We just installed Fibertec windows which have a maple veneer on the inside. Anyone here have experience staining them? I've read quite a bit about challenges staining maple (not specifically Fibertec's). Stain can apparently look "blotchy". due to variations in the grain of the wood.

I've also read suggestions to use dye products instead of stain.

The maple may become a bigger issue if we decide to use it for interior doors and trim.

Thanks for the help,
Greg

You are correct that as a close grained wood maple will not easily take a stain. Water based dyes will work well--I suggest Trans Tint from homesteadfinishing.com. The website will explain their many uses. In addition to applying them directly to the wood, you can tint most water based varnishes and lacquers as well as shellac. The wood will need to be very well prepared and sanded as dyes will highlight any imperfections. One of the advantages of this product is that it comes as a concentrate which enables you to mix it very strong for maximum color. Remember, dyes are not a finish and will need a top coat for both protection and to look good. One caveat, although these are most light fast dyes available they can fade when hit with UV. Best for your top coat to have UV blockers. If you stay with the honey tones they are less likely to fade and if they do, the same UV rays will darken the wood, and it will be a wash. Probably being too conservative here, but this is an issue where it is hard to be definitive with some many variables in play. Have fun!

This is very hard to stain maple , it will not stain even. You should buy some kiind of primer befor the stain and that might help. On my floors I use water poping this is just an extra step before staining I wet the floor with rags damp in cold water , if you decide to do it make sure you do it with all your windows becuase that water poping is opening the woods grain and that helps the stain to take it evenly and will get the wood darker then just staining it without water poping.remember this is not easy anyway to sain it nice. You could use just clear finish and the Maple will look great.
Good Luck

Use sanding sealer first. Call your window  supplier and have them send you a small sample for testing .