Why Try Alternative Stains?
Hardwood flooring contractors are sometimes reluctant to change their “tried-and-true” methods when it comes to staining and finishing a floor. Alas, now with alternative stains like HyperTone, the flooring pro can substitute one step in the stain and finish process and gain several advantages. For one, in states with strict VOC regulations, HyperTone stains provides a solution that allows contractors to work with gallons and pints, rather than being limited to quarts. Additionally, HyperTone stains exceed expectations when used on challenging wood species such as maple, Douglas fir, and pine, where solvent-based stains can lead to uneven, blotchy results. With a consistent drying time, being able to use it with both oil-modified and water-based finishes, HyperTone gives contractors another valuable tool in their toolbox.
Benefits of Using HyperTone Stains
One of the standout benefits of HyperTone is how easy it is to apply. Unlike oil-based stains, HyperTone has minimal odor and can be easily wiped off the skin or surfaces with a damp cloth. This makes it a much more pleasant experience for both the contractor and the homeowner. Additionally, HyperTone’s water-based formula allows for a consistent drying time, regardless of the color or pigment used, eliminating the inconsistencies often seen with oil-based stains.
Easy To Apply HyperTone Stains
When applying HyperTone, Basic recommends two different application methods: hand-wiping and buffing. For hand-wiping, the process involves rolling on the stain, starting about an inch off the wall, and then using terry cloth towels to wipe it off. When applying each stain pass, it’s important to leave a gap of an inch or two between the new and existing stain, allowing for follow-up seamless blending with a buffer or pad. For a closer look at Dan’s application method, check out this video.
For the buffing application, the process is slightly different. The stain is rolled on in 2-foot sections, and a thick white non-woven buffer pad is used to remove the excess from the floor. This method allows for a more efficient and even application, especially on larger projects.
More On Buffing On HyperTone Stains
When buffing HyperTone, it’s crucial to add a product called Stain Glide. It is a non-toxic retarder that increases the working time to overcome the excess heat generated from the buffer. This is particularly important in dry climates, as it prevents the stain from drying too quickly. The buffing process involves rolling on the stain in 2-foot sections and then using the thick white pad to remove the excess, working your way across the room. This instructional video is available for buffer application.
Color Benefits & Using HyperTone Tint-Coat Method
One of the unique benefits of HyperTone Stains is in their ability to create vibrant, consistent colors, even on challenging wood species. This is thanks to the heavily pigmented, automotive-grade pigments used in the formula. Additionally, HyperTone offers the ability to tint the finish itself, allowing contractors to darken a floor without having to completely strip and reapply the stain. Note: this step can be challenging even for experienced flooring professionals. Tint-coating with HyperTone should be used with Basic Coatings water-based finished only. Remember, you can go darker in color but not lighter.
See for yourself how evenly and vibrant the colors are on the maple samples below. For a look at how Hypertone reacts on other species, click here.
Prepping For HyperTone Application
When preparing a floor before applying HyperTone stain, Basic Coatings District Sales Manager, Tim Young recommends sanding to 100 grit. Combined with this and water-popping allows for a more intense color reaction. Water popping the floor is important especially on softer or lighter species as it helps the stain penetrate more evenly. However, on red oak, water popping may not be necessary, as the more natural color of oak seems to absorb the pigment in the stain with great results.
What’s The Dry Time?
HyperTone typically dries within 4-6 hours, depending on the temperature and climate conditions. This allows contractors to move on to finishing without excessive downtime. The addition of Stain Glide helps maintain the open working time, particularly when buffing the stain but does not significantly affect the drying time. If final coating with oil-modified urethane finish, additional time is suggested by the manufacturer of 12 hours. A few stain colors like white, jet black and any combination blends with these colors will take longer to dry.
When using HyperTone stains to tint or hot-coat, default to the dry time of the finish rather than what is recommended for HyperTone.
How To Repair HyperTone
Repairing any issues with HyperTone, such as lap lines or heavy streaks, is relatively straightforward. Using a dry maroon pad, contractors can gently buff out the problem areas, evening out the stain without stripping too much of the color. For more localized repairs, use the same process as used previously: sanding sequence, water popping, and stain being careful not to overlap the adjoining boards.
Coating Over HyperTone
HyperTone is compatible with both oil-modified and water-based finishes, allowing contractors to use their preferred topcoat. The stain dries in a way that allows for a seamless application of the final finish, whether it’s a single or multiple coats.
Can You Mess Up HyperTone?
As with any stain application, there are a few pitfalls to avoid when applying HyperTone stains. The most common mistakes are easily remedied with this short list–
- Don’t overlap wet stain rows during application,
- Don’t try to buff the stain into the wood, just remove the excess stain,
- Don’t use a carpet pad to apply stain,
- Don’t apply a second coat of stain,
- Don’t apply a finish coat too soon before the stain is dry.
Overall, HyperTone stains offer a versatile and user-friendly alternative to traditional oil-based stains, providing contractors with high-performance products that deliver consistent, vibrant results while improving the application experience. By following the recommended best practices, contractors can confidently incorporate HyperTone stains into their flooring projects and provide their clients with exceptional, long-lasting finishes.
For more information, visit the RW Supply + Design website or connect with them on Instagram. You can also learn more about RW Supply+Design and their commitment to supporting businesses on LinkedIn.
We are happy to serve you!