Woodguard Exterior Stain - Free Shipping on 5 Gallon Pails
Woodguard Color Chart - On Eastern White Pine
Woodguard Color Chart - On Southern Yellow Pine
Woodguard Color Chart - On Cypress
WoodGuard Stain - 1 Gallon Pail
Woodguard Stain 5 Gallon Pail
Woodguard Stain - 2 Oz. Sample Jar
Woodguard Exterior Stain - Free Shipping on 5 Gallon Pails
Woodguard Color Chart - On Eastern White Pine
Woodguard Color Chart - On Southern Yellow Pine
Woodguard Color Chart - On Cypress
WoodGuard Stain - 1 Gallon Pail
Woodguard Stain 5 Gallon Pail
Woodguard Stain - 2 Oz. Sample Jar

Woodguard Stain

Woodguard is an oil-based exterior wood preservative for log homes, wood siding and shake shingles. Woodguard protects against fading and discoloration due to decay, fungus and mold while providing water repellency by penetrating deeply into the wood.
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Free Ground Shipping on 1 Gallon and 5 Gallon Pails
We are offering free shipping for 1 gallon and 5 gallon pails of this product purchased online and shipping to the Lower 48 United States. Offer does not apply to Alaska, Hawaii, and the US Territories. Free Shipping applies to this item only and not the entire order.

WoodGuard Exterior Stain is an oil-based exterior wood preservative for log homes, wood siding and shake shingles. WoodGuard protects against fading and discoloration due to decay, fungus and mold while providing water repellency by penetrating deeply into the wood. Only one coat is needed with this quality product that begins protecting wood with the first application.

WoodGuard also protects against cupping, curling and warping as well as insects such as powder post beetles and termites. WoodGuard is VOC compliant in all 50 states. The active ingredient, copper 8 quinolinolate is suitable for use on wood that may have incidental food contact.

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Features and Benefits
• Exceptional water repellency on sloping and vertical surfaces.
• One coat coverage. (Apply to the point of refusal.)
• Controls mold and decay as well as wood cupping and warping.
• Toxic to termites and anobiid powderpost beetles.
• Well suited for applications where environmental safety is needed.
• Active ingredient Copper 8-Quinolinolate will not photodegrade.
• Highly UV-stable.

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Recommended Usage
• WoodGuard can be used on siding, trim, doors, garage doors, windows, logs, fences.
• WoodGuard stain should not be used on and horizontal surfaces that may be walked on such as a deck. Please check out WoodGuard SWO or Sikkens Proluxe Cetol SRD if you are in need of a premium deck stain.

Woodguard Color Chart

WoodGuard Stain Sample Cans
• We highly recommend that you try a sample can of any new stain color you are considering. The finished color of translucent stains can vary substantially based on species, texture, porosity of wood, and application technique. Sampling on your own wood is inexpensive and the best way to make sure you get the color you want for your home.

Product Resources:
• Woodguard Product Brochure

Woodguard Application & Technical Resources:
• Woodguard Stain Application Guide
• Woodguard Stain Product Guide
• Woodguard Stain Safety Data Sheet

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Coverage Rate and Maintenance Coat Schedule
• Coverage areas per coat for WoodGuard is as follows:
• On smooth surfaces or hardwoods, 200 sq. ft/gallon.
• Old Weathered Wood: 1 coat to the point of refusal. Approximately 75 – 100 sq. ft./gal.
• Actual coverage may vary depending on the type, age and texture of the wood and application method.
• A second application of WoodGuard will be required 2-4 years after the first application.
• South and West exposures may require treatment before North and East exposures.
• Apply as needed in subsequent years.

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Application Methods
• Sprayer – Low-pressure spray or “pump-up spray” equipment is suitable. Set nozzle to deliver a low-pressure, coarse spray. Do not use airless spray equipment.
• Brush – A regular paintbrush is fine for most surfaces. For uneven or rough surfaces, use a stiff-bristle brush.
• Roller – Use a long nap for rough surfaces.
• Apply to refusal (until WoodGuard starts to run) and have someone follow to back brush the applied WoodGuard to a smooth uniform coating.

WoodGuard Special Instructions for Decks
• Add one quart of turpentine to each 5 gallon pail of Woodguard to be used and mix well prior to application on decks to improve penetration and curing.

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Surface Preparation
• If the wood has been treated with another product, it must be removed with a chemical wash.
1. Working in small, manageable sections from the bottom up, spray the surface with clean water, thoroughly wetting the wood.
2. Generously apply a solution of Tri-Sodium Phosphate (TSP) and an outdoor strength bleach (One cup of TSP dissolved in 3 quarts warm water then add one quart of outdoor bleach) using a garden pump sprayer.
3. While the surface is still wet, spray on the TSP and bleach solution and scrub with a stiff-bristled nylon brush. Keep the surface moist for 15 – 20 minutes. (Do not let the solution dry on the wood). This will clean and open the wood pores to really accept the WoodGuard treatment. For the best result, this is the preferred method to prepare the wood surface for WoodGuard.
4. Wash the surface with clean water from the top down using a low-pressure (<500 PSI) high water volume sprayer, keeping the nozzle one foot from the wood surface.
5. After the excess water has dripped off the wood, measure the pH of the water droplets on the bottom log or board. If the pH is the same as the rinse water, you may go to the next area.
Note: If the pH is greater then that of the rinse water, additional rinsing is necessary. Proper rinsing is a very important step.
6. Let surface dry completely (moisture content below 18%). Usually after 3 days, sand with a fine grit paper to remove “fuzz” formed from scrubbing action of the scrub brush.
• Before applying WoodGuard, ensure that the surface is clean and the wood is free of mill glaze and dry to <18% moisture content.
• Mill glaze is a resinous surface barrier that is created in the log sawing and milling process. It must be removed prior to application of WoodGuard to allow maximum penetration of WoodGuard. This can be accomplished by washing the wood with a dilution of Tri-Sodium Phosphate (TSP) in a gallon of water and a pressure spray water rinse.

Caulking Cracks, Checks, and Gaps:
• Fill all joints, cracks and nail holes with a quality oil-based caulk/filler over newly cured WoodGuard.
• Any cracks or checks that are upward facing which can hold water need to be sealed immediately to prevent any future rot or decay.
• Some larger cracks may need Closed Cell Backer Rod to help insulate and fill the space in ensure a proper seal.
• An annual inspection of all corners, butt joints, windows and doors is helpful in insulating and maintaining the life of your log home.

Checking Moisture Content Before Staining
• WoodGuard Stain cannot be applied when the moisture content of the wood is over 18%.
• If applied on wood with over 18% moisture content, mold and mildew may grow beneath the finish which may cause failure over time.
• It is recommended to use a Moisture Meter to test the moisture content of your wood before starting your staining project. A good moisture meter can be purchased am most hardware or home improvement stores.

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Application Instructions
• Apply to refusal (until WoodGuard starts to run) and have someone follow to back brush the applied WoodGuard to a smooth uniform coating.
• Do not apply WoodGuard if the overnight low temperature is below 50°F/10°C or the daytime high temperature is above 95°F/35°.
• At temperatures of 50-55°F, thin the WoodGuard with turpentine or mineral spirits (0.25 quarts or 1 cup) to 1 gallon WoodGuard. If WoodGuard is not diluted, a heavier coat of WoodGuard will be applied than desired and a darker color will result.
• Avoid contact with plants, shrubs and trees. Apply liberally to log homes and siding.
• Apply evenly; back brushing or back rolling to remove drips and sags as necessary. The more WoodGuard that is absorbed, the longer the treatment will last.
• Be aware that warm logs (wood) will absorb more WoodGuard than will cold logs/wood. Old weathered wood will absorb more than new unseasoned wood. If possible, plan treatment accordingly for maximum results and longevity.
• Retreat when the surface discolors and darkens when sprinkled with water OR when colors needs refreshing from years of sun exposure. The south and west sides may need treatment 1 to 2 years before the north and east sides.
• Cure time: approximately two weeks at 70°F (less if warmer).

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Do’s and Don’ts
Application Do’s…
• Perform color and batch checks before application.
• Apply product liberally in the direction of the grain, and completely saturate cut ends.
• A wet edge is not required throughout the process.
• Apply one heavy coat.

Application Don’t’s…
• Apply WoodGuard when the overnight low temperature is below 50°F/10°C or the daytime high temperature is above 95°F/35°.
• Apply when dew, frost, or other surface moisture is present.
• Apply in wet weather or excessively humid conditions.
• Apply if the moisture content of the wood is over 18%.
• Apply more than one heavy coat.

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Clean Up and Storage
• WoodGuard cleans up with mineral spirits or paint thinner.
• Do not store in direct sunlight or hot conditions.
• Tightly reseal opened containers and store at room temperature.

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Maintenance Information
• All surfaces to be re-treated need to be cleaned as described above before treatment.
• Allow (3) three good drying days before application.
• Do not use an iron bearing brush because iron stain could later develop.
• One and a half years after construction, inspect your log home carefully for cracks (checks) in the logs that have formed due to drying since construction.
• Apply WoodGuard liberally in these cracks. A plastic ketchup bottle that will squirt a moderate stream of WoodGuard when squeezed works well.
• Brush the WoodGuard into the cracks to assure a uniform coverage. If the cracks are very deep (>1 inch) a caulk should be used.
• Surfaces subjected to standing water, chlorine, sprinkler systems, concrete flashback, water runoff from roof valleys or other harsh conditions may require earlier retreating or spot treatments.

CA Residents Prop 65: www.p65warnings.ca.gov

Product Questions

  • How long is the shelf life

    Woodguard has an expected shelf life of at least two (2) years storage at normal temperatures (up to 80°F, 27°C).

  • Can I use Woodguard over Boracare?

    Boracare borate is a glycol based product which is not compatible with Woodguard so it is not recommended to use these two items together.  I would suggest other borate solutions such as Timbor or Armor Guard.

  • Can I apply clear woodguard over an oil based stain?

    Hello,
    I would not recommend this in most situations. Woodguard is an oil-based finish that is formulated to penetrate deep into the wood fibers. Most of the stains we see are coatings, which are formulated to leave a thin protective coat on the outside of the wood. If you try to apply Woodguard over an area that still has a coating intact, the coating will repel the Woodguard as it tries to penetrate the surface. Please call our office if you would like to explore options that may work better for you.

  • Can I paint Woodguard over my old stain?

    Woodguard is an exceptional oil-based penetrating oil which needs to applied over existing wood that has been stained with Woodguard or it needs to be applied directly to new wood.  This stain needs to be able to soak into the wood fibers and not lay on top of another finish.  

  • Can I get a 1 gallon pail of Woodguard Iron Gray?

    I'm sorry, ISK Biocides currently only makes the Woodguard Iron Gray color in 5 gallon pails.

  • Will mixing the dark walnut Woodguard with the clear Woodguard stain lighten the color of the stain so it doesn't come out too dark on the logs?

    You are correct. Mixing the Clear with the Dark Walnut should yield a more muted color than the Dark Walnut by itself. If you're looking for a medium brown color, you might want to sample the Honey 2000 or Tawny Cypress pre-mixed colors as well. We have free samples of all the Woodguard factory colors.

  • Can you apply Sand and Seal over Woodguard stain? Is it acceptable?

    I would highly recommend against this combination. Some Sand and Seal formulations may adhere over the top of Woodguard, but you can expect all of them to interfere with maintenance coats of Woodguard in later years.

    Most exterior wood stains are designed as coatings; that is, they will form a barrier at the surface of the wood that works like a flexible coat of armor. Coatings attempt to keep sun and rain from passing into the wood while allowing water vapor to escape from the coating when it's hot outside. You can think of this as being protection from the outside-in.

    Woodguard is formulated differently in that it is a deep penetrating oil. Their intent is for the stain to dive deep into the wood fibers, leaving little barrier at the surface. This pre-saturates the cells so that any moisture that enters the wood should be expelled. This protects the wood from the inside-out.

    When you need to do a maintenance coat of Woodguard several years later, a coating product like Sand and Seal will prevent the Woodguard from penetrating into the wood correctly.

  • Is there a clear top coat I can do as a maintenance over Woodguard? Say, maybe 3 or 4 years down the road?

    ISK Biocides makes a clear color option of Woodguard that you can use as a maintenance coat. It is the same product, just without any added pigment. Woodguard in Clear also has the same flat sheen level as the colors. Woodguard does not have a separate clear topcoat. Any coating that bonds at the surface of the wood can block Woodguard from penetrating deep into the wood fibers as intended.

  • Why does the Woodguard clear color have a green undertone?

    Woodguard utilizes an active ingredient known as copper 8-quinolinolate to aid in preserving wood from mold and mildew. Because it is copper based, this ingredient has a naturally greenish appearance. You can typically only see its presence in the clear Woodguard as the green tint is masked by the pigments in all of the tinted color options. The untinted Woodguard does dry clear and does not leave a green tint to your wood project.

  • What is the gloss level expected if the clear is applied to weathered logs? High gloss or low gloss?

    Woodguard is fairly unique in that it is a deep penetrating oil. This product was formulated to dive deep into the wood fiber in order to protect the wood from the inside out. By contrast, most finishes are formulated as coatings, and are intended to leave a thin, breathable barrier that will protect the wood from the outside in. Consequently, as the Woodguard moves beyond the wood surface, it will leave a matte (no/low sheen) finish, no matter whether the logs are new or weathered.

  • What is the color of the house shown on the Woodguard bucket?

    Our company spoke with a representative at Woodguard's manufacturer who informed us that the Warm Pecan color was used on this house.

  • I last used Woodguard several years ago and have a couple of gallons left over. Will this still be good to use or should I discard it?

    Woodguard has an exceptional shelf life so more than likely your leftover Woodguard should be just fine. When you get ready to restain, be sure and stir the older stain very well and then add it to your new product to blend or "box" the colors. If the older stain appears to be clumpy or thick, then I would suggest discarding it and proceed with new stain.

  • What does the Copper-8 Quinolinolate do?

    Copper-8-Quinolinolate is an insecticide used for a variety of wood protection and preservation purposes. It is toxic to wood decay and insects, but has low toxicity to humans and animals. For further information, here is a link to an in-depth article by the U.S. Forest Service: http://www.fs.fed.us/t-d/pubs/htmlpubs/htm06772809/page02.htm.

  • Can this product be sprayed on with an airless sprayer? Also, what is the coverage per square foot for each gallon?

    It is not recommended to spray on Woodguard with an airless sprayer because the product will not saturate the wood properly. Woodguard can be applied with a low-pressure or "pump-up" sprayer. When applying Woodguard with a sprayer, make sure that the nozzle it set to deliver a low-pressure, coarse spray.
    Woodguard covers approximately 200 sq. ft/gal. on smooth wood. Woodguard stain should be applied to the point of refusal.

  • How does Woodguard need to be applied? Is there a specific type brush that needs to be used?

    Below are the recommended application instructions for Woodguard stain:
    - Spray -- Low-pressure spray or "pump-up spray" equipment is suitable. Set nozzle to deliver a low-pressure, coarse spray. Do not use airless spray equipment.
    - Brush -- A regular paintbrush is fine for most surfaces. For uneven or rough surfaces, use a stiff-bristle brush.
    - Roller -- Use a long nap for rough surfaces. Apply Woodguard to the point of refusal (until it starts to run) and have someone follow to back brush the applied Woodguard to a smooth uniform coating.

DETAILS

Free Ground Shipping on 1 Gallon and 5 Gallon Pails
We are offering free shipping for 1 gallon and 5 gallon pails of this product purchased online and shipping to the Lower 48 United States. Offer does not apply to Alaska, Hawaii, and the US Territories. Free Shipping applies to this item only and not the entire order.

WoodGuard Exterior Stain is an oil-based exterior wood preservative for log homes, wood siding and shake shingles. WoodGuard protects against fading and discoloration due to decay, fungus and mold while providing water repellency by penetrating deeply into the wood. Only one coat is needed with this quality product that begins protecting wood with the first application.

WoodGuard also protects against cupping, curling and warping as well as insects such as powder post beetles and termites. WoodGuard is VOC compliant in all 50 states. The active ingredient, copper 8 quinolinolate is suitable for use on wood that may have incidental food contact.

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Features and Benefits
• Exceptional water repellency on sloping and vertical surfaces.
• One coat coverage. (Apply to the point of refusal.)
• Controls mold and decay as well as wood cupping and warping.
• Toxic to termites and anobiid powderpost beetles.
• Well suited for applications where environmental safety is needed.
• Active ingredient Copper 8-Quinolinolate will not photodegrade.
• Highly UV-stable.

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Recommended Usage
• WoodGuard can be used on siding, trim, doors, garage doors, windows, logs, fences.
• WoodGuard stain should not be used on and horizontal surfaces that may be walked on such as a deck. Please check out WoodGuard SWO or Sikkens Proluxe Cetol SRD if you are in need of a premium deck stain.

Woodguard Color Chart

WoodGuard Stain Sample Cans
• We highly recommend that you try a sample can of any new stain color you are considering. The finished color of translucent stains can vary substantially based on species, texture, porosity of wood, and application technique. Sampling on your own wood is inexpensive and the best way to make sure you get the color you want for your home.

Product Resources:
• Woodguard Product Brochure

SPECIFICATIONS
MORE INFORMATION

Woodguard Application & Technical Resources:
• Woodguard Stain Application Guide
• Woodguard Stain Product Guide
• Woodguard Stain Safety Data Sheet

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Coverage Rate and Maintenance Coat Schedule
• Coverage areas per coat for WoodGuard is as follows:
• On smooth surfaces or hardwoods, 200 sq. ft/gallon.
• Old Weathered Wood: 1 coat to the point of refusal. Approximately 75 – 100 sq. ft./gal.
• Actual coverage may vary depending on the type, age and texture of the wood and application method.
• A second application of WoodGuard will be required 2-4 years after the first application.
• South and West exposures may require treatment before North and East exposures.
• Apply as needed in subsequent years.

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Application Methods
• Sprayer – Low-pressure spray or “pump-up spray” equipment is suitable. Set nozzle to deliver a low-pressure, coarse spray. Do not use airless spray equipment.
• Brush – A regular paintbrush is fine for most surfaces. For uneven or rough surfaces, use a stiff-bristle brush.
• Roller – Use a long nap for rough surfaces.
• Apply to refusal (until WoodGuard starts to run) and have someone follow to back brush the applied WoodGuard to a smooth uniform coating.

WoodGuard Special Instructions for Decks
• Add one quart of turpentine to each 5 gallon pail of Woodguard to be used and mix well prior to application on decks to improve penetration and curing.

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Surface Preparation
• If the wood has been treated with another product, it must be removed with a chemical wash.
1. Working in small, manageable sections from the bottom up, spray the surface with clean water, thoroughly wetting the wood.
2. Generously apply a solution of Tri-Sodium Phosphate (TSP) and an outdoor strength bleach (One cup of TSP dissolved in 3 quarts warm water then add one quart of outdoor bleach) using a garden pump sprayer.
3. While the surface is still wet, spray on the TSP and bleach solution and scrub with a stiff-bristled nylon brush. Keep the surface moist for 15 – 20 minutes. (Do not let the solution dry on the wood). This will clean and open the wood pores to really accept the WoodGuard treatment. For the best result, this is the preferred method to prepare the wood surface for WoodGuard.
4. Wash the surface with clean water from the top down using a low-pressure (<500 PSI) high water volume sprayer, keeping the nozzle one foot from the wood surface.
5. After the excess water has dripped off the wood, measure the pH of the water droplets on the bottom log or board. If the pH is the same as the rinse water, you may go to the next area.
Note: If the pH is greater then that of the rinse water, additional rinsing is necessary. Proper rinsing is a very important step.
6. Let surface dry completely (moisture content below 18%). Usually after 3 days, sand with a fine grit paper to remove “fuzz” formed from scrubbing action of the scrub brush.
• Before applying WoodGuard, ensure that the surface is clean and the wood is free of mill glaze and dry to <18% moisture content.
• Mill glaze is a resinous surface barrier that is created in the log sawing and milling process. It must be removed prior to application of WoodGuard to allow maximum penetration of WoodGuard. This can be accomplished by washing the wood with a dilution of Tri-Sodium Phosphate (TSP) in a gallon of water and a pressure spray water rinse.

Caulking Cracks, Checks, and Gaps:
• Fill all joints, cracks and nail holes with a quality oil-based caulk/filler over newly cured WoodGuard.
• Any cracks or checks that are upward facing which can hold water need to be sealed immediately to prevent any future rot or decay.
• Some larger cracks may need Closed Cell Backer Rod to help insulate and fill the space in ensure a proper seal.
• An annual inspection of all corners, butt joints, windows and doors is helpful in insulating and maintaining the life of your log home.

Checking Moisture Content Before Staining
• WoodGuard Stain cannot be applied when the moisture content of the wood is over 18%.
• If applied on wood with over 18% moisture content, mold and mildew may grow beneath the finish which may cause failure over time.
• It is recommended to use a Moisture Meter to test the moisture content of your wood before starting your staining project. A good moisture meter can be purchased am most hardware or home improvement stores.

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Application Instructions
• Apply to refusal (until WoodGuard starts to run) and have someone follow to back brush the applied WoodGuard to a smooth uniform coating.
• Do not apply WoodGuard if the overnight low temperature is below 50°F/10°C or the daytime high temperature is above 95°F/35°.
• At temperatures of 50-55°F, thin the WoodGuard with turpentine or mineral spirits (0.25 quarts or 1 cup) to 1 gallon WoodGuard. If WoodGuard is not diluted, a heavier coat of WoodGuard will be applied than desired and a darker color will result.
• Avoid contact with plants, shrubs and trees. Apply liberally to log homes and siding.
• Apply evenly; back brushing or back rolling to remove drips and sags as necessary. The more WoodGuard that is absorbed, the longer the treatment will last.
• Be aware that warm logs (wood) will absorb more WoodGuard than will cold logs/wood. Old weathered wood will absorb more than new unseasoned wood. If possible, plan treatment accordingly for maximum results and longevity.
• Retreat when the surface discolors and darkens when sprinkled with water OR when colors needs refreshing from years of sun exposure. The south and west sides may need treatment 1 to 2 years before the north and east sides.
• Cure time: approximately two weeks at 70°F (less if warmer).

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Do’s and Don’ts
Application Do’s…
• Perform color and batch checks before application.
• Apply product liberally in the direction of the grain, and completely saturate cut ends.
• A wet edge is not required throughout the process.
• Apply one heavy coat.

Application Don’t’s…
• Apply WoodGuard when the overnight low temperature is below 50°F/10°C or the daytime high temperature is above 95°F/35°.
• Apply when dew, frost, or other surface moisture is present.
• Apply in wet weather or excessively humid conditions.
• Apply if the moisture content of the wood is over 18%.
• Apply more than one heavy coat.

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Clean Up and Storage
• WoodGuard cleans up with mineral spirits or paint thinner.
• Do not store in direct sunlight or hot conditions.
• Tightly reseal opened containers and store at room temperature.

WoodGuard Exterior Stain Maintenance Information
• All surfaces to be re-treated need to be cleaned as described above before treatment.
• Allow (3) three good drying days before application.
• Do not use an iron bearing brush because iron stain could later develop.
• One and a half years after construction, inspect your log home carefully for cracks (checks) in the logs that have formed due to drying since construction.
• Apply WoodGuard liberally in these cracks. A plastic ketchup bottle that will squirt a moderate stream of WoodGuard when squeezed works well.
• Brush the WoodGuard into the cracks to assure a uniform coverage. If the cracks are very deep (>1 inch) a caulk should be used.
• Surfaces subjected to standing water, chlorine, sprinkler systems, concrete flashback, water runoff from roof valleys or other harsh conditions may require earlier retreating or spot treatments.

CA Residents Prop 65: www.p65warnings.ca.gov
REVIEWS
PRODUCT QUESTIONS

Product Questions

  • How long is the shelf life

    Woodguard has an expected shelf life of at least two (2) years storage at normal temperatures (up to 80°F, 27°C).

  • Can I use Woodguard over Boracare?

    Boracare borate is a glycol based product which is not compatible with Woodguard so it is not recommended to use these two items together.  I would suggest other borate solutions such as Timbor or Armor Guard.

  • Can I apply clear woodguard over an oil based stain?

    Hello,
    I would not recommend this in most situations. Woodguard is an oil-based finish that is formulated to penetrate deep into the wood fibers. Most of the stains we see are coatings, which are formulated to leave a thin protective coat on the outside of the wood. If you try to apply Woodguard over an area that still has a coating intact, the coating will repel the Woodguard as it tries to penetrate the surface. Please call our office if you would like to explore options that may work better for you.

  • Can I paint Woodguard over my old stain?

    Woodguard is an exceptional oil-based penetrating oil which needs to applied over existing wood that has been stained with Woodguard or it needs to be applied directly to new wood.  This stain needs to be able to soak into the wood fibers and not lay on top of another finish.  

  • Can I get a 1 gallon pail of Woodguard Iron Gray?

    I'm sorry, ISK Biocides currently only makes the Woodguard Iron Gray color in 5 gallon pails.

  • Will mixing the dark walnut Woodguard with the clear Woodguard stain lighten the color of the stain so it doesn't come out too dark on the logs?

    You are correct. Mixing the Clear with the Dark Walnut should yield a more muted color than the Dark Walnut by itself. If you're looking for a medium brown color, you might want to sample the Honey 2000 or Tawny Cypress pre-mixed colors as well. We have free samples of all the Woodguard factory colors.

  • Can you apply Sand and Seal over Woodguard stain? Is it acceptable?

    I would highly recommend against this combination. Some Sand and Seal formulations may adhere over the top of Woodguard, but you can expect all of them to interfere with maintenance coats of Woodguard in later years.

    Most exterior wood stains are designed as coatings; that is, they will form a barrier at the surface of the wood that works like a flexible coat of armor. Coatings attempt to keep sun and rain from passing into the wood while allowing water vapor to escape from the coating when it's hot outside. You can think of this as being protection from the outside-in.

    Woodguard is formulated differently in that it is a deep penetrating oil. Their intent is for the stain to dive deep into the wood fibers, leaving little barrier at the surface. This pre-saturates the cells so that any moisture that enters the wood should be expelled. This protects the wood from the inside-out.

    When you need to do a maintenance coat of Woodguard several years later, a coating product like Sand and Seal will prevent the Woodguard from penetrating into the wood correctly.

  • Is there a clear top coat I can do as a maintenance over Woodguard? Say, maybe 3 or 4 years down the road?

    ISK Biocides makes a clear color option of Woodguard that you can use as a maintenance coat. It is the same product, just without any added pigment. Woodguard in Clear also has the same flat sheen level as the colors. Woodguard does not have a separate clear topcoat. Any coating that bonds at the surface of the wood can block Woodguard from penetrating deep into the wood fibers as intended.

  • Why does the Woodguard clear color have a green undertone?

    Woodguard utilizes an active ingredient known as copper 8-quinolinolate to aid in preserving wood from mold and mildew. Because it is copper based, this ingredient has a naturally greenish appearance. You can typically only see its presence in the clear Woodguard as the green tint is masked by the pigments in all of the tinted color options. The untinted Woodguard does dry clear and does not leave a green tint to your wood project.

  • What is the gloss level expected if the clear is applied to weathered logs? High gloss or low gloss?

    Woodguard is fairly unique in that it is a deep penetrating oil. This product was formulated to dive deep into the wood fiber in order to protect the wood from the inside out. By contrast, most finishes are formulated as coatings, and are intended to leave a thin, breathable barrier that will protect the wood from the outside in. Consequently, as the Woodguard moves beyond the wood surface, it will leave a matte (no/low sheen) finish, no matter whether the logs are new or weathered.

  • What is the color of the house shown on the Woodguard bucket?

    Our company spoke with a representative at Woodguard's manufacturer who informed us that the Warm Pecan color was used on this house.

  • I last used Woodguard several years ago and have a couple of gallons left over. Will this still be good to use or should I discard it?

    Woodguard has an exceptional shelf life so more than likely your leftover Woodguard should be just fine. When you get ready to restain, be sure and stir the older stain very well and then add it to your new product to blend or "box" the colors. If the older stain appears to be clumpy or thick, then I would suggest discarding it and proceed with new stain.

  • What does the Copper-8 Quinolinolate do?

    Copper-8-Quinolinolate is an insecticide used for a variety of wood protection and preservation purposes. It is toxic to wood decay and insects, but has low toxicity to humans and animals. For further information, here is a link to an in-depth article by the U.S. Forest Service: http://www.fs.fed.us/t-d/pubs/htmlpubs/htm06772809/page02.htm.

  • Can this product be sprayed on with an airless sprayer? Also, what is the coverage per square foot for each gallon?

    It is not recommended to spray on Woodguard with an airless sprayer because the product will not saturate the wood properly. Woodguard can be applied with a low-pressure or "pump-up" sprayer. When applying Woodguard with a sprayer, make sure that the nozzle it set to deliver a low-pressure, coarse spray.
    Woodguard covers approximately 200 sq. ft/gal. on smooth wood. Woodguard stain should be applied to the point of refusal.

  • How does Woodguard need to be applied? Is there a specific type brush that needs to be used?

    Below are the recommended application instructions for Woodguard stain:
    - Spray -- Low-pressure spray or "pump-up spray" equipment is suitable. Set nozzle to deliver a low-pressure, coarse spray. Do not use airless spray equipment.
    - Brush -- A regular paintbrush is fine for most surfaces. For uneven or rough surfaces, use a stiff-bristle brush.
    - Roller -- Use a long nap for rough surfaces. Apply Woodguard to the point of refusal (until it starts to run) and have someone follow to back brush the applied Woodguard to a smooth uniform coating.