
How to Stain Exterior Vertical Timber with AQUAMAX:
Giving your exterior timber a fresh, new look is easier than you might think. Whether you’re staining fences, pergolas, gates, or beams, AQUAMAX Timber Stain delivers long-lasting colour and protection. Here’s everything you need to know to achieve the best results.
Why Choose AQUAMAX Timber Stain?
AQUAMAX Timber Stain is a water-based, linseed oil-penetrating stain designed for exterior timber. Unlike decking oils, which enhance the natural timber grain, stains contain more pigment, making them ideal for changing or revitalising the colour of your timber.
What You’ll Need
AQUAMAX Timber Stain (Available in a range of colours)
MASTERMAX PREPMAX (for surface preparation)
Brush, roller, or airless sprayer
Sander (if required)
Preparation is Key
To achieve an even, long-lasting finish, proper preparation is essential:
Clean the Timber: Ensure the surface is free from dirt, mould, and moss. Use PREPMAX Timber Clean & Prep or a mild bleach solution, leaving it for at least two weeks before scrubbing or lightly water blasting. PREPMAX helps open the timber fibres for better stain penetration and removes contaminants like dirt, grease, and mildew.
Alternatively, GET GONE is a highly effective 2-in-1 fungicidal treatment and cleaner. It treats and cleans timber, removing mould, moss, and algae to ensure the surface is well-prepared for staining. Simply apply GET GONE using the included hose-end applicator, scrub the surface to ensure a deep clean, and rinse thoroughly. Let the timber dry before staining. GET GONE works well for general surface cleaning but is ideal when you need a quick and easy treatment before staining.
Sand if Needed: If the timber is rough, previously coated, or has a shiny mill glaze, lightly sand it to improve stain absorption.
Test the Absorption: AQUAMAX works best on absorbent surfaces like rough-sawn, dressed, or weathered softwood. If unsure, apply a test patch.
How to Use MASTERMAX PREPMAX:

For best results before staining with AQUAMAX:
Mix PREPMAX: Combine 1 part PREPMAX with 4 parts water.
Apply to Timber: Use a stiff bristle broom/brush and scrub thoroughly to foam up the solution.
Let it Work: Leave the mixture on the surface for 15 minutes, keeping it wet if necessary.
Rinse Off: Wash thoroughly with low to medium pressure and let the timber dry before staining.
How to Apply AQUAMAX Timber Stain
Stir Thoroughly: Use a flat stirrer and mix from bottom to top to ensure an even colour.
Apply Evenly: Use a brush, roller, or airless sprayer. Work along the timber grain and coat all exposed edges and ends.
Allow to Dry: AQUAMAX is touch-dry in about 90 minutes, with full curing over several days. Apply a second coat for deeper colour and added protection.
Maintenance & Clean-Up
AQUAMAX offers excellent durability, but over time, reapplication may be needed to maintain colour intensity. Clean brushes and tools with cold water, followed by warm, soapy water to remove any linseed oil residue.
Get Started Today!
AQUAMAX Timber Stain is available in a variety of colours and sizes, including test pots, so you can find the perfect match for your project. Transform your exterior timber with a high-performance, easy-to-use stain that delivers lasting results.
Ready to get started?
Happy staining!
