In one of our latest videos, Joe demos HyperTone stain on a white oak floor! He applies some to a section of the floor that is waterpopped and one that isn’t waterpopped so you can see the difference. Click the picture above to watch the full video.

HyperTone introduces an innovative waterbased oil hybrid technology that revolutionizes the staining process. Its waterbased nature allows for application on water-popped floors that are still slightly damp—a capability beyond the reach of traditional solvent-based stains, streamlining your workflow.

Moreover, HyperTone makes achieving uniform stain application on maple floors, especially in gym settings where consistency is key, remarkably easier. Maple, known for its challenges in staining evenly, is no longer a concern with HyperTone‘s advanced formula.

Watch as Joe turns a white oak floor into a beautiful hickory color with this stain.

There are 14 colors available in pint and gallon sizes – from classic colors like hickory, amber, and tobacco to bright red, yellow, and blue for vibrant results on a sports floor. Click here to browse the full selection!

Applying stain to a waterpopped vs. non-waterpopped floor

Water-popping is a technique used to prepare hardwood floors before staining. It involves dampening the wood to raise the grain, allowing the stain to penetrate more deeply. This process is especially beneficial for getting a darker, richer, and more uniform color across the floor. When stain is applied to a water-popped floor, the open grain allows for more stain to be absorbed, enhancing the wood’s natural texture and variation. The result is a more vibrant, intense color that highlights the wood’s inherent beauty.

On the other hand, applying stain directly to a non-water-popped floor, meaning the wood has not been dampened and the grain remains closed, results in a lighter, more subtle coloration. Stain applied to a non-water-popped floor sits more on the surface, leading to less color absorption. This method is often used when a lighter, more natural look is desired, or when working with wood types that already have a strong color or grain pattern.

Water-popping can help achieve a more uniform stain application, especially useful in woods with varying porosity. Without water-popping, the stain may appear uneven or blotchy in areas where the wood absorbs it differently.

Water-popping requires additional steps and drying time before staining can begin, making it a longer process than staining non-water-popped floors. However, the end result can be worth the extra effort for those seeking a specific aesthetic.

You can see the differences firsthand in the above video when Joe applies the HyperTone stain to the waterpopped section of the floor and compares it to the results on the non-waterpopped side.

Shop our selection of Basic Coatings HyperTone Stains

If you’re looking to achieve a deep, rich stain in your hardwood floors, Basic Coatings HyperTone is a great choice. Click here to browse the full selection of colors!