Find Your Store
Enhance the natural beauty of wood with high-quality stains. Whether you're finishing a hardwood floor, refinishing furniture, or adding rich colour to trim, cabinetry, or exterior woodwork, we offer a wide selection of oil- and water-based stains to suit your project. Available in a variety of tones—from clear and natural finishes to deep, bold hues—our stains are designed to bring out the grain while offering long-lasting protection. Perfect for both interior and exterior applications, our stain products are trusted by professionals and DIYers alike for their ease of application, durability, and beautiful results. As a proudly Canadian company with locally owned stores, Windsor Plywood specializes in hard-to-find wood finishing solutions and provides expert, one-on-one advice to help you achieve the perfect finish. Visit your local store to explore our full range of stains and bring warmth and character to your next project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Varathane products does Windsor Plywood carry?
Windsor Plywood carries Varathane wood stains, polyurethane floor finishes, furniture finishes, and wood conditioners. Varathane is a widely used brand for interior wood finishing covering hardwood floors, furniture, cabinets, and trim. Both oil-based and water-based formulations are available in a range of sheens from matte to gloss.
What is the difference between Varathane oil-based and water-based polyurethane?
Varathane oil-based polyurethane is more durable and self-levelling but dries slowly, adds an amber tone to the wood, and requires mineral spirits for cleanup. Water-based polyurethane dries faster, has lower odour, remains clear without the amber cast, and cleans up with water. For floors, oil-based is the traditional choice for durability. For light wood species, water-based maintains clarity.
How many coats of Varathane polyurethane should I apply to hardwood floors?
For hardwood floors, apply three coats: two build coats and one finish coat. Lightly sand between each coat with 220-grit or a fine abrasive pad to improve adhesion and remove dust nibs. Allow full dry time between coats as specified on the product label.
Do I need to use Varathane wood conditioner before staining?
Pre-stain wood conditioner is recommended for blotch-prone species including pine, alder, birch, and cherry. These species have irregular grain density that causes stain to absorb unevenly, resulting in blotchy colour. Applying Varathane wood conditioner before staining promotes more even stain absorption.
Can Varathane products be used on exterior wood?
Varathane interior finishes are not rated for exterior use and will fail rapidly under UV exposure and moisture cycling. Varathane does offer specific exterior products for outdoor wood applications. Always check the product label to confirm the interior or exterior rating before applying.