No, you cannot stain furniture when it's raining.
Trying to stain furniture during rain or high humidity is not recommended. As the provided reference states, "Too much moisture in the air makes the stain wet, let alone slow down the drying process." This excess moisture prevents the stain from drying properly and can lead to a poor finish.
Furthermore, "rain can wash away most of the wet stains on the wood." This means your hard work could be literally washed away, leaving you with an uneven or incomplete stain application.
Why Rain and Humidity Affect Staining
- Slow Drying: High humidity levels, common during rain, mean the air is already saturated with water. Stain relies on evaporation to dry and cure. When the air is humid, evaporation is significantly slower.
- Poor Adhesion: Improper drying due to moisture can prevent the stain from penetrating and adhering to the wood fibers correctly, leading to a patchy or weak color.
- Washout: Direct rain exposure on wet stain will dissolve and remove it from the wood surface, potentially requiring you to strip the furniture and start over.
Best Conditions for Staining
For best results, it's crucial to stain furniture in dry conditions with moderate temperatures. Check the weather forecast and wait for a clear day with low humidity. Ensure the furniture is clean and completely dry before starting.
Staining indoors in a well-ventilated area is an option if outdoor conditions are unsuitable, provided you have adequate space and ventilation.
