http://banistersandrailings.com/how-to-stain-oak-stair-parts/

1. How to Stain Oak Stair Parts
Oak stairs are commonly installed in houses. Wood is the most commonly used material for stair parts which includes handrails, newel
posts, treads and spindles. It does not only provide safety to people using them but also gives an added touch of beauty and elegance
to the interior of the house. Even with proper care, the time will come that the oak stair parts will eventually need to be repainted or
stained.
Staining the oak stair parts is easy. Anyone can do this. However, for starters, it is advisable to seek the help of a professional to do the
staining to make sure that the oak stair parts are not damaged during the process. A little mistake in scraping off the old stain of the oak
stair parts will result to dented parts.
When staining oak stair parts, the following materials are needed:
Sander
Floor scraper
Tack cloth
Stain
Protective polyurethane
1.Before applying a new stain on the oak stair parts, the old stain and polyurethane finish should be removed completely. Use a sander
to do this. The old stain and polyurethane finish should be completely scraped off from all the oak stair parts.
2.With the use of a floor scraper, remove all the remaining finish on all the oak stair parts, including in the corners and cracks.
3.Once all the old stain and polyurethane finish were completely removed, clean the staircase from dirt and wipe all the oak stair parts
using a tack cloth.
4.Once the oak stair parts are already clean, a new stain can be applied thinly using a rag. Smear marks will appear on the oak stair
parts when the stain is applied too thick. If a darker stain is preferred, it should be applied in multiple coats.
5.Once the stain has completely dried, a coat of protective polyurethane can be applied using a rag.
Just a few tips. It is important to schedule the staining of oak stair parts during a sunny or dry season. Rainy or humid weather will
make the stain dry slowly. Also, polyurethane has two types: water-based polyurethane and an oil-based polyurethane. A water-based
polyurethane dries quicker than an oil-based type, plus it stays clear as it ages.
For more information on Banisters , including other interesting and informative articles and photos, please click on this link:
How to Stain Oak Stair Parts