I have an enclosed porch that was just rebuilt. I want to stain the floor (semi-transparent) to let the beauty of the wood show through. It's a new tongue & groove fir porch that is a bit dirty from the construction. Will cleaning with deck cleaner remove all the dirt? I am reticent to use deck cleaners, as it is not an open deck construction & water will not flow through & off the floor, but sit & penetrate. Is sanding a better option in this circumstance, and if so, what final grit would allow the best stain penetration? I am looking at TWP 1500 in rustic oak for the stain. I live in Wisconsin, and the porch is not heated, so I don't want to use any coat-forming products.
Thanks!
Phyl
New wood should weather and dry out. TWP suggests waiting for 4-12 months then clean and brighten to prep. We are not a big fan of sanding as sanding too smooth may hinder the stain's ability to penetrate. We would let it weather, prep with the cleaner and brightener. Let that dry for 3-5 days before applying the TWP.