We would recommend a complete strip of the varnish before applying a conventional paint system over previously painted varnish, however wood stain can be painted over without stripping.

Many hardwoods such as Oak and Teak, are naturally durable and have their own natural resistance to decay and rot. Most softwoods and “cheaper” hardwoods are not durable and must be treated with a preservative if they are to be used outside. Some of these timbers are treated in the factory to stop them rotting, but if this has not been done use a reputable pre-treatment.

Shade cards and colour labels should only be used as a guide. The following factors will all affect the final colour:

• The natural colour of the wood and any existing coating.
• The texture and absorption of the surface.
• The way the products are applied

On average, every litre of woodstain will give two coats, indoors and out, on two partly glazed doors or four windows.

Although timber is a porous, absorbent substrate, it will not “soak” water up like a sponge and therefore although the surface may be wet, the main body of the timber is likely to be dry. While it is difficult to be precise, two good drying days should be adequate. If rainfall has been for a longer period, as much as one week or more of dry weather may be necessary for the moisture content of the timber to reach an acceptable level.

With solvent-based paints, it’s usually surface contamination as the result of a poorly prepared surface. Water-based paints can be slow to dry in damp, cold conditions, or when applied to timbers that are oily by nature, such as teak. Wet solvent-based paint may be removed using cloths soaked in Mineral turpentine. If this is unsuccessful, completely remove the coating using a hot air gun or a suitable chemical-based remover. To remove slow-drying water-based paints, simply wash off with warm water and detergent solution.

Any reputable varnish would be suitable, as long as any water spillage is cleaned up straight away and not allowed to pool.

Paint applied over varnish or some wood stains can sometimes cause chipping if knocked. Varnishes are very hard films and adhesion to these surfaces is difficult. Should this happen, you’ll first need to thoroughly clean down the surfaces to remove all dirt, grease and surface contaminants. Then carefully scrape back poorly adhering or defective paint to a firm edge and rub down to “feather” broken edges. If chipping is severe, the surface will need to be totally stripped back. Dust off prior to repainting.