"Evodawg" wrote in message
...
I have a pre built Oak Mantel to stain and install today. It has been
sanded by the builder. It has also been handled a few times to position it
and mark nailing supports. My big worry is oil from my hands and the
possibility of leaving finger prints on the finish and any other processes
you guys use to get a great look. Should it be sealed with a clear coat or
verathane?

Thanks for any advice
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I have stained quite a bit of oak and will say that I always sand just
before staining. If the piece has been handled much between the sanding and
staining I would advise you to sand it again. Actually I would advise you
to sand it anyway so that "you" know that it has been properly sanded to the
correct grit and on all surfaces. I would not trust something that has been
so called "presanded". Typically sanding will do away with oily
fingerprints. Unless you actually see oily fingerprints I would not be too
concerned with contamination if you resand yourself.

Should you seal it? Do you want to add protection to the finish? I always
add a varnish 3 coats of some sort to a stained project. Keep in mind
however that some stains have a finish mixed in already. I would still
advise adding a coat or two for a consistent sheen/finish. Typically a coat
of any varnish is not enough, the coat in the stain is not going to be
either.