Pub Maintenance

All of our Corletti's Garden Pubs are crafted with high-quality, grade #1 pressure-treated pine lumber, ideal for year-round outdoor use. Although pressure-treated wood is treated with chemicals to resist rot and insect damage, it does not fully prevent moisture absorption. Over time, this moisture can lead to cracking, splintering, and warping. For this reason, we highly recommend that customers seal their new bar after assembly using an exterior-grade paint or a combined stain/sealer. This protective layer will also offer UV protection, which helps to slow down the fading of the wood's colour.

  1. Before sealing your Corletti's Garden Pubs, let the wood dry completely. You can check dryness by feeling the wood or performing the “sprinkle” test. If the wood absorbs water quickly, it is ready for sealing.
  2. Once dry, sand the entire surface using 120-grit sandpaper. You may notice small cracks in the wood once it dries; this is normal and does not impact the bar’s structural integrity. Any imperfections, such as cracks or knots, can be filled with wood filler, then sanded smooth after drying.
  3. For painting or staining, use a brush or paint pad applicator. If you choose to paint, be sure to prime the surface first. If staining, pick a combined stain/sealer product, as these are widely available. Lighter stains are recommended for new Corletti's Garden Pubs bars, as they allow you to apply a darker stain later if desired.
  4. For the countertops, once painted or stained, apply a layer of polyurethane to provide added protection from spills and stains.

When to Stain Your Corletti's Garden Pub

Pressure-treated wood retains high moisture after treatment, which means it may take several weeks to fully dry. Staining the wood before it's dry can be ineffective. To test if your wood is ready to stain, use the “sprinkle” test: sprinkle water on the surface. If the water is absorbed within 10 minutes, it’s time to stain. If the water pools or beads up, wait longer for the wood to dry.

Staining the Wood

Stain dries quickly, so avoid applying it in direct sunlight. Protect surrounding areas with tarps or painter’s tape before starting. Stir the stain well and pour it into a paint tray. Always test a small area of wood to ensure you’re happy with the color before applying it to the whole surface. Use a paint pad or brush to apply the stain—avoid using a spray gun. Be careful when staining ship lap boards to prevent stain from seeping into the seams. Let the stain dry for at least 24 hours.

Painting Pressure-Treated Wood

Because of the pressure treatment process, paint can struggle to adhere to pressure-treated wood and may peel over time. Some professionals recommend staining or sealing instead of painting, but with proper preparation, painting is still a viable option.

To paint, first allow the wood to dry fully. Then, prepare the surface as you would for staining. To ensure the paint adheres well, use a bristle brush to apply a primer designed for pressure-treated wood. After priming, apply two coats of exterior latex paint for best results.

Sealing Pressure-Treated Wood (Without Stain)

Most exterior stains already include a sealer to protect against moisture. However, if you want to maintain the natural appearance of the wood while enhancing its protection, consider using a clear sealant. This will safeguard the wood while preserving its natural grain. If you prefer both protection and color, choose a stain that also acts as a sealer, though sealants should not be used on top of previously stained wood. When sealing, make sure to use a product that offers UV protection. Apply the sealant in the same manner as stain.