Before 2009, Andersen offered window and patio door grilles in various materials. Staining instructions vary based on the grille type. To determine the correct method, first identify the grille material using the information below.  For assistance, please Contact Andersen® Windows and Doors.

Wood Interior Removable Grilles

Wood interior grilles are standard for the majority of Andersen® products. The interior face of the grille will be unfinished maple or oak. The exterior face of the grille will have a prefinished surface to match the exterior color of the Andersen® product.

If the interior removable grille is painted on both the exterior and interior surfaces, then no further finishing is required. The exterior side of each wood interior grille is painted to match the exterior finish of the product and should not be refinished. Always finish removable grilles before installing them on the Andersen® product.

Profile of Interior Removable Grille

Installation

The following instructions are for staining the interior of the removable interior grille.

Tools/Supplies Needed

Safety Glasses

Soft, Dry Cloth

Fine Sandpaper (220-grit) or Steel Wool

Pre-Stain

High-Quality Oil-Based Wood Stain

Wood Sealer (lacquer, varnish or polyurethane)

Steps

1. Remove the grilles, following the instructions provided in Identifying and Installing Grille Fasteners for Removable Interior Grilles on Andersen® Windows and Doors 

    

2. Lightly sand the interior surface of the grilles with fine sandpaper or steel wool

    

3. Following the manufacturer's instructions, apply pre-stain. We recommend using pre-stain to prevent a spotty appearance

    

4. Following the manufacturer's instructions, apply high-quality oil-based wood stain. Apply stain in a well-ventilated area

    

5. Allow the stain to dry overnight before further finishing is attempted

    

6. Seal the wood using thinned finishing material or wood sealer (any quality conventional lacquer, varnish or polyurethane) following the manufacturer's instructions

    

7. If a second coat of wood sealer is needed, sand the grilles between coats using 200-grit sandpaper

    

Try to prevent run-over of the topcoat onto the exterior surface. Remove any runover using mineral spirits. 

For information on matching Andersen® Window and Patio Door stain and paint colors, see Matching Andersen® Window and Door Stain and Paint Colors.

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