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It’s necessary for paint to completely dry before exposure to rain, and that drying time varies by the type of paint used. Oil-based paint takes 6 to 8 hours to dry on average, meaning that’s the minimum time needed between the last brush stroke and the first raindrop. Latex paint dries faster at around 1 hour, and acrylic paint is even quicker, usually drying in about 30 minutes. If rain is in the forecast, check the paint manufacturer's details before laying on a new coat. 

Applying a sealer after staining is often recommended, especially for outdoor wood surfaces like decks or fences. It helps protect the wood from moisture, UV rays, and other elements, extending the life of the stain and preserving the wood's appearance. It also enhances the stain's durability and resistance to wear and tear. 

However, in some indoor applications, a sealer may not be necessary, depending on the type of stain used and the level of protection required. Always check the specific product recommendations and consider the wood's exposure and usage when deciding whether to apply a sealer after staining.

Wood stain does go bad, but it will last in the can for between three and six years, provided you use proper storage techniques. Storing wood stain in open containers or in extremely low or high temperatures will cause your wood stain to become unusable much more quickly. Water- and latex-based wood stains typically last for just two to four years, while oil-based wood stains can last for three to six years.

Beginners can absolutely use a paint sprayer, but there is some technique involved, so you’ll have to spend some time learning how to use your sprayer. It’s a good idea to practice on a scrap surface before moving to your actual painting project to get used to using the sprayer. This can help avoid over spraying, which can lead to drips, bubbles, and other imperfections on your finished product.