How to Stain a Beadboard

While beadboard, another name for wainscoting, is most often installed on the lower half of walls to create a decorative look, it can also be installed over entire walls or a ceiling as well. Although beadboard can be stained after it’s been applied to a wall, it is easier to stain the paneling before installing it.

1. Move the beadboard outdoors or into a garage. Lay a plastic tarp flat on the ground and place the beadboard on top of it. If the beadboard is already installed on a wall, remove the bottom molding with a crowbar, then lay the plastic tarp on the floor under the beadboard.

2. Sand out any scratches or dents in the beadboard using fine-grit sandpaper, such as 200 grit. Sand only in the direction of the wood, which in the case of beadboard is up and down. Wipe down the entire surface with a towel to remove any dust.

3. Apply a thin coat of oil-based wood conditioner to the entire surface of the beadboard using a paintbrush. Wood conditioner seals the beadboard, which makes the final stain appear smoother and more uniform. Allow the wood conditioner to dry completely before proceeding.

4. Open the can of oil-based stain and stir it well with a paint stirrer to mix the pigments.

5. Apply the stain to the beadboard using a natural-bristle brush. Move the brush up and down in the direction of the wood grain.

6. Wipe the entire surface of the beadboard lightly with a clean rag to remove excess stain. Do not press down on the rag; simply drag it lightly across the wood surface.

7. Allow the stain to dry completely and apply a second coat if a darker stain finish is desired.