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Trusted by woodworkers and DIYers alike, Varathane is a leading brand in wood stains, finishes, and restoration products, offering professional-grade results with easy-to-use formulas. Available at Windsor Plywood, Varathane products are perfect for enhancing, protecting, and preserving wood surfaces—whether you're working on furniture, floors, cabinetry, or craft projects. Known for its rich colour payoff, fast drying times, and durable finishes, Varathane’s lineup includes oil-based and water-based wood stains, polyurethane topcoats, wood conditioners, and touch-up solutions. Their Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain is especially popular for delivering beautiful colour in a single coat, while their clear finishes offer long-lasting protection against wear, water, and UV damage. As a proudly Canadian retailer, Windsor Plywood offers a wide range of Varathane products backed by expert advice and personalized service. Whether you're refinishing a vintage table or adding the final touch to a new build, Varathane helps you achieve a flawless, professional-looking finish.
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.