Getting to know the pros and cons of staining wood can help you make an informed decision about whether or not staining is the right choice for you. At Dunbar Painting, we want to help you maintain the beauty of your wood and protect it from the elements. That is why we offer a selection of wood staining services.
The Pros of Staining Wood
Some of the pros of staining wood include:
Allows for the Wood’s Colour, Grain & Texture to Remain Visible
Stains are available in solid, semitransparent, and clear colours with increased options for tinting with products like Sansin SDF, making it easy to choose how much of the natural wood shows through. Unlike painted wood, stained wood will fade over time rather than peeling and, in some cases, you may be able to simply scuff sand the wood before recoating it.
Penetrates the Wood Grain
Quality stains penetrate the wood grain, preventing moisture from soaking into the wood and causing rot. Staining wood and then adding a clear coat on top can also be a great way to protect window frames, wood siding, and doors, while also minimizing maintenance to only having to maintain the clear coat itself.
Highlights the Beauty of the Wood
Choosing the right stain and finish for a wood surface can help enhance the wood’s natural beauty rather than completely masking it. Staining can also be a great way to enhance the look of a wood deck or steps, as it will not peel and fail in the same way paint does.
The Cons of Staining Wood
Some of the cons of staining wood are:
Only Lasts a Few Years
While some stains can last up to five years, postponing re-staining a wood surface for too long can cause the job to become more complex and labour intensive. Even decks that are stripped and re-stained will still require maintenance every couple of years.
Certain Woods Do Not Hold Stains Well
Some woods, such as tropical hardwoods, are too dense to hold onto certain stains well. Most tropical hardwoods can be stained with Sansin DEC (a two-coat deck product) or Sansin SDF (for vertical areas like siding, doors, windows, railings, fences, etc.); however, this type of wood requires a slightly different sanding technique that should be completed by a professional.
For other types of wood, it may be beneficial to apply a clear wood preservative every few years to protect the wood from sun damage, as long as the clear coat is properly maintained. If the clear coat is left to fail, the entire surface will need to be stripped and completely redone.
Wood Stain is Less Predictable than Paint
Staining wood requires a much more experienced applicator because wood stain is less predictable than paint. In order to get the right look and finish, a lot more testing is required to ensure that the job provides the desired effect.
If you would like to learn more about the pros and cons of staining wood, or if you are interested in one of our staining services, please contact Dunbar Painting at 604-788-3382 or by filling out a contact form on our website.
FAQs
In conclusion, exterior wood staining has both benefits and drawbacks that should be considered before making a decision. While staining can protect the wood, enhance its beauty, and extend its life, it can also be time-consuming, expensive, and require regular maintenance.
What are the advantages and disadvantages to using a stain? ›
Pros and Cons of Staining Wood
- Allows for the Wood's Colour, Grain & Texture to Remain Visible. ...
- Penetrates the Wood Grain. ...
- Highlights the Beauty of the Wood. ...
- Only Lasts a Few Years. ...
- Certain Woods Do Not Hold Stains Well. ...
- Wood Stain is Less Predictable than Paint.
Oil-Based Wood Stain
| Benefits | Disadvantages |
|---|
| Durable and more resistant to scratches | More difficult to clean up (requires solvents) |
| Excellent water repellency | Potentially harmful VOCs |
| Can be applied in a wide range of weather conditions | Can yellow over time |
| Easier to achieve a smooth, streak-free finish | Can be more expensive |
2 more rowsAug 22, 2023
Staining seals off the pores in wood, preventing it from taking water. Besides adding color, the treatment also adds a layer of protection from the sun's UV rays, minimizing or preventing discoloration.
What are the cons of staining wood? ›
Disadvantages of staining wooden worktops
- It can get cloudy over time, particularly if the surface does not have a top coat of hard-wax oil protection.
- Unprotected stained surfaces are vulnerable to unwanted marks (i.e., water and acidity)
There are several benefits to using wood stain on your floors, furniture, or other wooden surfaces. Wood stain can protect the wood from water damage, sun damage, and scratches. It can also enhance the wood's natural colour and grain. And wood stain is available in both water-based and oil-based formulas.
What are the 3 practical advantages of negative staining? ›
The advantages of the negative stain include the use of only one stain and the absence of heat fixation of the sample. Negative staining employs the use of an acidic stain and, due to repulsion between the negative charges of the stain and the bacterial surface, the dye will not penetrate the cell.
Is wood stain enough? ›
While staining creates a rich, deep color that highlights natural wood grain, it does not provide long-term protection. Without a protective top coat, wood can be damaged easily due to contact with water, food, or sharp objects. A polyurethane top coat protects the wood from scratches, stains and water damage.
Is wood stain worth it? ›
Staining a wood deck doesn't just add to its beauty; it adds a layer of protection to the wood that will help it look great for years to come. The same holds true for staining fences, siding, or outdoor furniture. The best wood stains can help add years to the life of the wood.
Does stain make wood last longer? ›
Only ONE coat of stain is needed every 3-6 years to protect your fence. Extends the life of your fence by several years.
The oil will protect your wooden patio for a longer period of time. Why? Simply because it is impregnating. Unlike synthetic stains which lie on the surface, oil penetrates the wood pores, making it impossible for water to seep in.
Do you need to apply anything after staining wood? ›
Applying a topcoat sealer is not required, but a finish protects the stained wood from scratches and keeps it from fading over time. If applying a polyurethane wood finish with a brush, apply one to two coats. If using a spray can, hold 8 to 12 inches from the surface and apply two or three light coats.
Is stain enough to protect wood? ›
Some stains have oil or other additives that provide a little protection, but the general answer is it doesn't. You need a top coat or other finish (frequently clear so you can still enjoy the view of the stain) to protect the wood.
What are the best conditions to stain wood? ›
Ideally, the best temperature to stain wood is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. At lower temperatures, there may be many problems in the staining process that might hinder your work or make it worse than you started with.
Is it better to stain or paint old wood? ›
Paint generally lasts longer as it forms a protective layer against weathering. However, stains won't peel like paints might over time.
How long does wood stain last on wood? ›
Clear and transparent stains need a touchup every year or two. Semi-transparent last 2 to 3 years. Semi-solid stains are good for 2 to 4 years of protection. Solid stains on decks may protect up to 5 to 7 years.
