Preparation of New or Weathered Wood

A great looking finish begins with the right start. Following the proper prep procedures will dramatically affect the look and longevity of your finished project.

For Best Results:

For expert guidance on properly preparing your wood surfaces, refer to our how-to steps below.

Make sure to follow all product label instructions.

Suggested Tools & Supplies
  • Bucket
  • Broom (Stiff Bristle)
  • Brush (2"-2½")
  • Bucket Grid
  • Chemical Resistant Gloves
  • Drop Cloths
  • Extension Pole
  • Vinyl Gloves
  • Hose
  • High Pressure Nozzle

  • Paint Can Opener
  • Paint Tray
  • Paint Tray Liner
  • Painter's Tape
  • Plastic Sheeting
  • Pressure Washer
  • Protective Apparel
  • Pump Sprayer
  • Rags
  • Roller Cover
  • Roller Frame
  • Stir Stick

Cleaning

  • Step 1

    Wet surface with water prior to cleaning. Apply cleaning solution liberally with a pump sprayer, mop, brush, or roller. Keep the surface completely wet with the solution for 10-15 minutes.

  • Step 2

    Scrub the surface using a stiff bristle broom or brush. The solution will foam.

  • Step 3

    After scrubbing, thoroughly rinse the surface area with clean water at normal pressure or using a pressure washer at low setting (500-1200 psi).

  • Step 4

    Let surface dry.  Next, lightly sand any loose wood fibers with medium grit sandpaper.

Priming

  • Step 1

    For interior and exterior wood applications, use BEHR PREMIUM PLUS® Multi-Surface Primer and Sealer.

  • Step 2

    To apply the primer, use a high-quality 3/8 - 1/2" nap roller cover, nylon polyester  brush or airless sprayer. 

  • Step 3

    Stir the primer occasionally. Do not thin if using a roller or brush. If using a sprayer and thinning is required, then thin with up to 1/2 pint of water per gallon of primer. Heavy stains may require two coats.

    The primer will dry to touch in 30 minutes and be ready to topcoat in 1 hour. Use the primer when air and surface temperatures are between 50-90 degrees F. Clean up with soap and water.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
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What sheen do I need?
8 Oz. Sample
1 Gallon
1 Quart
5 Gallon
The following product(s) is required to properly prep and pre-treat wood prior to any stain project.
Required product
BEHR PREMIUM ALL-IN-ONE WOOD CCCC
$0.00
The following product(s) is required to properly prep and pre-treat wood prior to any stain project. Only available in store at Home Depot.
Required 3rd party product
BEHR PREMIUM ALL-IN-ONE WOOD CCCC
The 9 in. x 1/4 in. Polyester Adhesive Roller Cover has a hard texture, making it ideal for applying all types of adhesives to smooth surfaces. It can be used for stippling and applying sand paints.
The following product(s) is recommended when stripping is needed.
$0.00
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