Railing and Balusters

Larkin Painting Company

Challenging workspace

We recently painted a beautiful, wooden railing and baluster system.  Even though we were using the same product for the railing that floor contractors used for the floor, we ran into a challenge.  The floor and the railing were constructed of two different types of wood.  Railings are made of a very hard wood that has a tighter grain than floor wood.  Tightly grained wood slows the penetration of the stain and requires more coats to darken.

railing baluster unstained by Larkin Painting Company

Look at the detail.

After applying three coats, we suggested trying a couple more to see if the floor color could be also be achieved on the railing.  We were successful!  The railing was now a rich walnut color that blended well with the floor.

Next we primed the balusters and sanded them down again.  The primer coat raises the grain of the wood.  Sanding “pushes” the wood grain down, making the surface smooth and soft.  We sanded the railing and then we were ready for a final clean-up of dust.  That final cleaning, which includes wiping the surface with a tack cloth to remove traces of dust particles, prepared us for the clear coats of polyurethane and the finish coats of semi-gloss.
stain baluster railing by Larking Painting Company

Great contrast.

This type of work is very rewarding and we enjoy the challenges.  A great result on a project like this never happens by accident.  We must sand thoroughly and control the dust fastidiously to create a look and feel that is smooth and uncontaminated.  We must apply the final products with skill and care to ensure even leveling and a consistent sheen.  A railing system is often a focal point and a statement in an entryway of a home.  Our attention to detail and craftsmanship showcased the contrast between the dark shiny railing and the white trim and made this structure the gem of our customer’s space.
Be well,
Bill

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