the wood prior to wiping, the darker the color will become. We recommend testing the stain on a scrap piece of wood, or a test spot prior to applying to ensure the desired color is achieved. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 6

A:  Thank you for reaching out! Rust-Oleum Varathane Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain is a semi-transparent stain, and the condition of the wood will affect the final appearance. The type and cut of the wood can also affect the color, so a test application is always recommended. If needing further assistance, please give us a call at 800-901-0411 to talk with us. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  Great question, Christine! If staining the treads with Rust-Oleum Varathane Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain, the surface must be topcoated with a floor polyurethane to ensure full longevity and durability. We recommend Rust-Oleum Varathane Water-Based Floor Polyurethane. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Varathane-1-gal-Clear-Satin-Water-Based-Floor-Polyurethane-2-Pack-230231/202057141 - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  Thanks for reaching out. Varathane Sunbleached Premium Wood Stain will not lighten the color of black walnut wood. One option could be Varathane Classic Wood Stain White Wash, however, be sure to test this first in an inconspicuous area to ensure favorable results. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Varathane-1-Qt-White-Wash-Interior-Wood-Stain-2-Pack-349565/308460703 - Rust-Oleum Product Support 6

A:  Thanks for reaching out. While we do not have an exact match to Varathane Carbon Gray Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain, our Rust-Oleum RockSolid Deck In On Day 2X Solid Stain is available in a wide variety of colors, including several shades of gray. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Rust-Oleum-RockSolid-1-gal-Cape-Cod-Gray-Exterior-2X-Solid-Stain-319743/307428204 - Rust-Oleum Product Support 6

A:  Thanks for reaching out, Alex. A second coat of Varathane Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain can be applied 1 hour after the first coat. Apply the first coat of stain liberally with a good quality brush or clean lint free rag. Allow to penetrate for 2–3 minutes, then remove excess by wiping with a rag in the direction of the grain. Removal of all excess material is essential to ensure proper dry time and proper adhesion of topcoat. Fast Dry Stain is dry to touch in approximately 1 hour and can be recoated in 1 hour. Allow 24 hours for full cure. Always apply a test sample on a small, inconspicuous area before proceeding with the entire job. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 6