Can gel stain be used on stairs?

Can gel stain be used on stairs?

Just dip the rag in the gel stain and wipe onto the stair treads. You don’t even really have to worry about swirl marks, applications marks, etc, as you are applying it. Just get it all covered. Then come back with a clean lint free rag and wipe away the excess in nice even strokes in the direction of the grain.

What type of stain is best for stairs?

Polyurethane (Surface Type Finish) Polyurethane is the best surface finish for stairs. Surface finishes do have some drawbacks. The main one is that they can cover up the natural charm of wooden stairs.

What surfaces can you use gel stain on?

Gel stain works on most surfaces from wooden to metal, and even painted surfaces can be gel stained. Unlike traditional oil-and-water-based stains, gel stain is very easy to apply by wiping it on with a brush versus having to rub it in like most stains.

Is gel stain better than regular stain?

Why DIYers Choose Gel Stain The primary difference between gel and a traditional stain is that gel stain sits on top of the wood while a traditional stain sinks in; as a result, it lets some of the wood’s unique markings and texture shine through while delivering a crisp, consistent finish not dissimilar to paint.

Do you need to seal Minwax gel stain?

Does Minwax® Gel Stain need to be topcoated? For added beauty and protection, we recommend topcoating all interior projects with a clear protective finish such as Minwax® Fast-Drying Polyurethane or Minwax® Water Based Oil-Modified Polyurethane. For exterior applications, use Minwax® Helmsman® Spar Urethane.

What is a gel stain?

Gel stains are thick stain that you apply to a wood surface. Unlike traditional stains that soak into the wood creating a new color, gel stains are applied to the surface of wood and can be built up similar to a paint. Unlike paint, gel stains still allow you to feel the underlying texture of the wood.

How do you seal stained wood stairs?

Brush on a coat of floor-grade polyurethane varnish.

1. Stairs are high-traffic areas, so sealing them is essential.
2. Remember to use a compatible varnish—oil-based with an oil-based stain, or water-based with a water-based stain.
3. Allow the varnish to dry for the recommended time, such as 4 hours.

Do you need to sand before gel stain?

It doesn’t require you to sand the wood all the way down to its raw state for best adhesion the way you would with a typical stain. In fact, just a little light sanding will do the trick, and then you’re ready to begin the application process with a lint-free cloth.