Frequently Asked Questions
Since 1953, Old Masters® has been dedicated to serving the needs of independent dealers, contractors and do-it-yourselfers. Continuing in that tradition, we have gathered your most commonly asked questions and provided answers for your convenience. If you have additional questions, please call 800-747-3436.
Can Old Masters® stains be mixed?
Yes. Old Masters® markets and distributes 5 types of stain: Penetrating Stain, Wiping Stain, Gel Stain, Fast Dry Wood Stain and H2O® Wood Stain. The four oil-based stains can be intermixed, tinted with universal colorants or mixed with a different Old Masters® stain. For instance, you could mix Old Masters® Wiping Stain & Old Masters® Gel Stain together to achieve a deeper color at a more workable consistency.  When you combine stains, you will alter the dry times, color intensity and viscosity; be sure to use a test area to familiarize yourself with these changes.  The H2O® Wood Stain can be intermixed or tinted with universal colorants but do not mix with the oil-based stains.
How do I achieve a darker color?
There are several ways to achieve a darker stain color.  After your first coat is thoroughly dry, you can apply a second coat to darken your hue.  When using our Wiping Stain and Gel Stain, the application method can enable you to darken the color; you can brush or wipe the stain onto the surface, followed by a gentle, even stroke of a dry brush where a thicker and enriched first coat will remain, therefore adding depth in one coat.  Depending on the depth of color you are trying to produce, a layer of multiple coats (with adequate dry time between coats) of different color intensities upon one another will create a darker and more dimensional look.  Old Masters® Gel Stain because of its intensified pigments can provide a deeper color in itself. Color creation is virtually limitless in its options. To create a darker color, you can tint your Old Masters® stains with universal colorants or add a stronger pigmented stain (such as Gel Stain).
Can Old Masters® stains be used outdoors?

Yes. All of our stains are labeled for “interior use”, however, you may apply any of our stains to doors, fences and outdoor furniture as long you as apply the Old Masters® Spar-Marine Varnish over the top.  This product was designed with ultra violet absorbers (UVA) to protect and endure weathering caused by exposure to the sun, moisture and varying temperature changes.  For example, you can wipe or brush the Old Masters® Gel Stain on to a fiberglass or carbonite exterior-facing door with Old Masters® Spar-Marine Varnish on top as its protectant clear coat.

When applying a stain or finish outdoors, the ideal temperature to apply these products is at 70º.  You may apply the stain or finish at lower temperatures; however, your dry times will be significantly extended.
Can Tung Oil be used on floors?
Yes.  Old Masters® 100% Pure Tung Oil is pure in form as derived from the nut of a Tung tree.  It is made to absorb into the wood to act as a moisture barrier, however, there is very little surface protection; the wood fibers may be exposed and allow scratching to occur. The advantage of using 100% Pure Tung Oil is that it provides a completely natural-looking, flat finish that can be repaired and re-applied easily without sanding or stripping the previous coat.  When applying the Tung Oil, make sure you wipe off the excess so the product will dry successfully.  When you have completed your project, dispose of your rags properly to avoid spontaneous combustion.
How many coats of clear finish are recommended?
The number of coats of clear finish used is directly related to the wood type, level of activity, usage or traffic in contact with each surface.  If you are finishing trimwork, two coats of a clear finish may be sufficient for years of beauty and protection.  However, if you are clear coating an exterior door or a floor, a minimum of three coats is essential for durability and luster.  At the peak of usage, more coats may be needed for optimal performance and continued brilliance.
Can lacquer be applied over Old Masters® Wiping Stain or Gel Stain?
Yes.  Lacquer can be used over Old Masters stains as long as adequate dry time is given.  Blushing is caused by trapping solvent from uncured stain under the finish.  Dry times are listed on product labels for each of our stains; however, keep in mind that many factors contribute to how a stain dries properly such as temperature, humidity, and thickness of stain application.