While doing the stain job, it is important to apply stain toward the unstained area and then back into the just-stained surface. This is technique is commonly known as brushing or rolling from “wet to dry” and this would produce a smooth and uniform appearance without lap marks.
To avoid lap marks, let your edges blend into each other instead of overlapping your spray passes. You can see how I do this in the video, but this is the best way to avoid lap marks. Multiple thin coats are better than one heavy coat where you can have drips and lap marks.
One of the most important rules of staining in order to prevent lap marks is to apply material wet-on-wet. It is important to make sure that you maintain a wet edge by applying stain toward the area that is still not painted and then back into the just-painted surface.
To fix the lap marks, wash the wood with liberal amounts of denatured alcohol (the solvent for the dye you're using) and then re-dye.
What's the best way to prevent overlapping marks and streaks? Instead of applying a thick layer and trying to wipe it OFF before it dries, use a stain rag (white cotton knit, sold in paint departments if you don't have an old white t-shirt) with a bit of stain and wipe it ON in a thin layer.
A streaky finish is often the result of uneven application or not wiping off excess stain properly. This issue is particularly noticeable on large, flat surfaces and can detract from the wood's natural beauty. To prevent streaks, apply the stain in thin, even coats, and follow the wood grain with your brush or cloth.
Keeping a “wet edge” is the key to avoiding lapping paint. While painting, you need to move quickly enough so, the paint being applied can seamlessly flow into the just-applied paint.
In addition, applying the second coat while the first coat is still wet allows the stain to blend and create a more uniform appearance. It also helps prevent lap marks and ensures better adhesion between the coats.
For persistent streaks, use a vinegar-water solution (1 part vinegar to 10 parts water), but avoid harsh chemicals or wax-based products that can leave residue.
Rollers are a great way to apply wood stain as well for the speed at which you can apply the stain. However, when using rollers can be a disadvantage when you have hard to reach areas. If you are going to use a roller to apply your stain, make sure to have a brush as well for those hard to reach areas.
A FEW TIPS BEFORE YOU GET STARTED STAINING YOUR DECK
Apply stain when air and wood surface temperatures are between 50°—90°F. Avoid applying in direct sunlight. Don't apply stain if rain is in the forecast over the next 12—24 hours. Test a small area first and let it dry to make sure you're pleased with the result.
Staining Wet-on-wet:
This prevents creating two layers of paint as well as different color at the overlap and at the same time helps you avoid unattractive lap marks. You can also work slowly and remove the paintbrush from the wooden deck gradually at the time when it runs out of stain.
Applying the second coat too soon can result in peeling or uneven coloration, while waiting too long may hinder absorption. Manufacturer Guidelines: Most stains recommend waiting at least 4 hours between coats or until the first coat is completely dry.
Sand the area, and remove particles using a tack cloth to ensure the surface is smooth. Before applying stain to any wood project, we recommend utilizing a pre-stain wood conditioner. These oil-based formulas can be easily applied, and help prevent streaks. No need to let the conditioner dry.
If you've exhausted your paint supply or just don't want to bust out the rollers and do another coat over the lap marks, grab a piece of fine grit sandpaper and a wet sponge.
Patchy paint can result if paint has been applied unevenly. Patchy paint can be down to a variation in surface absorption. Walls might appear patchy if they have variation in texture. Using paint that is not fully mixed can cause a patchy appearance.
Lap marks while painting can occur for a variety of reasons, including: Letting areas dry before the applying paint to adjacent areas, causing overlapping edges. Using poor-quality paints. Painting a porous wall that makes the paint dry too quickly.
Let water-based stains dry for two to three hours and oil-based stains for four to six hours before applying a polyurethane sealer. The best way to get a smooth finish is to apply the first coat of sealer, let it dry, and then lightly sand the surface with 220-grit sandpaper before applying a second coat.
It's usually due to applicator lap marks which you can fix, but you need to leave it for at least 7 days for the coating to harden up then lightly sand the lap marks out and recoat the deck. When coating large areas, work in sections, apply long strokes and use natural breaks in the boards as stopping points.
Any blotch-prevention program starts with evenly sanding to 180 grit on face grain, and to 220 grit on end grain. If you use a random-orbit sander, follow up by hand-sanding with the grain using the same final grit. After sanding, wipe all surfaces with mineral spirits and inspect for scratches or sander swirls.