Precision Staining | How to Strip Water-Based Stain Off: Removal Tips

How to Strip Water Based Stain Off

Josh Richards • Dec 05, 2022

How to Strip Stain

Staining that is water-soluble is applied to flooring or furniture to produce more dark colors than natural wood. If, however, the darker shade is no longer desired or the need for a lighter stain arises, then the stain applied to the wood must be removed using the stripping process. Although it is a bit laborious, it opens the way for a fresh design much less costly than making your exterior wood from scratch.

Supplies Needed

Collect the following supplies to get rid of old water-based wood staining:

Tarps

Light-tack masking tape

Chemical stain stripper

Rag

Scraper

Mild detergent

Sandpaper with 80-150 grit

Wood Brightener/neutralizer

Pressure Washer

Step 1: Safety First

Wear protective gloves, clothes and goggles while working with the water-based wooden stain.

Step 2. : Prepare the area

Spread tarps across the floor to guard the base against spills and drips. Use masking tape with a light-tack adhesive to the surface that surrounds the woodwork. Cover the work area with a tarp or sheet to stop the surrounding areas from becoming filthy.

Step 3: Prewet the wood

Pre-wetting the wood helps in a few ways. First it can help by not soaking the chemical deep into the wood which can cause issues down the road. Second it helps to use less chemical which can save you money.

Step 4: Apply the wood stain stripper

Apply a wood stain stripper chemical explicitly designed for wood staining using water, following the manufacturer's directions. Many of them can be applied using a paintbrush, while others are sprayed on. It is crucial to follow the instructions of the manufacturer to prevent the wood from being damaged. Many stain and paint removal products are left on wood for between 5 and 10 minutes. The time can vary according to the specific product. Check the wood surface with a tiny area with a rag to check if the stain has lifted.

Note: Be sure to allow the stain stripper on the woodwork's surface until the time specified by the manufacturer's label or instructions. Time frames vary based on the active chemical. Some environmentally safe chemicals can take as long as one hour, whereas harsh chemicals can take anywhere from 10-15 minutes.

PRO TIP

A good way to tell if the stripper is ready to be removed is use the bottom of your boot to lightly scrape the wood where you applied the stripper. As soon as it starts coming off in multiple areas of the wood its time to remove the stain.

Step 5: Remove Stain

If the stain remover is at its best, it's time to remove it using one of two methods: using water and a brush or using a pressure washer. The water-based stain formulation may be eliminated by rinsing it with water and using pressure washers to the lowest pressure (soft cleaning). Using a scrub brush to agitate the stain to come off. Any left over stain on the deck that you cant get off you'll have to use sandpaper.

Note: If a portion of the stain is left on the wood, then lightly sand the woodwork with 80-150-grit sandpaper.

Step 6: Neutralize the stripper

To neutralize the chemicals:

Apply the neutralizer or wood brightener according to the instructions.

It should be left on for 5 to 15 minutes.

It should work immediately but let it dwell for 5-10 minutes

Wipe off using pressure washing

Dry it for at least 48 hours and check with a moisture meter before staining. It needs to be 12% to 18% moisture.

Tips

Knowing as much as possible about ways to get rid of wood stain from wood will allow you to choose the most effective method to complete your project.

Always check the stain remover on a small portion of the woodwork to ensure it's not too hard.

Do not use power sanders, ammonia or heat to remove wood stain unless you have previous experience with eliminating wood finishes using these methods. Short-cut methods to remove stains could irreparably damage wood surfaces. The majority of power sanders are used to build decks and floors made of wood. If you prefer using a sander to remove the stain, you should hire an expert so that you don't damage the wood.

Research thoroughly and ensure the removal method is suitable and safe for woodwork. There are secure methods to get rid of wood stain and keep your woodwork gorgeous.

Final Words

The staining process creates a natural wood-colored decorative trim. The removal of wood stain is required in the event of damage to the finish or if the color no longer fits the room's design. If you'd like professional assistance, get in touch with Precision Staining.

All content displayed on this website is protected by copyright laws. Downloading, republication, or reproduction of content on this website is strictly prohibited. © 2023 Precision Staining LLC. All Rights Reserved.