COVERAGE RATE

Apply when air and surface temperature between -10°F to a high of 110°F

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE APPLICATION STEPS

Before applying Expert Stain and Seal cleaning products or stain, make sure to protect any sensitive surfaces from overspray.  Can prewet surfaces needing protection with water prior to starting and wipe off any overspray with a rag while wet.  Expert Stain and Seal stain will not adhere to metal surfaces and overspray can be simply wiped off while wet.

PREPARATION

STEP 1 CLEAN  When recoating over previously applied Expert Stain and Seal brand stain, no need to strip and replace.  Simply  use a small amount of Ec0-Clean Cleaner (8 oz concentrate per gallon water) and rinse, then apply a new coat of Expert Stain and Seal.

For all other previously stained surfaces, need to remove all old stain down to bare wood before applying Expert Stain and Seal.  How to do this depends on age of previous stain and whether it is oil or water based.  Apply preparation products with a hand pump garden sprayer and then rinse and go to Step 2 (Step 2 not required when using Eco-Clean).

• For newer decks and fences less than a year old, first apply our Eco-Clean and then rinse.
• For older deck and fence surfaces to remove stains, organic growth and more that also have faded color or semi-transparent stain, first apply our Wood Cleaner and then rinse.
• For oil based stained decks and fences with extreme organic growth and more first apply the Wood Stripper and then rinse.
• For water based stained decks and fences apply Wood Stripper and Wood Stripper Booster in a blended mixture per gallon of 3/4 gallon of water with 8 oz Wood Stripper Booster (powdered concentrate) and 1 quart Wood Stripper Booster then rinse.
• MUST FOLLOW UP ON STEP 1 WITH STEP 2  PREPARATION AND USE WOOD BRIGHTNER TO NEUTRALIZE PRODUCTS USED IN STEP 1 (EXCEPT ECO-CLEAN)

STEP 2 NEUTRALIZE & BRIGHTEN

Wood Brightener is the go-to and required option after using one of the cleaners and strippers from Step 1 removing old stain, organic material etc from the surface.  It will renew the woods natural pH and color after washing and rinsing.

STEP 3 STAIN AND SEAL

Mix contents well before use, stir contents often during use. Do NOT hand mix with a stir stick but ideally use a Jiffy Style drill mixer.  Mix thoroughly for at least 3 minutes, making sure to move drill mixer from top to bottom as oil will sit on the surface and pigment concentrations may settle to bottom of container.

Ok to apply when air and surface temperature between -10°F and 110°F.  Moisture content of wood should be <18%.  Do not apply when rain expected within 4 hours on horizontal surfaces and within 1 hour on vertical surfaces to allow proper curing.

Be sure to protect areas surrounding stain project from potential overspray.  Can wet down surface with water prior to application of Expert Stain and Seal and then wipe off stain while wet (oil based stain and water don’t mix)

DO NOT THIN THIS PRODUCT. If using multiple pails of stain, mx them for consistent color uniformity. Apply using a brush, roller, stain mitt, stain applicator pad, or sprayer (airless, HVLP or hand pump garden sprayer).

For horizontal deck surfaces, do the entire deck at one time to avoid stop/start lines which can occur if allowing the stain to dry between applications.

Apply one coat by fully saturating the wood surface with a generous amount of stain using a “Flood Coat” (applying to refusal) but DO NOT ALLOW THE STAIN TO POOL OR PUDDLE ON FLAT SURFACES. Remove or spread out any stain left on the wood surface after 30-60 minutes from flat, horizontal surfaces. If excess stain not removed it may leave a shiny film on the surface, delay drying time, and cause premature failure.

EXPERT Stain & Seal self levels on vertical surfaces, while back brushing may be required on horizontal surfaces. Using a dry cloth or soft bristle brush (like one you would use to wash your car),

EXPERT Stain & Seal’s penetrating oils go deep into the wood, drying slowly for several days after application. Finished color can take up to several weeks for true color.

DO NOT walk on stained surfaces for 24 hours, allowing 72 hours for light traffic. 

APPLICATION TOOLS

Apply with brush, roller or sprayer.  Can use a hand pump garden, HVLP or airless type sprayer.

For Brush Application, consider using the Pro 7″ Fence & Deck Stain Brush. 

Using an airless offers the quickest application.  Can use a standard Graco 5-19 or 6-19 spray tip (or equivalent) with the spray tip held about 8″ – 10″ away from the surface.  For those experienced at spraying wanting a much quicker application process and wider area covered at one time while minimizing overspray suggest a 12-23 low pressure spray tip, Graco Rac-X LP Switch Tip, (apply only 6″ from the surface) with an extension wand to allow you to get up close while moving very quickly across the project.

Need help in knowing how to properly use an airless sprayer?  Please see this video by leading spray equipment manufacturer Graco, How To Use An Airless Paint Sprayer.

CLEANUP

Use water for cleanup of any application tools or spray equipment.  Overspray will not adhere to metal surfaces but can be wiped off with a rag.

Backed by a two year manufacturers warranty.

Product has a 2 year shelf life.

NOTICE TO BUYER: DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES AND LIMITATIONS ON OUR LIABILITY We warrant that our products are manufactured to strict quality assurance specifications and that the information supplied by us is accurate to the best of our knowledge. Such information supplied about our products is not a representation or a warranty. It is supplied on the condition that you shall make your own tests to determine the suitability of our product for your particular purpose. Any use or application other than recommended herein is the sole responsibility of the user. Listed physical properties are typical and should not be construed as specifications. NO WARRANTY IS MADE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, REGARDING SUCH OTHER INFORMATION, THE DATA ON WHICH IT IS BASED, OR THE RESULTS YOU WILL OBTAIN FROM ITS USE. N0 WARRANTY IS MADE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, THAT OUR PRODUCT SHALL BE MERCHANTABLE OR THAT OUR PRODUCT SHALL BE FIT FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE. NO WARRANTY IS MADE THAT THE USE OF SUCH INFORMATION OR OUR PRODUCT WILL NOT INFRINGE UPON ANY PATENT. We shall have no liability for incidental or consequential damages, direct or indirect. Our liability is limited to the net selling price of our product or the replacement of our product, at our option. Acceptance of delivery of our product means that you have accepted the terms of this warranty whether or not purchase orders or other documents state terms that vary from this warranty. No representative is authorized to make any representation or warranty or assume any other liability on our behalf with any sale of our products. Our products contain chemicals that may CAUSE SERIOUS PHYSICAL INJURY. BEFORE USING, READ THE MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET AND FOLLOW ALL PRECAUTIONS TO PREVENT BODILY HARM.

Check out this project by a homeowner on his fence in the backyard with the Semi-Transparent Stain in the Pecan Color!

Homeowner Upgrades Pine Fence

FAQ – EXPERT Semi-Transparent Wood Stain & Sealer

What is a semi-transparent wood stain and sealer?

A semi-transparent wood stain adds richer color than a transparent stain while still allowing the natural grain and texture of the wood to show through.

EXPERT Semi-Transparent Wood Stain & Sealer uses deep-penetrating oils and trans-oxide pigments that soak into the wood fibers instead of forming a surface film. This helps protect the wood from moisture, UV rays, and weathering while maintaining a natural wood appearance.

What is the difference between transparent and semi-transparent wood stain?

The main difference is color coverage and UV protection.

Transparent stains:

• Minimal pigment

• Show the most wood grain

• Provide lighter color

Semi-transparent stains:

• Slightly richer color

• Better UV protection

• Help hide minor wood imperfections while still showing grain

Semi-transparent stains are one of the most popular choices for decks and fences because they balance appearance and durability.

What surfaces can this stain be used on?

EXPERT Semi-Transparent Wood Stain & Sealer is designed for many exterior wood surfaces including:

• Wood decks

• Wood fences

• Pergolas and gazebos

• Wood siding

• Cedar shakes

• Log homes

• Pressure-treated lumber

• Hardwood decking such as IPE

It works on vertical surfaces and light to medium foot-traffic horizontal surfaces.

How long does a semi-transparent stain last?

Most semi-transparent oil-based stains last 2–4 years before maintenance is recommended, depending on:

• Sun exposure

• Weather conditions

• Wood species

• Foot traffic

Because EXPERT Stain & Seal penetrates deeply and contains UV-resistant pigments, it helps maintain color longer and reduce wood fading and weathering.

Will this stain peel, crack, or chip?

No. EXPERT Stain & Seal is a non-film forming penetrating oil stain, which means it soaks into the wood instead of forming a thick surface layer.

Because of this, it will not chip, crack, or peel like film-forming coatings or paints. Maintenance typically involves simple cleaning and recoating instead of sanding or stripping.

Can this stain be applied in cold or hot temperatures?

Yes. This stain can be applied in extreme temperatures from −10°F to 110°F, making it suitable for nearly any climate.

This wide application range allows contractors and homeowners to stain wood surfaces during colder seasons or hot summer weather.

How soon can it rain after staining?

Rain resistance depends on the type of surface:

• Vertical surfaces (fences or siding): rain safe in about 1 hour

• Horizontal surfaces (decks): allow about 4 hours

This makes it easier to complete projects when weather conditions are uncertain.

How many coats of stain should be applied?

EXPERT Semi-Transparent Stain & Seal is designed as a one-coat flood application.

The recommended process:

1. Apply a generous coat until the wood is saturated

2. Allow penetration into the wood

3. Remove or spread excess stain from flat surfaces after 30–60 minutes

This single-coat system reduces labor and application time compared to multi-coat stains.

How much area does a gallon cover?

Coverage depends on wood type and porosity.

Typical coverage rates:

• 125–150 sq ft per gallon: rough cut lumber

• 175–200 sq ft per gallon: smooth wood surfaces

Older or rough wood typically absorbs more stain.

Does this stain protect against UV rays and mildew?

Yes. The formula includes UV-resistant pigments and mildew inhibitors to help protect wood from:

• Sun fading

• Wood graying

• Mildew growth

• Moisture damage

These additives help preserve the wood’s color and extend the life of the surface.

What colors are available?

EXPERT Semi-Transparent Wood Stain & Sealer is available in five semi-transparent colors:

• Pecan

• Mahogany

• Chestnut

• Walnut

• Sequoia

Because the stain penetrates the wood, the final color may vary depending on the wood species and porosity.

Can this stain be applied with a sprayer?

Yes. It can be applied with several tools:

• Brush

• Roller

• Stain pad or mitt

• Airless sprayer

• HVLP sprayer

• Pump sprayer

Many contractors spray the stain and then back-brush to ensure even penetration into the wood grain.

Can I apply this stain over an existing stain?

It depends on the existing coating.

If the previous coating is:

Penetrating oil stain

• Clean the surface

• Reapply stain

Film-forming stain or paint

• Strip or sand down to bare wood first

Proper surface preparation helps ensure the stain penetrates evenly.

What wood species work best with semi-transparent stain?

Semi-transparent stains work well on many wood species including:

• Western Red Cedar

• Redwood

• Pressure-treated pine

• Douglas Fir

• Hardwood decking like IPE

These stains enhance natural grain while adding color and protection.

When can the deck be walked on after staining?

Typical dry times:

• 24 hours: light contact

• 72 hours: light foot traffic

Penetrating oil stains continue curing as the oils absorb deeper into the wood.