What Is Used on Oak to Help Even Out Staining Colors?

Choosing the Stain

• Thick, oil-based, professional-grade stains will give an even finish that may be difficult to achieve when using conventional stains. These stains are so thick that they don't require multiple applications. Professional-grade stains are usually available for sale by flooring companies that also sell hardwood floor boards. Be sure to shake the stain and mix it well before using it. Oak stains are medium to light. Remember that the darker the stain, the less likely it is to show imperfections and an uneven stain application, so if that issue concerns you, choose medium-dark stains rather than lighter stains.

Edger

• Stain wipes on easily and evenly with paint edgers, available at home improvement stores. These large pads will cover a great deal of area quickly and evenly. Brush the stain onto the edger with a paintbrush, then apply it to the floors in even strokes, moving with the grain.

Rags

• Wipe off the stain with a clean rag once it has been applied. You may use a real cloth or thick paper rag. The longer the stain sits on the floors, the darker the floors will become. Wipe the stain off using circular swoops with the rag. Replace the rag when it becomes too saturated. After you've applied a coat of stain and wiped it clean, step back and look for areas of darker and lighter application. An uneven application on a lighter wood like oak will be obvious, so be sure to scan the room before putting away the stain. If you find an area that is lighter than surrounding areas, you may need to apply more stain to that specific area.

Polyurethane

• Applying polyurethane is the last step to finishing your wood floors. Polyurethane will darken the floors and help even out any inconsistencies of color. Wait for the stain to be entirely dry before applying polyurethane.