Armstrong Clark Stain Samples
Here is how our sample program works:
- Pick as many colors as you would like by placing a check next to each then click “Add to Cart”. Color swatches at bottom of the page.
- Samples are N/C but we charge $10 each to cover our shipping costs.
- Once you decide to purchase a stain from our site, you can use the money you spent towards the purchase of a 5 Gallon Pail of Stain!
- Maximum $15 discount per customer/household. Instructions on how to get a credit will be included with your samples.
*Sample program cannot be combined with any promotional discount coupons!
How To Claim Sample Credit
- Enter your sample order number into the “Comment Area” during checkout. The sample credit will be issued after the order for the 5-gallon pail is placed. Typically the next business day and will post to your Credit card or Pay Pal account within 3-8 business days.
Available Armstrong Clark Wood Stain Color Samples
Transparent Cedar Tone, Transparent Natural Tone, Transparent Redwood Tone, Amber, Mahogany, Semi-Trans Black Walnut, Semi-Trans Cedar, Semi-Trans Chestnut, Semi-Trans Driftwood Gray, Semi-Trans Natural Oak, Semi-Trans Rustic Brown, Semi-Trans Sierra Redwood, Semi-Solid Espresso, Semi-Solid Mtn. Cedar, Semi-Solid Oxford, Semi-Solid Sequoia, Semi-Solid Woodland Brown
We wanted our cedar deck posts to look natural, so our contractor added a clear sealant (before the posts were installed). Within 2 months the posts had turned nearly white because of the sun (lake house-facing east, Indiana). What can we use now to restore the natural color as best we can and protect this from happening again? Do we need to strip off the old sealant even though there is no beading or sign that the sealer is doing anything? If we need to, how would we strip off the old? You can see the front post is almost white while the ones in the back (in the shade) are what they should look like. We’d like to get back to natural as best we can.
Yes, you have to remove the sealer. What sealer did he use? Please post some pics of the deck.
How long does it take to receive samples in the mail?
Depends on where you live but typically 2-3 days.
Is there a good stainable wood filler that you could recommend?
Thanks,
Sorry but there is not. Wood fillers do not stain or work well with exterior wood stains.
I have a brand new deck (built with a pressure treated wood in last August). What are my options with regards to my deck looking greatest and lasting longer given the harsh Canadian winter?
Clean and prep with this:
https://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/restore-a-deck-kit
Stain with any AC color that you like:
https://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/wood-and-decking-stains
I have an older deck that has been stained with an oil based semi-transparent stain (Cutex, Walnut). I have stripped it but haven’t yet brightened it (that’s for tomorrow). It’s really gray. Will the semi-solid cover this “gray” shade effectively or should I look to a solid oil based stain? Also, I’m assuming you ship to Canada? If so, what delivery times should I expect?
Post some pics after applying the brightener and after the wood is dry.
Picture 1 attached
Pic #2
Pic 3
Hi John,
You have some leftover stain still on the wood. It should be removed as much as possible. BTW, if it was the same stain as the railings, it looks like a solid stain, not semi-trans. Where you did remove the stain fully, the wood looks ready to be stained and is not gray.
As for shipping time to Canada, that would depend on where in Canada. Ontario takes 2-4 business days.
The railings are all painted. The stain was not solid. The brighten really worked well by getting rid of the dull gray color. I’m still wondering about the pros & cons of a solid versus semi-solid stain. Thanks for your prompt replies.
The AC Semi-solid will penetrate better and have less chance of peeling.
Will semi solid hide wood filler repairs on deck?
No, it will not blend with deck stains unless the stains are a solid color to fully mask the filler and wood.
Can I intermix semi-trans cedar with transparent redwood? Looking to get a slightly redder version of cedar…
Yes, you can do this.
I used your products for the first time two years ago, chestnut on a cedar deck in full sun most of the time. Tried many products and after first year it need to be redone but this one has lasted. Looking good to do brown PT fence install last year and cedar pool house, garden shed and gazebo this year. All relatively new wood.
Reading other discussions and sounds like Amber is closest to the wet look. Does Amber show the grain? Would it last longer than a semi-transparent?
How does it look side by side on cedar and PT?
Amber shows the grain of the wood. It would last the same as a semi-transparent color. You would have to test it to see how it looks on your wood.
Hello. I’m deciding between Mahogany and Sierra Redwood for a new cedar fence that is in the process of being weathered outside prior to staining. I had a couple questions about the stains. Would both be recommended for cedar? Would they both offer similar longevity and UV protection? And in terms of aging, do these stains tend to darken or fade over time? Thank you, Dan
Yes, you can use any of the AC colors on cedar wood. Same longevity and UV resistance. They fade over time.
thank you! Is mahogany considered a semi-solid? And if so, does the new cedar need the same amount of time to weather before applying the stain for either of the two stains?
Mahogany is a semi-transparent. See this about new wood: https://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/new-decking-and-armstrong-clark-stain
Hello. I’ve used semi transparent cedar and have been happy with it but thinking about switching to amber. What is the major difference between the two colors in terms of tone? Any special prep to move to amber? I’m
Amber is slightly lighter in color but it does vary based on wood type and age of the wood. Strip and brighten for prep.
https://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper
Response
I love the natural colors of the mahogany deck on my covered porch which stain should I use to keep it the natural color not all one color?
You cannot keep the natural color and have UV protection from graying. You must choose a tinted color and that will enhance the grain of your wood and add color. The will still show the grain of the wood. Amber is a tinted color that will look similar to a wet look.
I purchased a 5 gallon of the Oxford Brown Semi-solid which looks great. I have a newly installed 200sq’ section of IPE hardwood and would like a color recommendation of the 3 hardwood stains that would somewhat blend if possible. thanks
You cannot blend that color and opacity with IPE wood. Black Walnut is more dark brown so probably your best option.
Do you carry water based stain?
AC does not come in water based stains.
Sorry – I meant to say Transparent Cedar tone or natural in my previous question. Not semi transparent. Thx.
Hi, I’m installing western red cedar T&G siding on a north facing wall covered by eaves, so it doesn’t get too much weather. I want to keep the look of this cedar as natural as possible. Would u suggest the semi transparent cedar or the natural? Does the natural mean it’s completely clear? I really don’t want it to get blotchy from the pigments. Also, should I oil the back side of the siding too?
Thanks so much,
A
Natural is tinted, not clear. It has to be tinted to prevent UV graying. No need to stain the backside, just the exposed wood after proper weathering and prep: https://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/new-decking-and-armstrong-clark-stain
Hi! I live in Canada, is that a problem for shipping me two samples to try? My beautiful cedar deck is one year old, and the “weather-proofing” product I put on it is still letting a lot of grey come through. It looks several years old already! The man who pressure washed my fence this spring recommended your products, but said they aren’t sold in Canada.
We sell all our stains and samples to Canada.
I have a rough sawn cedar house that now has tranformation stain on it its been abut 7 years now and would like to know which is best to use on it the sun has beaten the one side the other 3 aren’t as bad. After pressure washing of course would the semi-transparent be the best I don’t like solid stains.
Yes, use any of the semi-transparent colors.
We are laying eastern white cedar boards on our deck in Nova Scotia. About 800 sq/ft around a pool. Direct sunlight for 4-5 hours a day. Rest of the day is shaded by trees. We like the color of the cedar after it rains. What type (transparent, semi, color) to keep the same color under dry conditions. Thank you.
Amber.
Is the semi-transparent black walnut listed in the samples the same black walnut in the stain color picture card that is listed under hardwoods & softwoods? I’m staining a mahogany deck and want to make sure I use the correct stain.
Yes, there is only one Black Walnut stain.
What is the color component of the amber and cedar stain?
Not sure what you mean.
Is Amber a transparent or semi-transparent?
It is closer to the semi-transparent.
is your company able to tone down driftwood from blue looking to a grey color.
Sorry, but we do not custom mix or modify stock colors.
In 2019, I had a semi solid stain applied to the deck, PPG Russet. Now the deck is peeling in certain areas. Will I need to remove all the stain before I apply new stain or can I clean, sand in peeling areas, and apply new stain?
You will have to fully remove the old stain before switching brands.
My husband built a deck 2+ years ago and we have used Thompson’s water seal in the spring for the last 2 years can this product be used if Thompson’s was done in spring 2021
After you remove the Thompsons, then yes. Use this kit: https://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper
are the amber and mahogany samples the same as the semi-transparent stains for hardwoods (my deck is Massaranduba
Correct
great … anyway I can pay expedited shipping for samples? I have a tight window on a deck
Samples ship out day after order and ship 2-day UPS from there. They cannot ship any faster.
I recently bought a house with a deck that has not been maintained well and is currently grey. Should I use one of the semi solid stains or would I be able to use the Mahogany hardwood stain? I read somewhere that your semi solid stains were best for old wood but I love the Mahogany color.
You can use any of the colors that you want after proper prep:
https://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/restore-a-deck-kit
Make sure to test the colors as they will vary based on wood type and age of the wood.
Covering about 1500 sf of new fencing.
about how much product would I need?
thanks!
About 10-15 gallons for two coats.
Covering about 1500 sf of new horizontal slat redwood fence, rough texture wood common con.
put in 3 weeks ago. Dry climate. Full sun. Clean fresh fence.
can i proceed with a semi-transparent stain without the clean and prep steps?
about how much product would I need for 1500 sf of coverage?
one coat sufficient?
on horizontal pickets do I roll on horizontally with the grain or is traditional up and down okay?
Would you recommend a roller for the big parts/
6 “ picket boards ? Brush for posts and finer detail?
spongy fluffy roller or tighter fibers?
acrylic or natural fibers on brushes rollers?
thanks!
If rough sawn you can stain now as long as wood is dry. Probably will need two coats. Go with grain. Not a roller. Stain pads and brushes.
Thanks for speedy reply.
how long to dry in between coats ?
https://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/armstrong-clark-staining-instructions
Hi….we had a new deck built and completed 11/1/2021. Trex deck on horizontal including stair treads, and pressure treated pine on all verticals, rails and bench. We have waited long enough for staining (in TN). Do I need to pressure wash the verticals and bench with the RAD? How do I know how much stain to order for the verticals and bench?
See here about new wood.
https://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/new-decking-and-armstrong-clark-stain
as for how much product, we would need a total sq footage of all wood added up that is to be stained.
Can you apply two coats of Armstrong Clark stain, one week apart, to get a darker color and to provide more protection? I stainedd two sample test boards, one with semi-transparent Cedar and one with semi-transparent Natural Oak, and the sample boards don’t have the desired color. I’m thinking two coats would also provide more protection.
Yes but make sure you do not overapply.
I JUST ORDERED A SAMPLE OF OXFORD BROWN. THE AD PICTURE SHOWS 3 SMALL CANS. IS THAT WHAT I’M GOING TO RECEIVE?
One.
I just read on your tip sheet that a newly installed fence should not be stained until 3-4 months. Is the correct?
Yes.
Gazebo pic
Another pic
We have a new fence and would like to match it with our gazebo. Both are cedar and neither has been stained. Which stain would you suggest to match the two and maintain it’s natural beauty.
Any color you like will work since they are both unstained. See here about new wood tips: https://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/new-decking-and-armstrong-clark-stain
New construction home with wood fence that wraps around the property; fence has been there since July. Can I stain with “Hardwoods & Softwoods” colors? Also, what two colors can I combine to achieve the closest to an off black? I know I cannot use semi-solids because the wood is less than a year old.
You can stain it with any color that you like. The darkest color is Black Walnut. Nothing would be blacker and you cannot mix it blacker.
“You can stain it with any color that you like.”Meaning I can use semi-solid as well? Correct me if I am incorrect. It’s a plain ole wooden fence, typical new construction track home type.
You have to follow the new wood tips: https://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/new-decking-and-armstrong-clark-stain
Do your stains require sealer on top?
No and you cannot apply a sealer on top of a deck stain like the AC.
My mahogany decking fence was beautiful but a significant portion has a long southern exposure year round and the initial Cabot’s Australian Timber oil did not last 6 months. It is now streaked with gray, natural and black ash drips from rain. What can be done to weatherproof the fence and retain natural grain look with a neutral tone, slightly amber like it was originally?
Use this for prep to remove the Cabot:https://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/restore-a-deck-stripper
Stain with the AC in Amber color.
Hi there, trying to find a semitransparent or transparent stain with no yellow or orange hue, or very less of these colors? Prefer a lighter color. Any suggestions and help is truly appreciated!
All lighter colors will have a yellow hue. It is not possible to have a light brown with no yellow when you apply to exterior wood. You can do a medium brown like Rustic Brown or Natual Oak.
We are building a new house and have rough cut cedar wrapped around some posts we want to stain. Do we need to do any prep on them prior to staining?
No need if rough sawn cut as long as it clean and dry.
Hello. Two questions if I may: 1/ What size (fl oz) are the samples? 2/ Does an open gallon container of the stain, if properly sealed, last or will it become unusable in 6 – 9 months? I have a couple of small pieces to stain that probably require only a quart of stain, although i intend to reapply in the future. Thanks
1. 2-3 oz.2. Shelf life is about 12 months after being opened and properly resealed.
I applied one coat of rustic brown semi transparent stain yesterday in sunny 80 degree conditions, looked fantastic. Stain had soaked into wood, and then 6-8 hours later thunderstorm rolled in. This morning all looks good with water beaded but wondering should I remove standing water puddles in some manner? Supposed to rain again later in day too. Thank you!Lynn
No, it is fine.
I have log cabin with wrap around porch – approximately 1800 sq ft. It is 16 years old – was initially stained/sealed with Cabot ATO – I have restained a couple of times since then with different product. In all areas where the deck receive little to no sun, the original ATO still look decent but needs recoating. Can I use your product on top of the ATO or should I completely strip and start over. Looking for direction.
You will need to fully remove the prior coatings first.
We have a an IPE deck and we have used Cabot Timber Oil in the past. We are looking for an oil that it closest in color to the honey teak of Cabot. What would you suggest? Also, will this oil last longer / penetrate deeper than Cabot?
Amber would be closest. Your wood type (IPE) requires annual application due to the extreme density of the wood. Nothing will last longer
We just built a rough cut pine barn we are up in the air on what type of stain to use solid or transparent and would we need 2 applications
Two coats applied wet on wet. Any color that you like will work.
We have a 7 year old tigerwood deck that we are refinishing and we live in Colorado. Should we use the Semi-transparent stain? We like the look of the wood when it is wet so is Amber a good choice?
You will need one of the hardwood colors:https://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/wood-and-decking-stains/hardwood-and-ipe-stain
Amber is closest to a wet look.
I have replaced all my deck boards and rails using treated lumber (pine) throughout the past few months.I ordered a few samples and I like the Oxford Brown stain.Now I am ready to stain my deck. How many coats of stain should I plan on putting on my deck for this initial staining?
See here about new wood: https://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/new-decking-and-armstrong-clark-stain
Our painter stained our cedar fence with semi transparent natural oak and it is beautiful. However, some of the stain dripped onto the concrete pavers in the courtyard leaving large oil stains. What method and/or product works best to remove them? Thanks!
Use a graffiti remover cleaner and pressure washing.
I have a 20 plus year cedar deck and I used the Cabot cleaner and brightener on it. I have decided not to use their product to stain it. I would like a rich cedar/oak color without it being too brown or orange. I also don’t want it too light or too dark. What color and type of stain do you suggest would be best on it. I would like something that would last longer and was trending toward the semi-transparent but was unsure of the amber color on cedar and if it was a semi-transparent stain. The Natural looked too light and so did some of the cedar. I’m not sure if there is a difference between the cedar transparent and semi-transparent cedar. Since I won’t be staining immediately as I’m trying to figure out the color would I need to re-apply brightener or cleaner before staining.
Best to get samples to see how it looks on your wood as all will vary based on the wood and the age of the wood.
Do you have any suggestions of which sample color I should order?
Try Natural Oak, Rustic Brown, Amber, etc.