Transformation FAQs

Are water-based products bad?

If by “bad” you mean poor performing, no. Some water-based stains (like our Capture Log Stain / Cascade, Transformationg Siding & Trim, and Transformation Deck & Fence) will perform very well if good surface preparation is done and if they are applied in appropriate weather. On the other hand, it is also true that solvent-based stains (oil-based stains) are more forgiving when less-than-excellent surface preparation is done and when the weather is not as ideal.
Can I get Transformation in California and other VOC states?

YES! All Sashco stains can be shipped to California and other VOC states. There is one are in California to which our stains can’t be shipped, and that’s the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD).

Read here for more information about VOCs.
Can I get Transformation shipped to me overnight?

Transformation Siding & Trim and Transformation Deck & Fence are both water-based products, so they can be shipped overnight or 2nd Day. Transformation Log & Timber cannot be shipped on any plane due to shipping regulations. It can only be shipped via ground or ship.
Can I put Sashco’s Capture / Cascade over any of the Transformation stains?

No. For maintenance, it’s best to use more of the same kind of stain, or Cascade over Capture. If and when you have to strip the home back down to bare wood in the future, you can choose to switch to another of our stains at that time.
Can I put Transformation Siding & Trim over Capture Log Stain / Cascade?

For maintenance, it would be best to use more Capture Log Stain and Cascade (or just Cascade, if the Caputre is still in good shape). If and when you need to completely strip the home down to bare wood, you can certainly choose at that time to switch to one of our other stain products.
Can I stain over another brand of stain?

The best advice is to call both stain manufacturers and inquire about compatibility.

In general, our products can be used in conjunction with other water-based stains and drying-oil based stains. However, if the stain contains non-drying oils and the stain was applied in the last 18 months, our stains will not be compatible. If the non-drying oil-based stain has been on there for 18 months or longer, you can probably apply Transformation over it. Call Sashco at 1-800-767-5656 for more specific details on your particular situation.

Of course, no matter what you’re doing, you’ll want to make sure that you’re applying the stain over a sound surface free of any dirt, debris, unsound or loose wood fibers, etc.
Can I throw out my rags used to clean up Transformation Log & Timber?

NO! Any rag, drop cloth, or article of clothing that has wet Transformation Log & Timber on it must be laid out flat (NOT balled up) to thoroughly dry before being disposed of. This is because Transformation contains linseed oil and may spontaneously combust if you ball up the rags before the oil dries. This is true of any product containing linseed oil or other oils.

Alternatively you can submerge such oil-laden items in a container full of water, and then dispose of the items according to local regulations. Such oil-soaked items should never be kept near any buildings, vehicles, or other valuable structures that could suffer damage if spontaneous combustion should occur.

Also, don’t smoke or use fire while working with Transformation – be careful out there!
Can I use Transformation Deck & Fence inside my home?

For interior applications, it’s best to stick with our Transformation Siding & Trim stain or Sashco’s Capture. And, of course, be sure you top coat whatever stain you use with our Symphony clear coat to give it an even sheen, along with a hardy, easy-to-clean surface.
Can I use Transformation Deck & Fence on my wood siding, like on my shed, or on my log home?

It is best to use Transformation Deck & Fence for its intended use – on decks and fences. For siding, use Transformation Siding & Trim. On log and timber frame structures, use Transformation Log & Timber or Sashco’s Capture/Cascade water-based staining system. Each product will achieve optimal performance when used on its intended wood surface.
Can I use Transformation Deck & Fence on redwood? Pressure-treated wood? Cedar?

Transformation Deck & Fence is great for use on most any wood species. It may not penetrate properly (and therefore won’t perform properly) on some exotic hardwoods, such as Ipe or Mahogany. Be aware that the same color will look different on various wood species. Whatever the case, be sure to sample first! Follow the instructions in the Color Chart or Info Sheet for proper sampling instructions.
Can I use Transformation Log & Timber over top of Capture Log Stain?

If the Capture Log Stain is in good shape, meaning there are few, if any, areas of bare wood and little discoloration, it is best to stick with what you started with. If, down the line, you have to completely strip the stain and are down to bare wood, it would then be OK to switch to any of our other stain products.

It is not wise to use an oil-based over top of a water-based stain because most water-bases are much more elastic than oil-bases. As the wood moves and breathes, the oil-based stain will be more rigid than the water-based stain and may cause the water-based product to peel under the pressure of being pulled with normal movement.
Can I use Transformation on the interior of my home?

You can certainly use Transformation Siding & Trim on interior vertical wood surfaces. Do not use Transformation Log & Timber, or Transformation Deck & Fence on interior surfaces.
Can I use Transformation Siding & Trim on interior wood surfaces?

Yes, Transformation Siding & Trim can be used on any vertical wood surfaces inside your home. It must be top-coated with 1 to 2 coats of our Symphony interior clear coat in order to get an even sheen and a hardy, easy-to-clean surface.
Can I use Transformation Siding & Trim on my deck, fence, log home, etc?

It is best to use Transformation Siding & Trim for its intended use – on wood siding and trim. For decks and fences, use Transformation Deck & Fence. On log and timber frame structures, use Transformation Log & Timber or Sashco’s Capture/Cascade water-based staining system. Each product will achieve optimal performance when used on its intended wood surface.
Can I use Transformation Siding & Trim on redwood? Pine? Pressure-treated wood? Cedar?

Transformation Siding & Trim is great for use on most any wood species. It may not penetrate properly (and therefore won’t perform properly) on some exotic hardwoods, such as Ipe or Mahogany. Be aware that the same color will look different on various wood species. Whatever the case,be sure to sample first! Follow the instructions in the Color Chart or Info Sheet for proper sampling instructions.
Can I use Transformation Siding & Trim over an existing oil- based product?

It would be best to stick with an oil-based product if one has been used previously. Our Transformation Log & Timber has been specifically formulated for this very circumstance.
Do any of the Transformation stains require a top coat?

NO. Transformation Log & Timber, Siding & Trim and Deck & Fence do not require any top coat.
Do I have to stain my wood before applying Symphony?

No, you don’t absolutely have to. Many people enjoy the look of the natural wood. However, you should be aware that the underlying wood itself can shift in color over time and turn yellowish. (This is often times referred to as the “picture frame effect”.) If you don’t want to see this shift in color, it would be best to apply a light coat of a compatible stain (like Sashco’s Capture or Transformation Siding & Trim) prior to applying Symphony.
Do you have a deck stain?

Yes! Our Transformation Deck & Fence stain is made specifically for decks and fences.
How do I apply Transformation Deck & Fence?

Refer to the Full Infomation Sheet to learn about “A Better Way to Stain”, which includes details on proper application of Transformation Deck & Fence.
How do I apply Transformation Siding & Trim?

Refer to the Full Infomation Sheet to learn about “A Better Way to Stain”, which includes details on proper application of Transformation Siding & Trim.
How do I clean up Transformation Deck & Fence?

While still wet, soap and water will do the trick. Once dry, you’ll need to use citrus-based skin cleaners for anything on skin, and mineral spirits or paint thinner on any other surface.
How do I clean up Transformation Siding & Trim?

While still wet, soap and water will do the trick. Once dry, you’ll need to use citrus-based skin cleaners for anything on skin, and mineral spirits or paint thinner on any other surface.
How do I maintain my deck or fence with Transformation Deck & Fence stain?

Refer to the Full Information Sheet to learn about “A Better Way to Stain”, which includes details on routine maintenance of Transformation Deck & Fence. In most cases, it means cleaning the wood surface, allowing it to dry, and applying another coat of stain.
How does Transformation Log & Timber compare with all those other log home stains on the market?

There are many stains made specifically for log homes, but only a few of these are truly “high performing”. Often, lower quality log home stains will look beautiful right after application, but require frequent maintenance.

All of Sashco’s stains are formulated to look great after application, and to maintain this look for as long as possible. We use the highest quality raw materials to ensure this.

Transformation Log & Timber requires only 2 coats of the stain itself – sprayed on and back brushed in. This makes application less time consuming. And, Transformation is guaranteed to be compatible with all of Sashco’s other products.
How long does Transformation Deck & Fence last?

Transformation Deck & Fence will last approx. 1-2 years when one coat is applied according to directions. As a rule, deck stains should be reapplied every year or two. However, you can get greater longevity out of Transformation Deck & Fence by applying 2 coats up front and periodically cleaning the surfaces to get rid of dirt, pollen, leaves, etc. In addition, it’s a good idea to keep the deck free of sitting snow. Use a broom (if the snow isn’t very deep) or a plastic shovel (if the snow is too deep to remove with a broom) to avoid damaging the stain. Keep standing water off the wood and you will prolong the life of the stain.
How long will Transformation Siding & Trim last?

If applied according to directions and left as is with no maintenance, it will last at least 3-4 years. However, if you perform routine maintenance when needed, you can extend the life of the stain even further.
How many coats of Transformation Deck & Fence should I apply?

One coat is sufficient and will last about a year; however, you can apply a 2nd coat, which will increase the life of the stain an additional year or more.
How should I apply your stain to my siding?

It’s always best to drench apply the stain using a sprayer, then follow with vigorous back brushing. More importantly, work your way across 1-2 boards at a time and maintain a wet edge. Avoid stopping in the middle of a board. Refer to the Transformation Siding & Trim Full Information Sheet for more details.
I used High sierra in the past on the interior of my home. Now it’s Transformation Siding & Trim. So can I use Transformation Siding & Trim on the inside of my home now?

Yes, you can certainly use Transformation Siding & Trim on the interior of your home. Just be aware that the color choices have changed so you’ll want to do some sampling before wide-spread application. And, as before, be sure you top coat it with Sashco’s Symphony interior clear coat to get an even sheen, as well as a hardy, easy-to-clean surface.
I used High Sierra on my logs in the past, but now you’re saying it’s better for siding and trim and selling it as Transformation Siding & Trim. So what’s the scoop?

Transformation Siding & Trim (formerly High Sierra) is still a great stain for logs. It will perform just as well as it has in the past. Much like cars, technology improves over time. That is the case with stains for log homes. Since we first made High Sierra, stain technology for logs has improved. We know that both Transformation Log & Timber and Sashco’s Capture / Cascade system will last longer on logs, a much harsher environment for a stain than traditional wood siding. So, when it’s time to strip and re-stain your log home, use those products and you’ll have less maintenance over time. But for those customers who insist on a matter finish, Transformation Siding & Trim is certainly an option.

If you wan to, feel free to use Transformation Log & Timber and Sashco’s Capture / Cascade on your wood siding for even better longevity and less maintenance. These stains are proven to stand the test of time on logs, a much harsher environment thant wood siding. If they can last on logs, they’ll last even longer on wood siding.

In the end, the longevity and look you want will ultimately determine which of our stain you choose.
I’ve seen different recommendations for maintaining my Transformation Log & Timber stain – one place says to use Cascade, another to use Transformation in Natural. Which is correct?

Refer to the Transformation Log & Timber Full Information Sheet for details on proper maintenance.
I’ve used Cascade in the past as a top coat on my Transformation Log & Timber stain. What should I use now?

Refer to the Transformation Log & Timber Full Information Sheet for details on proper maintenance.
I’ve used High Sierra in the past on my log home, but see now that it’s a new stain. What’s the difference between High Sierra and Transformation Siding & Trim? Can I use the new Transformation on my log home?

If you have used High Sierra in the past for log and timber applications, we recommend you switch to Transformation Log & Timber when it’s time to do maintenance. When it comes time to completely strip and re-stain the home, you can switch at that time to either Transformation Log & Timber or Sashco’s Capture / Cascade system.

Transformation Siding & Trim is the same formula as High Sierra, but is recommended for use on Siding & Trim. If you choose to continue using Transformation Siding & Trim on your logs, just know that it will require more frequent maintenance than our other stains made specifically for log structures.
So which stain should I used? What are the differences between them?

We have formulated our stains for use on specific surfaces to make the choice easy for you. Sashco’s stains have many similarities, but the differences include:

a) Basically, a different “look,” which provides more aesthetic choices to the user.
b) Capture Log Stain is more flexible than the Transformation stains.
c) The three stains have different polymers in their formulas.
What are the advantages / disadvantages of oil- and water-based stains?

First, let’s clear up one misconception: there are actually 3 different types of stains, not just oil- and water-based. Below is a brief overview of the types and their pros and cons. Sashco always recommends using a stain with some sort of film-forming property to it, as the film is where the majority of the UV protection is derived. And, as is usually the case, the higher-quality the raw materials, the greater the longevity and better long-term appearance of the product.

SURFACE STAINS: all are water-based. They penetrate only into the first layer of wood cells. (Sashco’s Capture / Cascade system is a surface stain)

Pros: Environmentally friendly; low odor; water clean-up; good water-repellancy; compatible with caulk and chinking; dries fast, excellent UV protection and longevity out of better brands

Cons: Some brands dry hard and rigid, leading to flaking or peeling; back brushing required; weather conditions must be warm for proper drying and film formation; lower-quality resins fall apart quickly with UV exposure

SHALLOW PENETRATING STAINS: oil-based, water-oil emulsions, alkyd dispersions. They penetrate 1-4 cell layers deep. (All of Sashco’s Transformation stains are shallow penetrating stains)

Pros: Good water-repellancy; can be environmentally friendly; excellent water-repellancy; excellent UV protection and longevity out of better brands; most brands compatible with caulks and chinking; more “forgiving” when applied in less-than-ideal weather

Cons: sometimes slower dry time; film-forming, which can lead to peeling or flaking when proper prep is not done; solvent clean-up; resins used can dry hard and rigid

DEEP PENETRATING STAINS: all oil-based. They penetrate at least 3-4 cells deep, often as much as ½” deep. (No Sashco products are deep penetrating stains)

Pros: Good initial water-repellancy; little to no flaking or peeling since no film is left on the surface; easily re-coated; great for decks and shingles

Cons: Not compatible with most all caulk and chinking; minimal UV protection; leaves oily residue on surface; picks up dirt easily; slippery long after application; solvent clean-up; does not last long (especially on log homes); darkens significantly over time
What can I do to help Transformation Deck & Fence last longer on my fence?

The biggest culprit of fence damage is prolonged moisture exposure from sprinklers directed at the fence. If at all possible, redirect sprinklers away from the fence.
What can I use to stain my interior or exterior tongue and groove ceiling?

You can use both Capture and Transformaiton Siding & Trim on interior ane exterior tongue and groove wood. Consider the following tips:

1) Transformation Siding & Trim is easier to apply on wood with a tighter grain and pores. It doesn’t dry as quickly as a pure water-base, which means fewer issues with lap marks.

2) Set up ladder planks or scaffolding so you can work across 3-5 boards at a time, which will help you avoid lap marks.

3) Apply a water-based sanding sealer prior to staining to close the pores of the wood. This will provide the ideal surface for good color consistency as you’re applying the stain.

4) Apply the stain with a sprayer, if possible. If you must brush, work across 3-5 boards at a time, going the entire length of the boards or to a natural breakpoint in the board.

5) If the heat is on (interior applications), consider turning it off. The heat will build up at the ceiling, causing the product to dry faster, which could lead to more lap marks.

6) Follow with 2 or more coats of Symphony (on all interior applications) or 1 coat of Cascade (only over Capture on the exterior), both of which dry harder than the stain and help repel dirt, dust, etc.
What do you mean by “Easy ‘No Sanding’ Maintenance” on Transformation Deck & Fence? It sounds too good to be true.

When applied properly and maintained regularly (every 1-2 years on a deck, every 3-4 years on a fence), Transformation Deck & Fence won’t peel, which means no sanding will be required for maintenance. And, because it doesn’t form a thick film on the surface, you don’t have to remove it every time you need to do another coat. See the Full Information Sheet for details on “A Better Way to Stain”, including maintenance instructions.
What do you mean by “No Peel Formula” on Transformation Siding & Trim? It sounds too good to be true.

When applied properly and maintained regularly (every 3-4 years), Transformation Siding & Trim won’t peel. And, because it doesn’t form a thick film on the surface, you don’t have to remove it every time you need to do another coat. Refer to the Full Information Sheet for details on “A Better Way to Stain,” which shows how proper application the first time around makes for easy maintenance down the road.
What kind of stain is Transformation Deck & Fence?

Technically, it’s an alkyd dispersion stain. We have taken traditional alkyd resins and dispersed them into water. What this means: easy water clean-up, combined with the long-term hardiness of a traditional alkyd resin.
What kind of stain is Transformation Siding & Trim?

Technically, it’s an alkyd dispersion stain. We have taken traditional alkyd resins and dispersed them into water. What this means: easy water clean-up, combined with the long-term hardiness of a traditional alkyd resin.
What makes Transformation Deck & Fence so good for decks and fences?

The resin used in Transforation Deck & Fence is a low-build resin, which means lower risk of slip & fall incidents on decks, plus less peeling risk on both decks and fences. This, in turn, makes for safer customers, a longer lasting stain, and easy maintenance.
What makes Transformation Log & Timber so good for restoration jobs?

Often in a restoration situation, the homeowner does not know all the stains that have been previously used on the home. Some stains contain “non-drying” oils that can cause compatibility issues with future stains. Transformation Log & Timber is an oil based stain formulated with one of the highest quality resins available. As such, compatibility issues with previous stains are minimal. But, if a non-drying oil stain has been applied to the wood, it would be best to wait 18 months before applying Transformation.
What stain can I use on my wood if I’ve previously used a stain containing waxes or other non-drying oils?

Transformation Log & Timber is the stain to use in these circumstances. Some stains are formulated with oils that never dry. Typically these stains are solvent based products that work by penetrating into the wood, leaving close to nothing on the surface. The advantage of these stains is that they never peel. The disadvantages are that very little surface protection is afforded, meaning they fade very quickly and require frequent re-application. In addition, they are not usually compatible with with other types of stain, nor most sealants (caulking and chinking).

If you have a non-drying oil based stain on your log home, Transformation Log & Timber is your best bet to minimize any compatibility issues. We recommend you let the previous stain weather for at least 18 months, which allows most of the oils and waxes to wash and wear off the surface. Then Transformation Log & Timber will have a better chance of performing well. Be aware, however, that Sashco cannot guarantee performance of Transformation stain over these heavy, waxy stains.
Which of your stains can I use on my interior logs?

Both Capture and Transformation Siding & Trim are great for interior staining. Both need to be top-coated with Symphony to give the best appearance and make for easiest cleaning.