Questions and Answers for Varathane 8 oz. Wood Conditioner

A:  Gel stains don't soak in so you don't need to use a product like this to prevent them from soaking in.

A:  It is going to be fine. I have done it myself. Let the project get dry before staining it.

A:  Yes. The type of stain you want to use doesn't matter. This works equally well for water and oil stains. A gel stain is simply easier to spread. You can stain and condition when wood is vertical, you just have to pay closer attention than if it was horizontal so you don't get drips.

A:  Happy to help, Hosta! Yes, Rust-Oleum Varathane Wood Conditioner can be used with more traditional wood stains, as well as with gel stains, to help promote an even color. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  Not a need, Simon! The only reason you would sand the Rust-Oleum Varathane Wood Conditioner is if the product set for 7 days before staining. If it did, we would recommend a light sanding and a reapplication of the product prior to staining. We hope this helps! - Rust-Oleum Product Support 1

A:  Great question! Yes, Rust-Oleum Varathane Wood Conditioner can be used with our gel stains. However, the surface does need to be sanded prior to staining to ensure proper penetration. The wood conditioner will not open up the pores of the wood more. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  I see no reason why it shouldn't. I just checked the can I still have in our garage and it doesn't specify either way. Some kind of stain or sealer is going to go over this, so I think it should work just fine. I wouldn't hesitate to use it on an external project.

A:  it say on can use on interior wood

A:  I have never used it for an exterior application but gut feel says that it should be ok. Your final finish will dictate the durability of the finish. The can says nothing about exterior or interior use... To be safe, I would call Rustoleum at 1-800-901-0411

A:  Happy to help! Rust-Oleum Varathane Wood Conditioner is intended for use on interior surfaces only. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  No, it is not recommended to be used for the exterior.

A:  Thank you for reaching out, Ruth! Typically, Rust-Oleum Varathane Wood Conditioner does not need to be used with the Varathane Premium Fast Dry Wood Stains. To ensure the best color, you will want to stir the stain and sand the surface as directed. The wood conditioner can also be used if desired. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  We want to try to help and look into this further for you, Gen! Please give us a call at 800-901-0411 to talk with us. When calling, please have your can of Rust-Oleum Varathane Wood Conditioner nearby! - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  Thank you for reaching out! We recommend using Rust-Oleum Varathane Oil-Based Wood Conditioner with oil-based stain to ensure proper results and drying with the stain. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  We appreciate your interest! Rust-Oleum Varathane Wood Conditioner is intended for use on interior wood surfaces only. This conditioner is intended for use on soft woods to help provide a consistent color with wood stains. If wanting to use an exterior stain or sealer, we recommend reaching out to the stain manufacture for the prep recommendations! - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  I find it best to use a foam brush but you still should make sure to wipe down any excess with a rag.

A:  I just use a foam brush for quick clean up.

A:  Any brush will do. The goal is to flood the surface with fluid, let it get absorbed and then wipe the excess off with a cloth. Carefully follow any time sensitive instructions on the can.

A:  I usually use a cheap brush or a foam one.

A:  Thank you for reaching out! Our Varathane Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner applies best with a natural bristle brush, however, any brush may be used. The conditioner should be applied across the wood grain, then the excess conditioner must be wiped away using a rag, following the direction of the grain. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 2

A:  Yes I would definitely sand it helps when applying

A:  Absolutely

A:  Yes, the surface does need to be sanded prior to applying Rust-Oleum Varathane Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner. Start with #120 grit sandpaper and progress through #150, #180 and #220 grits. Please keep in mind, this is not a food-grade product and we do not recommend it for use on surfaces that will have direct contact with food or beverage. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

A:  Yes you should sand as you normally would