Sorry my previous post really covered painting the golden oak. If y stain it, you will save alot of work, but you will still need a light sanding to help the darker stain adhere to the wood.

Your gold oak trim is probably stained with an oil-based stain. If that is the case, then you have to first consider whether or not you are going to paint it with a latex based or oil based paint.

The biggest concern is to apply a good primer that will adhere to the golden oak and also prevent any bleeding. We like Zinnser primer (either latex or oil), but take a close look at the three Cover stain (gold white cans) at http://www.zinnser.com/subcat.asp?CategoryID=1. However, we would recommend a light sanding no matter what you decide to use for a primer. Rent a small orbital sander and use an 80 or 120 grit sandpaper to just rough things up. Don't sand down to the wood.

We don't like the liquids or gels although we have used them on cabinets. In your case it may be very hard to wash the gel or liquid off, etc. So sanding seems like the easiest and healthiest way to go.

Back to primers, generally one coat of Zinnser primer is sufficient. Make sure you let it dry for 24 hours or see the label. If the golden oak is bleeding through, you may want to prime it again.

Then we suggest two coats of a good exterior paint we like Benjamin Moore or Sherwin Williams, but there are plenty that are just as good. Make sure to allow the first coat to dry completely. Go with a latex and a semi gloss finish. The latex is easier to apply.

Hope this helps.