Best Stain for Pine Floors 2024 | Top 8 Model Reviewed

Pine is softer than maple or oak hardwood flooring, Thus, it’s more likely to get dented faster. This makes it harder to keep the wood looking nice and new.

Whether you’re trying to protect your investment or simply want to keep your soft wood looking good, you need a good stain. Applying a usual stain may end up looking too dark or even muddy. Using the best stain for pine floors can help you get the right look while protecting your floors from damage.

Probably, you have some doubts about finding the most suitable stain for your wooden surfaces. We created a list of the top 8 wood stains for pine floors.

Best Stain for Pine Floors for The Money

Pine is softwood, so it’s easy to scratch and dent. You need to be extra careful when choosing a stain for your wooden floors. A wrong choice can result in an unattractive finish or damage your floors. Here are our top 8 picks for the stain for a pine floor:

01. HOWARD Pine Wood Finish

If you have wood furniture that’s seen better days, Howard Restor-A-Finish can help. This liquid wood stain comes in 9 colors, including maple and pine, and can be used to restore the color and sheen to your furniture.

Key Features:

• Restores the color and sheen to wood furniture
• Comes in 9 colors, including maple and pine
• Removes water marks, white heat rings, and more
• Gives wood a beautiful light brown finish

It’s easy to apply and dries quickly, so you can get your furniture looking like new quickly. Plus, it’s affordable, so you can keep your hardwood floors looking great without breaking the bank. It comes in 16 oz. Cans, so you’ll have plenty of coverage.

When you’re looking to give your wood furniture a new lease on life, then look no further than this wood stain. Using this unique finish-penetrating formula, you can not only restore the original and natural appearance but also blend out any minor scratches, abrasions, or blemishes.

The Howard Pine Wood Finish is a quick and easy way to restore most finished wood surfaces. It removes water marks and white heat rings, oxidation, smoke damage, sun fade, and most other blemishes. This process involves wiping on and wiping off. It takes only a few minutes to complete.

Howard’s Restor-A-Finish is a wood stain that recovers the finish of the wood without eliminating any of the existing finish. This can be a great alternative to stripping the wood if you are not happy with the finish that is currently on it.

It gives your wood a beautiful light brown finish that will last for a long time. Use it to restore luster to faded finishes.

Pros:

• Easy to apply
• Dries quickly
• Eliminates sun fade
• Removes smoke damage
• Blends out minor scratches

Cons:

• More stain for better results

Verdict:

When it comes to refurbishing old pieces of furniture, Howard’s Pine Wood Finish is one of the most popular and trusted products on the market. It is also an affordable option compared to completely stripping and refinishing the wood.

02. Varathane Penetrating Wood Stain

This wood stain is perfect if you’re looking for a weathered gray color. It dries quickly and is easy to apply, making it a great option if you’re in a hurry.

Key Features:

• Oil based finish that dries quickly
• High performance stain system with nano pigment particles
• Does not require wood conditioners prior to use
• Penetrates deep into the pores of the wood
• Application temperature is between 60 – 90 degree Fahrenheit

Varathane Penetrating Wood Stain is an oil based finish that dries quickly and provides one coat coverage. It’s ideal for DIY projects up to 275 square feet and can be touched up in just 1 hour.

Pine wood stain is the perfect choice for any furniture, cabinet, door, trim, or paneling project. This wood stain is available in 26 trendy colors that will help you achieve the perfect look for your project.

It is a high performance stain system that has been enhanced with nano pigment particles. These particles help to bring out the wood grain detail and reveal the wood’s beauty.

Unlike other pine stains, this product does not require wood conditioners before applying. It penetrates deep into the pores of the wood, providing durable color and protection.

The purpose of a penetrating wood stain is to deeply soak into the wood surface and bring out the natural beauty and color of the grain. It can be used on a variety of wood surfaces, both inside and outside, and is perfect for restoring old furniture or giving new life to a deck or porch.

When the temperature is 60 – 90 degrees Fahrenheit, the stain should be applied with a clean cloth or brush. It is important to shake or stir the stain before and during use to ensure an even application.

You should not dilute the stain with water. Its wood stain will get darker the longer it penetrates. It should be allowed to sit for 24 hours for full cure.

Pros:

• Suitable in normal temparature
• Available in 26 trendy colors
• Cure time 24 hours
• Covers up to 275 sq. ft.

Cons:

• Sand to do wiping off

Verdict:

Overall, the penetrating formula ensures a deep, rich color that will last. It is easy to apply and dries quickly, so you can get started on your project right away.

03. Ready Seal Golden Pine On Pine

If you’re looking for a durable stain and sealer, Ready Seal is a great option. This particular product comes in the color Golden Pine, which will give your wood a rich and luxurious look.

Key Features:

• Comes with an oil-based sealer
• Increases the natural beauty of wood
• Protects from water, UV damage, mold, and mildew
• Can be applied in any temperature range

Ready Seal Golden Pine is an easy to use sealant that does not require primer. It is darkest when first applied but will reach its true color in approximately 14 days. You should not apply it over painted or newly stained surfaces, as sealed wood surfaces may inhibit penetration.

It applies easily with a roller, brush, or sprayer and does not require back brushing. You’ll never have to worry about streaks or laps with this sealant. The Ready Seal Golden Pine On Pine will protect and enhance the natural beauty of your wood, while also repelling water, mold, mildew, and UV damage.

You can use the Ready Seal exterior stain in any temperature range, so it’s versatile. It is an oil-based finish that increases the natural beauty of the wood, allowing the texture and the wood grain detail to remain exposed.

This is a semi transparent stain and sealer in one and is perfect for all exterior wood projects. It comes in two different quantity sizes, including 5 and 1 gallon so that you can choose the best suits your needs.

Pros:

• Easy to use stains
• Doesn’t require any primer
• Semi transparent stain
• UV Rays Resistant

Cons:

• True color takes 14 days to reach
• Can’t apply newly stained surfaces

Verdict:

Ready Seal Golden Pine is an excellent choice for anyone looking to seal their porous wood. It is designed to protect the wood from the elements and keep it looking beautiful.

04. STORM SYSTEM Stain for Pine Wood

If you’re looking for an easy way to apply a stain to your pine wood, then the wood stain by STORM SYSTEM is the perfect product for you. It applies easily with a  spray, foam brush, or roller applicator.

You can use this sealer and stain protector on decks, fences, and other wood surfaces outside. It protects against harsh weather conditions, and it also restores the natural color and beauty of the wood.

Key Features:

• Protects against water damage, fading, and staining
• Restores the natural color and beauty of the wood
• Available in a variety of colors to suit your needs
• Applies easily with a spray, brush, or roller applicator

This is a semi transparent sealer that will help protect your wood deck from the elements. It is a true oil-based product, which will help to maintain the natural elegance of the wood grain.

One of the unique features of the stain is that it dries lap-free, which means you won’t have to worry about any of the stain getting on your clothes or skin. In addition, the STORM SYSTEM stain for pine wood provides UV protection, so your wood will stay looking beautiful for a long time.

You can apply it to any wood species. The wood stain is great for staining Cedar fence, Pine, Mahogany, Redwood, CyressDouglas Fir, Spruce Stain, and Pressure Treated. It is available in a variety of colors to suit your needs, but this one comes in Hickory color.

Pros:

• True oil-based product
• Dries lap-free
• UV protection
• Semi transparent sealer

Cons:

• Takes time to clear slippery feeling

Verdict:

So if you’re looking for a high-quality, easy-to-apply pine wood stain, then STORM SYSTEM Stain for Pine Wood is a perfect choice. It offers great protection against the elements while also restoring the genuine color of the wood.

05. Rubio Monocoat Oil Based Wood Finish

If you want beautiful, natural tones in pine wood, the wood stain by Rubio Monocoat may be the perfect product for you.

Key Features:

• Does not contain any water or solvents
• Resists water and heat to save you time
• Durable and resistant to water and heat
• Environmentally friendly finish without any harmful chemicals

It is oil based and does not contain any water or solvents. As a result, it is a good option if you are looking for an environmentally friendly alternative.

The finish does not contain any harmful chemicals (0% VOC), so it is a good choice for those who are looking for a healthy option. Rubio Monocoat Oil Based Wood Finish is a unique finish that provides a durable, one-coat finish.

It is a unique wood stain that uses advanced molecular bonding to protect the wood from daily wear and tear. This pine wood stain resists water and heat, making it ideal for areas like kitchens and bathrooms where there is a lot of moisture in the air.

Moreover, it is the ideal finish for hardwood flooring, oak tables, and essentially all other wood surfaces. It cures 80% of the finish in two days. The finish is 100% cured in seven days or less.

Pros:

• Oil based stain
• One-coat finish
• VOC free
• Heat and water resistant

Cons:

• 7 days to full cure

Verdict:

The wood stain is a great choice for those looking for an environmentally friendly, durable, and natural wood finish. It provides a beautiful, natural look to wood surfaces.

06. Rust-Oleum Wood Stain

If you want to stain pine wood, there’s nothing better than Varathane. The Wood Accelerator by Rust-Oleum is a great product to use if you want to give your pine wood a weathered look.

Key Features:

• Can cover up to 275 square feet
• Touchable the wood surface in one hour
• Gives wood a beautiful, aged gray look
• Reacts with the wood, imitating what happens in nature over time

Rust-Oleum Wood Stain comes in a grey color, and it helps the wood to age faster so that you can achieve the desired look in a shorter amount of time. It can be used to create a weathered look on untreated or bare wood for interior use.

Since it has a mild odor, it is perfect for those who are sensitive to strong smells. The pine wood stain is a fast-drying, oil-based dye. It can cover up to 275 square feet depending on the porosity and wood type. You can touch up your interior wood projects in as little as one hour.

It is a great way to give your interior wood furniture or décor an aged look in minutes. The final look of the wood surface will depend on the type of wood used. But this product is a great way to give new life to old pieces of furniture or add a unique touch to your décor.

It is a one-of-a-kind product that gives your wood a beautiful, aged gray look. The unique formula reacts with the wood, imitating what happens in nature over time.

Before applying, be sure to remove any existing finishes with a liquid stripper or sandpaper. It is a water-based formula that is easy to clean up with soap and water.

Pros:

• Water-based formula
• Easy to clean up
• Fast-drying
• Provides an aged gray look

Cons:

• Need to remove any existing finishes
• Not all woods produce desired colors

Verdict:

Rust-Oleum Wood Stain is a great way to achieve a weathered look on your pine wood furniture or décor. The fast-drying formula allows you to touch up your projects quickly. It is an affordable option for anyone on a budget.

07. Defy Extreme Wood Stain

If you’re looking for a wood stain that will provide extreme protection, this wood stain by Defy is the perfect option. It is a 1-gallon container.

Key Features:

• Semi-transparent wood stain 
• Extreme protection against UV rays, graying, and color loss
• Fortified with zinc nano-particles
• 100% VOC compliant wood stain

This stain is water-based, and perfect for staining wood decks, outdoor patio furniture, siding, playsets, fences, and more. It is a beautiful, semi-transparent wood stain that will allow the wood grain to show through. 

With a natural matte finish, this is a great way to protect your wood without hiding its natural beauty. One of the best features of this wood stain is that it’s environmentally friendly. So you can feel good about using it, knowing that it’s not harming the environment.

Defy Extreme Wood Stain is a great product because it is fortified with zinc nano-particles. This means that the wood will be protected from UV rays, which can cause premature graying and color loss.

Using the highest quality resins, the pine wood stains are durable. The result is a quality semi-transparent deck stain that typically lasts a season or two longer than other pine stains. Unlike other wood stains, wood stains resist more fading and darkening, making them a better option for your next project.

It is a 100% VOC compliant product that comes in the natural pine color.  It is easy to maintain. When it’s time to apply a maintenance coat, it doesn’t need to be sanded or stripped. You need to brighten the wood before applying a single maintenance coat.

Pros:

• Environmentally friendly
• Matte finish
• Water based stain
• Shows wood grain

Cons:

• Pre-brightening is required

Verdict:

This product is designed to seal and protect your wood from moisture and UV damage and provide a beautiful finish. We would definitely recommend this product to anyone who wants to protect their wood furniture or deck.

08. Minwax Stain on Pine

Are you looking to stain pine wood and add a touch of rustic charm to your home décor? If so, consider using pine wood stain by Minwax.

Key Features:

• Durable oil-based wood stain
• Deeply penetrates wood pores in 5 minutes
• Resists lapping and dries in 2 hours
• Great for interior wooden staining projects

This oil-based wood stain will give your pine furniture or floors a beautiful, natural finish that will look great in any room. It comes in 1/2-pint cans, so you can easily purchase the amount you need for your wood project.

Minwax penetrating wood stain is a great choice for interior wood staining projects. The rich, even color boosts the natural wood grain in just one coat. It’s perfect for furniture, doors, cabinets, and hardwood floors.

This is a unique product that is designed for staining interior wood. It features a quick-drying formula that allows it to deeply penetrate wood pores within five minutes of application. Moreover, it resists lapping and dries in 2 hours. This makes staining all your wood projects quick, beautiful, and easy.

Minwax Stain on Pine is easy to apply. You can use a foam brush or clean cloth to apply it in the direction of the grain. It is recommended to leave it for 5-15 minutes to wipe away any excess stain.

You will get darker or richer the color the longer you wait. Also, you may need to apply coats for a deeper color. It is a beautiful natural wood stain that provides a light pine color. This color looks great on a variety of projects, thanks to its white undertones and light beige.

Pros:

• Provides light pine color
• Resists lapping
• Deeply penetrates wood pores
• Quick drying

Cons:

• Multiple coats for a deeper color

Verdict:

The Minwax penetrating wood stain is perfect for any wood surface that needs a new look, and it dries quickly so you can get back to your project. For best results, be sure to follow the directions on the can and test the stain in an inconspicuous area before beginning your project.

Finally, we have ended our list of the best stains for pine floors that are not only great for a pine floor but also suitable for a wide range of wood surfaces. With these wood stains, you can achieve the look you desire on your pine wood surface while also protecting them from damage. Consider using one of these products for your next wood staining project.

Factors to Consider When Buying The Stain for Pine Floors

When choosing a stain for your pine floor, there are a few factors you’ll want to keep in mind. The quantity, type of stain, color, drying time, and more you want are all important considerations.

Here, we’ll discuss each of these factors in more detail and provide some tips on how to choose the right stain for your pine floors.

Quantity:

The first thing you’ll want to consider is how much stain you need and what kind of coverage you’re looking for. Depending on the size of your project, you may need a quart or even a gallon of stain. The best stain for pine wood will have great coverage.

Type of Stain:

The type of stain you choose will also be an important consideration. There are 7 main types of wood stains

• Water-Based stain
• Oil-Based stain
• Varnish Stain
• Lacquer Stain
• Gel Stain
• Water-Soluble Dye Stain
• Metal-Complex Dye Stain

Oil-based stains are typically more durable and provide better coverage. Water-based stains are easier to apply and clean up but don’t last as long.

Varnish stain is very durable but can be difficult to apply. Gel stain is easy to use but doesn’t provide as much coverage. Water-soluble dye stains are great for coloring wood without changing the grain pattern. Metal-complex dye stains are very durable and provide rich, even color.

Stain Colors:

The color of the wood stain is also an important consideration. You’ll want to choose a color that compliments the wood grain and gives you the look you’re going for. You should be able to find the best dark stain for pine floors or the best light stain for pine floors based on the color you’re looking for.

Drying and Cure Time:

The drying and cure time of the stain is also important to consider. You’ll want to choose the best wood dye for pine that dries quickly so you can get back to your project. The cure time is the amount of time the stain takes to harden and be fully dried.

Scratch Resistant:

Another consideration is whether you want a chip resistant finish or not. The best stain for pine wood with a scratch resistant finish can help protect your floors from damage.

WaterProof:

If you’re looking for the best stain for pine table and floor, you’ll want to choose one that’s waterproof. This will help protect your floors from moisture and prevent any damage. If you do get a water stain, you’ll be able to clean it up quickly and easily.

UV Rays Resistant:

Another consideration is whether you want a UV rays resistant finish or not. The best stain for pine furniture and floor with a UV rays resistant finish can help protect your floors from the sun’s harmful rays. This will help keep your floors looking new for longer.

Sanding or Non Sanding:

Although it’s not so important, you may want to consider whether you want a sanding or non sanding finish. The best stain for pine wood with a sanding finish can help create a smooth surface. If you choose a non sanding finish, you won’t have to worry about sanding before applying the stain.

Coats:

The number of coats you need will also depend on the type of stain you choose and the coverage you’re looking for. You may need only one coat or up to four coats, depending on the product.

VOC Compliant:

When looking for the top wood stain for wooden floors, it’s important also to consider whether the product is VOC compliant.

VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compounds and are chemicals that can be harmful to your health. The best wood stain for pine floors will have low or no VOCs, so you can rest assured knowing you’re safe.

Odor:

You’ll also want to consider the odor of the stain. The best wood dye for pine with a mild or no odor will help keep your project smelling fresh. Avoid using intensive odors that can be overwhelming.

Versatile:

The best stain for pine decks is versatile and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, and concrete. Use this to get the most out of your stain and be able to use it on a number of different interior wood projects. You can also use it on different types of wood, including pine, oak, mahogany, and cherry.

Easy to Apply:

A wood stain for pine wood floors can be applied with a brush, roller, or sprayer. You’ll want to choose the method that gives you the best coverage and results.

Easy to Clean:

With the best wood stain for pine surfaces, you’ll want something that’s easy to clean up. Water-based stains are typically the easiest to clean, while oil-based stains can be more difficult. Choose a product that’s easy to apply and clean up so you can get back to your project quickly.

Brand:

When looking for the best wood dye for pine surfaces, it’s important to consider the brand. You’ll want to choose a reputable brand that’s known for quality products.

Price:

When looking for the best stain for pine wood ground, price is also an important consideration. A good quality product doesn’t have to be cheaper. Compare the prices of various stains according to their features and find the best one that fits your needs.

How do You Stain a Pine Floor?

Pine floors are a beautiful addition to any home, but they can be difficult to stain. If you’re not careful, you can end up with streaks or uneven surfaces, or color. Here are a few tips to help you get the perfect finish on your pine floor:

Equipment and Materials:

• Sandpaper
• Stain
• Paintbrush or Rag
• Gloves
• Tack cloth
• Pre-stain wood conditioner

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 01. Sand The Wood:

The first step is to sand the wood. You’ll need to use a coarse grit sandpaper to remove the old finish and smooth out the surface. Be sure to sand in the direction of the grain to avoid damaging the wood.

Step 02. Clean The Surface:

Once you’ve sanded the floor, you’ll need to clean up the dust. Use a vacuum or damp cloth to remove all the particles from the surface.

Step 03. Condition The Wood:

After you’ve cleaned the wood, you’ll need to condition it. This will help the stain absorb evenly and prevent blotching. Apply a pre-stain wood conditioner with a brush or rag and let it sit for at least 15 minutes before proceeding to the next step.

Step 04. Apply The Thin Coat

Now you’re ready to apply the stain. Use a paintbrush or rag to apply a thin, even coat of stain to the floor. Be sure to work in small sections and avoid applying too much stain.

Step 05. Sanding:

After the first coat of stain has dried, you’ll need to give it a light sanding. This will help smooth out the surface and remove any excess stain. Use a fine grit sandpaper and sand in the direction of the grain.

Step 06. Apply the Final Coat:

Apply the top coat of stain and let it dry completely. This will give you the perfect finish on your pine floor. Once the final coat of stain has dried, you’ll need to remove any excess with a clean rag. Wipe in the direction of the grain to avoid damaging the wood.

Step 07. Cure The Wood:

Leave the floor to cure for at least 24 hours before walking on it. This will allow the stain to set and dry completely. We recommend following the manufacturer’s instructions on curing the wood.

The stained pine has been finished. These are the steps you need to follow to get the perfect finish on your pine floor. With a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll be able to achieve a beautiful result.

Special Notes:

• Try to apply the stain in well-ventilated area.
• Wear gloves to avoid staining your hands.
• Ensure you overlap brush strokes before your previous section dries.

FAQs:

There are a few questions that we get asked frequently about staining pine floors. Here are a few of the most common questions:

Q: Can Pine Flooring be Stained?

Yes, pine flooring can be stained. You need to use wood stain and follow the steps we have mentioned in this article.

Q: What Dark Stain Looks Good on Pine?

Varathane Wood Stain in Dark Walnut is a good option for dark pine floors. It has a rich, chocolate brown color that will give your floor a beautiful finish.

Q: How to Treat Pine for Outdoor Use?

You can try using a penetrating wood stain to treat pine for outdoor use. This will help protect the wood from the elements and keep it looking beautiful for years to come.

Q: How Many Coats of Stain on Pine?

We recommend applying at least 2 coats of stain to get the best results. You may need to apply more coats, depending on the color and condition of the wood.

Q: Do You Have to Sand Unfinished Wood Before Staining?

Yes, you need to sand unfinished wood before staining. This will help the stain absorb evenly and give you a smooth finish.

Q: How Deep Does Wood Stain Penetrate?

Wood stain will penetrate about 1/4 inch into the wood. This is enough to give your floor a beautiful finish, but not so deep that it will damage the wood.

Q: How to Stain Pine Dark Brown?

To stain pine dark brown, you can use a wood stain in the color of your choice. We recommend using pre-stain wood conditioner to help the stain absorb evenly and reduce botching.

Conclusion:

Staining pine floors in your home will increase its value and give it a beautiful finish. You need to use the best stain for pine floors to get the desired results. Follow the steps we have mentioned in this article to achieve a beautiful finish on your floor.

We recommend you choose one of the top 8 wood floor stains for pine floors from the list. These are the top wood stains according to features and reliability.

You can also check out the wood floor stain buying guide to help you make a better decision. With the right stain and some patience, you’ll be able to achieve the perfect finish on your pine floor. We hope you have found this article helpful.