Installation Guide

wood and previous existing finishes. Two coats are required. The first coat will
absorb bleed-through which can cause a slight color change to gray, and the
second coat will seal the bleed-through.
Stain Blocker Application Steps
1. Stir paint to reincorporate solids that have settled to the bottom of the
can before and throughout the application process.
2. Thinning: Do not thin.
3. Apply 2 coats of Stain Blocker under all light paints.
• Hand application: Apply using a synthetic bristle brush, foam
brush, paint pad applicator or roller.
• Spray application: Before spraying, strain paint through a
medium-mesh filter. Spray wet films at 3-5-mil thickness. HVLP:
1.8mm-2.0mm spray tip, medium air cap. Verify tip sizes with
your equipment supplier. See our general guide for spray tip
sizes. Keep your gun at a 90° angle, 6-8" from the surface. On
large, flat areas, use wet, even patterns 6-8" wide. For narrow
surfaces, reduce the fan pattern to 2-3" wide to reduce
overspray. Overlap each pass 25% to conceal lines. Wear a full
filter (NIOSH/MSHA approved) respiratory & eye protection and
work in a ventilated space. Visit this FAQ for more information on
spraying techniques.
• Face frames on cabinets: Stain Blocker can be applied
successfully to cabinet face frames, edges or drawers with a
brush, pad or small cabinet-specific roller such as Whizz or
AllPro brand.
4. Dry 2+ hours between coats and before topcoat in ideal conditions:
70°F/20°C; 50-70% humidity. Be sure to allow adequate dry
time. You can tell if a water-based finish is dry if it forms a powder
when lightly sanded with a fine-grade (220-320) foam sanding pad. If in
doubt, wait longer. Rushing dry time can cause clouding/blush in
topcoat due to moisture trapped between coats. Increase dry time if:
• Humidity is over 80%
• Thick coats are applied
• Applying over a previously existing finish
• Applying over products from other brands
• Layering General Finishes water- and oil-based products:
• Water over oil: Let oil-based products dry 72+hrs before
applying water-based products