Can Stained Wood Be Painted Over?

Derek Obringer • March 28, 2023

Painting over stained wood is a common project. Many Pittsburgh homes are older, and from a time where stain was more commonly used on trim than paint. It can be tricky to get the job done right, but it's definitely possible! Here are some tips and tricks for painting over stained wood so you get the best results.

Prepare the Surface

Before starting any project, the interior painters you have hired will prepare the surface properly. Depending on how big the job is, prepping the surfaces, and painting can take a while. It is important to take the time for preparation, especially with stained wood. Stained wood usually has a polyurethane sealant on top that will not allow the paint to adhere properly unless it is chemically removed or sanded down first. Your interior painters will use medium-grit sandpaper to scuff up the surface of the wood before applying primer and paint. This ensures that there’s enough texture for the new coating to bond with the old one.

Wipe Down and Prime the Surface

Once they've sanded the wood, they will need to wipe it down with tack cloth which will help remove any wood dust particles or residue. It will be important to avoid using paper towels or other clothes because these types of towel will not properly clean the wood, and can leave behind pieces on the wood, making it dirtier than before.

Coat the Wood with Primer

Applying a primer is important. Many DIY painters will choose to skip the primer after sanding, considering it sufficient, but this is not the case. Using a primer is essential for interior painting projects as it will give the new paint a better chance of adhering to the surface. Make sure you use a quality primer designed specifically for wood surfaces.

Wipe Down the Primed Wood

Once the primer is fully dry, it is important to use a fresh tack cloth to wipe away any thicker wet spots. Same as mentioned above, it is important not use paper towels for this step. Some people even opt to sand the primer lightly with a fine grit, but this depends on the primer.

Paint Your Prepared Interior Wood

If the project at hand features furniture or cabinets, a brush and roller are ideal for getting into crevices and corners. However, if you’re painting large flat surfaces like walls , spraying is more efficient. Spraying paint instead of rolling it requires a bit more technique so that overspray does not become a problem. Rollers will often give a more even finish and texture, and even adhere better.

With the proper preparation and techniques, painting over stained wood can be successful! Keep these tips in mind when tackling your next interior paint job.

Use a Professional Interior Painter

Our team of interior painters has the expertise and the tools needed to transform your interior walls, trim, doors, and other areas, including areas with stained wood. Contact us today to learn more about our interior painting services.

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Author: Derek Obringer

Owner & Founder of Obringer's Painting and Remodeling, Derek Obringer brings attention to detail, together with experience, and superior customer service into each and every home that his company does work.

Painting And Remodeling Blog

General Contractors vs. Kitchen Remodeling Contractors: Which One Do You Need?

By Derek Obringer • March 27, 2025

General Contractors vs. Kitchen Remodelers: Key Differences When planning your kitchen renovation, choosing the right professional is crucial. Should you hire a general contractor or a kitchen remodeling contractor ? While both handle renovations, their expertise and scope of work differ significantly. General Contractors General contractors oversee large-scale remodeling projects, such as whole-home renovations or additions. They handle structural changes, electrical and plumbing work, and permit approvals. Because they manage multiple subcontractors and coordinate various trades, hiring a general contractor is typically more expensive. They are best suited for projects that go beyond just the kitchen. Kitchen Remodeling Contractors Kitchen remodelers specialize in kitchen-specific renovations, focusing on layout, design, and materials. They often work directly on the kitchen, rather than overseeing multiple subcontractors. Because their expertise is limited to one area of the home, they provide more cost-effective solutions for homeowners looking to upgrade their kitchens without altering other spaces. Which One Do You Need? If your project involves multiple rooms or structural changes, a general contractor is the best choice. However, if your renovation is kitchen-focused and you want a more budget-friendly approach, a kitchen remodeling contractor is the way to go. Understanding these differences can help you make the right decision for your home renovation needs. Key Differences: General Contractors vs. Kitchen Remodelers When planning a home renovation, it's essential to understand the key differences between general contractors and kitchen remodelers to ensure you hire the right professional for the job. While both play crucial roles in home improvement, their scope of work, expertise, cost, and project management styles vary significantly. 1. Scope of Work The primary difference between a general contractor and a kitchen remodeler is the scope of work they handle: General Contractors: General contractors oversee broad renovation projects that may involve multiple rooms, entire home remodels, or structural changes. Their responsibilities often include: Managing large-scale renovations, including home expansions and floor plan modifications. Overseeing structural changes such as removing walls or adding new rooms. Coordinating various subcontractors, such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters, to complete the project efficiently. Kitchen Remodelers: Kitchen remodelers, on the other hand, specialize exclusively in kitchen renovations. Their work is focused on: Optimizing kitchen layout design for better functionality and efficiency. Installing cabinetry, countertops, backsplashes, and appliances. Choosing the best materials, finishes, and storage solutions for an aesthetically pleasing and practical kitchen. If your project involves multiple rooms or structural modifications, a general contractor is necessary. However, if your focus is solely on updating or redesigning the kitchen, a kitchen remodeler is the better choice. 2. Expertise & Specialization The level of expertise required for a renovation depends on the type and complexity of the project. General Contractors: These professionals have broad knowledge across multiple trades, including: Structural modifications (e.g., knocking down walls or adding load-bearing beams). Electrical and plumbing work to support home expansions. Permitting and building code compliance for large-scale projects. Kitchen Remodelers: In contrast, kitchen remodelers focus specifically on kitchen design, materials, and functionality, which includes: Understanding the latest kitchen trends and space-saving solutions. Customizing cabinets, countertops, and islands for improved workflow. Ensuring optimal appliance placement to enhance efficiency. If your renovation requires significant structural changes, a general contractor is the right choice. However, if you want a kitchen tailored to your lifestyle and design preferences, a kitchen remodeler's specialized knowledge is more beneficial. 3. Cost Considerations Cost is a major factor when choosing between a general contractor and a kitchen remodeler. General Contractor: In most cases, they will charge a percentage of the total project cost, often ranging between 10% and 25%. Their services are more expensive due to the larger scale of work and involvement of multiple trades. Costs may include permits, labor for structural changes, and extensive material selections. Kitchen Remodeling Company: Offer a more budget-friendly option for homeowners focusing solely on the kitchen. Since they specialize in one area, their labor and material costs are often more predictable and controlled. Homeowners can choose from different levels of renovation, from minor upgrades to high-end, custom kitchen designs. If you're planning a whole-home remodel or structural work, a general contractor's higher costs are justified. However, if you need a cost-effective kitchen transformation, a kitchen remodeler is the smarter financial choice. 4. Project & Subcontractor Management Managing a renovation project requires careful coordination, and the approach differs between general contractors and kitchen remodelers. General Contractor: Act as project manager, hiring and overseeing subcontractors for various tasks such as flooring, plumbing, and HVAC installation. Ensure all trades work in sync to meet project deadlines. Handle any unexpected construction challenges, such as hidden electrical issues or outdated plumbing. Kitchen Remodeling Company: Typically, they work with a smaller, more specialized team of designers and craftsmen. Provide a hands-on approach by focusing on specific kitchen elements, ensuring quality control throughout the project. May still work with subcontractors (e.g., electricians or plumbers) but on a much smaller scale than general contractors. If your renovation involves multiple professionals across different areas, a general contractor is necessary. However, if you prefer a more direct and focused approach for your kitchen, a kitchen remodeler provides the expertise needed. Both general contractors and kitchen remodelers bring valuable skills to the table, but their expertise is suited for different types of projects.