How to Stain Floor Molding
Baseboard molding that is placed along a hardwood floor can be stained to provide a consistent transition between the floor and wall. You should stain the molding before installing it on the wall. The results of the staining are usually dependent upon the grade of the molding you purchase. Generally, molding is sold as paint grade or stain grade, with the stain grade being slightly more expensive. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Sandpaper
- Pre-stain conditioner
- Towel or paint brush
- Paper towel
- Polish, shellac or varnish
Instructions
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Sand any rough spots that you notice while running your hand over the molding. Use medium grit sandpaper such as 120 to 320 grit.
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2
Condition the molding with pre-stain conditioner to minimize the risk of the finished product looking splotchy or streaky. Because the exact directions for applying this product vary from one manufacturer to another, it is important that you follow the directions on the container. Ensure the conditioner is completely dry before continuing. This usually takes approximately 15 minutes.
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Brush or wipe the stain on the molding on the side that will face out. Generally, a towel is the most appropriate option if you are using a basic quarter round molding since there aren't any decorative or irregular areas. A paintbrush is a better option if you are working with decorative molding that has a lot of design elements. Some stains can be applied using a pump sprayer.
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4
Wipe any excess stain using a paper towel. Take care that you don't press too hard as this may make the stain look uneven.
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Apply a second coat of stain if the first coat looks uneven. While there may be some inconsistencies in the stain, the second coat will usually even out the look.
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Protect the stain with wood polish, shellac or varnish. Once again, the directions will vary according to the product, so follow the directions on the container.
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Tips & Warnings
Place newspaper or a drop cloth on the ground before you stain the molding to protect the surface from the stain in case some is accidentally spilled or drops onto the floor.
