CUSTOM COLOR

The Custom Color Process

We keep custom color creation simple, collaborative, and highly predictable.

Step 1: Define Your Direction

There are a few ways to start:

• Provide a physical sample such as wood, siding, paint chip, etc.
• Share a paint color from your local supplier
• Work with your designer or architect

Step 2: Color Development

We partner with leading stain brands to formulate a finish that hits your exact design goals while perfectly suiting your chosen wood species.

Step 3: Sample Brush-Outs

We apply your custom color to actual wood samples, matching your species and finish as closely as possible. You’ll receive brush-outs for review and approval so you can see exactly how the color performs on real material.

Step 4: Refine if Needed

If adjustments are needed, we fine-tune the color until it’s right.

Step 5: Production

Once approved, your color is locked in and applied consistently across your order.

How We Apply Color

Our finishing process is designed for durability, consistency, and performance in real-world conditions.

Standard Application

We apply one full coat on all four sides of the board, followed by a second coat on the top face to ensure complete protection and smooth coverage.

Additional Coats (Where Needed)

Certain woods, like Western Hemlock, or projects in harsh environments may need an extra coat for optimal protection. We will guide you on what works best.

Flap Sanding Between Coats

For certain finishes, we may incorporate flap sanding between coats to improve coating adhesion, enhance surface uniformity, and refine the final texture.

Stain Systems We Use

We rely on premium, water-based stains. These low-VOC options protect the environment, penetrate the wood without forming a brittle film, highlight the natural grain, and make long-term maintenance simple.

Fire-Resistant Coatings

If your project needs fire protection, we pre-treat the wood with a fire-resistant coating before applying your stain. This meets safety codes while remaining fully compatible with our standard finishing process.

Choosing the Right Color

Color isn’t just about aesthetics, but also about how it will perform over time.

Factors to Consider

• Wood species, since each species absorbs color differently
• Sun exposure and UV conditions
• Surrounding materials such as roofing, windows, concrete, etc.
• Desired level of transparency, including clear, semi-transparent, or solid

Natural Variation

Wood is a natural material. Grain, density, and tone vary from piece to piece, which means no two boards are identical and color will have subtle variation, which is part of the appeal.

Maintenance & Longevity

A properly applied stain is designed to age gracefully, but all wood products require maintenance.

What to Expect Over Time

UV exposure will gradually lighten or weather the wood. Areas with more direct sun exposure will naturally change faster.

Maintenance Guidelines

• Periodic cleaning to remove dirt and debris
• Recoat intervals depend on exposure, typically 3–5 years
• No sanding or stripping required in most cases, just clean and reapply

We can provide guidance specific to your product and environment.