How to Stain PF Frames

Materials Needed

  1. Lint-free cloth
  2. Mineral Spirits
  3. Rubber gloves
  4. Masking tape
  5. 3"-4" soft bristle brush
  6. ZAR™ Wood Stain

Step 1: Surface Preparation

  1. Lay jamb horizontally on saw horses or a table.
  2. Remove all the hardware and mask off anything you don't want stained.
  3. DO NOT SAND GRAINED PF FRAMES.
  4. Wipe the jamb with mineral spirits to clean any dust or residue from the surface. Allow jamb surface to dry completely before applying stain.

Step 2: Stain Application

Starting at the center of the jamb, stain one to two panels at a time. Apply stain with a 3" to 4" soft bristle brush, or rag. Apply enough stain to fill the jamb grain. (Refer to the jamb staining diagram.)

With a clean, lint-free 24 x 24 inch cloth, softly wipe the surface until you reach your desired tone. TIP: When the rag becomes saturated with stain, re-fold to work with a less-saturated section. Be sure to use the same rag for the whole jamb.

After all the stain is brushed evenly you may add finishing touches by using a small 1" to 2" brush or cotton swabs.

Second Coat (if desired)

Allow the jamb to dry for at least 48 hrs between coats. Repeat as above.

Step 3: Protective Top Coat

Application of polyurethane top coat with UV inhibitors like ZAR™ Exterior polyurethane, Wood Kote® Flagship UV, or Minwax® Fast Drying Polyurethane for exterior applications

  1. After stain has completely dried (48 hours), mix the top coat well and apply evenly using a clean dry 2" soft bristle brush or 3" foam brush. Be sure to stop when the grain changes direction.
  2. Apply two or three coats of finish, allowing at least 24 hours of drying time between each application.

Normal Maintenance

Even a well-finished PF Frame will be affected by exposure and weathering from sun, moisture, and air pollutants. It is considered normal maintenance to re-apply the topcoat approximately every two years.

Due to the variability in finishing materials, application conditions and techniques, all of which are beyond the control of Plastpro . Plastpro cannot be responsible for the performance of field applied finishes or individual application techniques. 

*Staining instructions are for Oil-Based, Premium Quality Wood Stains or similar product designed for use on a fiberglass surface. Please note the instructions indicated are specific to the Zar brand stain included in our stain kit. Please reference stain manufacturers instructions before applying any stain.