Cypress wood is a light-colored wood, so it seems like it’d be easy to cover with paint. However, along with cedar and redwood, cypress contains natural tannins that bleeds through paint quickly. In order to paint cypress wood, prep the surface and apply a stain-blocking primer.Click to see full answer. In this regard, does cypress pine need to be painted?Finishing & Painting. Cypress readily accepts paints and stains. However, many homeowners and design professionals select cypress for the appeal of its honey-like hues, which can be maintained with a clear sealer or permitted to weather to a dark gray.Likewise, what is the best finish for cypress wood? Use a polyurethane varnish to finish indoor cypress wood. If finishing outdoor cypress wood, use an oil-based mildew-resistant wood stain. How to Finish Cypress Wood Remove all furniture from the room if you are finishing a floor. Slip on some gloves to protect your hands. Let the varnish or stain dry completely. Additionally, how do you keep Cypress from turning GREY? If left untreated, however, cypress lumber fades to a silvery grey color within a few years. The regular application of a an exterior varnish, also known as urethane, or other clear sealant will preserve the beautiful natural color of cypress wood in outdoor applications.Can you stain Cypress?Cypress is often used for outdoor furniture and for exterior shingles and siding but can also be used indoors. When used outdoors the wood will age to a light grey color, much like teak. The wood is very receptive to stain. Wood looks finished and richer with a coat of stain.