Frequently Asked Questions

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Wood has a natural beauty, but to help preserve its look in outdoor settings, applying a wood sealant is highly recommended. Because wood is naturally porous, it readily absorbs moisture, which can lead to long-term damage.

Exposure to rain or high humidity may cause wood to swell, warp, peel, or even decay over time. Sealing wood surfaces can help extend the life of your fence, deck, or outdoor furniture, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements due to wet weather.

When wood isn’t properly sealed, it becomes more vulnerable to damage caused by moisture, dirt, and prolonged sun exposure. This can lead to problems like discoloration, warping, cracking, and in some cases, even decay or pest activity.

Moisture Exposure: Without a protective sealant, wood can absorb moisture from rain or humidity. Over time, this can cause the material to expand, contract, and eventually develop cracks or become misshapen—especially when it’s repeatedly exposed to natural elements.

Sun Damage: Direct exposure to UV rays can cause unsealed wood to lose its grain and break down structurally. Over time, this can lead to fading and or turning gray, and an increased risk of cracking or splintering.

Insects & Fungi: Wood left unsealed may also attract insects or develop fungal growth. Without a protective barrier, moisture and warmth can create the ideal environment for pests and mold to take hold, compromising the wood’s integrity.

The type of wood, as well as its condition, plays a big role in determining how it is going to look after you stain it. Different woods absorb stain and sealant differently, and in some cases, a customized approach is needed for the best results.

For example, pressure-treated pine often has a smooth, dense surface that doesn’t absorb stain as readily as other types of wood like cedar. This can make the final color appear more muted than expected. In these cases, proper surface preparation—or even allowing the wood to weather slightly before staining—can help improve absorption and appearance.

• Pressure-Treated Pine: Affordable and widely used for outdoor structures. However, it will require an extra coat to accept stain evenly due to its smoother surface.

• Cedar: Naturally resistant to insects and rot, cedar is highly absorbent and takes stain well. It's a great option for fences and decking when you want rich color and texture.

• Japanese Cedar: A newer product on the market in the U.S that shows promise as being a quality lower cost alternative to Western Red. It will require an additional coat since its surface is smoother.

• Douglas Fir: Common in framing and structural work. It’s more prone to warping if not sealed properly.

Drying times for wood sealants can vary based on several factors, including temperature, humidity, the type of wood, and the specific product being used. In general, warm and dry conditions promote faster drying, while cooler or more humid environments can significantly slow the process.

The lifespan of a wood sealant depends on several factors, including weather conditions, exposure to sunlight, and the type of wood. That said, Accurate Stain and Sealer typically provides reliable protection for about 3  to 5 years under normal outdoor conditions.

Yes, you can! Staining over an existing stain is a great way to refresh or change the look of an older fence. However, there are a few important factors to keep in mind before getting started:

• Type of Existing Stain: If the wood has an old oil- or water-based stain, compatibility can sometimes be an issue. To get the best results, we recommend power washing the surface to remove as much of the previous stain as possible. This helps prepare the wood for better absorption and a more even finish. Once clean and dry, applying Accurate Stain and Sealer will help ensure strong adhesion and long-lasting protection.

• Condition of the Wood: The surface must be clean, dry, and free from peeling or flaking stain. Any buildup, dirt, or mildew should be thoroughly cleaned or stripped to ensure the new stain adheres properly.

• Opacity Matters: If the existing stain is dark or solid, you may be limited in how much you can change the color unless you're applying an equally opaque or darker stain on top.

• Test First: Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to see how the new stain interacts with the old one. This helps you avoid surprises and ensures the final result meets your expectations.

With proper prep and the right product, staining over stain can give your wood a whole new life.

Yes, applying additional coats of wood stain will deepen the color and darken the overall appearance. This is often how homeowners and professionals achieve a richer, more uniform tone.

However, it’s important to let the first coat dry completely before deciding if a second coat is necessary. Keep in mind that the more coats you apply—especially with darker stains—the less visible the natural wood grain will be. If preserving the wood’s texture and character is important to you, one well-applied coat may be enough.