Wood Defender vs. Stain and Seal Experts: Which One is the Best Wood Stain Manufacturer?

The process of staining wood can be a DIY task. You need some knowledge, the right tools, and supplies to kick off the project. With a myriad of options out there, the right stain can make a huge difference and save you lots of headaches.

If you're planning to stain the exterior wood, we recommend a stain with long durability and a product that doesn't come off easily.

This article will provide all the information you need to know about purchasing the best wood stain. Here, we have compared products by America's two leading wood stain manufacturers: Wood Defender and Stain & Seal Experts. We'll also share some basics that you may need to know about wood staining.

So without further ado, let's begin.

What is a Wood Stain?

There are various types of stains. We have listed seven of them here:

Oil-Based Stain

It is one of the most widely used wood stains. It contains an oil combined with varnish. The oil-based stain is easy to apply and covers the surface evenly. It is a long-lasting stain type.

Pros

✔ Covers the wood evenly and smoothly.

✔ Soaks deep into the wood, making the surface durable and long-lasting.

✔ Suitable for outdoor wood such as decks and fences.

Cons

✖ Dries slowly.

✖ Mold can grow.

Water-based Stain

This stain type uses water instead of oil as a thinning agent. It also contains water-based dyes to give wood its color. The water-based stains are relatively more environmentally friendly.

Pros

✔Fast-drying stains.

✔ Environmentally friendly.

Cons

✖ Requires more care while staining.

✖ Short-lived.

Gel Stain

This stain type contains gel as a thinning agent. Since these stains are dense, they will not run or drip. However, these stains take a long time to dry. Since gel stains are stick, they do not penetrate as well as an oil-based stain, so you need to re-apply sooner than you think.

Pros

✔ It doesn't run or drip.

✔ Less work is required during the preparation mode.

✔ It hides stains and blemishes

Cons

✖ Dries slowly

✖ Very thick to soak in the wood

Lacquer Stain

This stain type is very thin and dries quickly; it can dry as soon as 15 minutes. The lacquer stain can drip and run.

Pros

✔ Dries fast

✔ Penetrates well

Water Soluble Dye

It is a transparent wood stain. You will never completely cover the surface. However, you can add a little color to the surface to give it an attractive appearance.

Pros

✔ Keeps the natural look of the wood

✔ Offers a selection of colors and styles

Cons

✖ Not UV resistant

✖ Metalized Dye

Varnish Stains

The varnish stain type contains varnish as a binder. It dries hard and protects the surface well from dirt, grime, and even water.

Pros

✔ Comes out with a dry surface and well protects the wood.

✔ Easy to apply

Cons

✖ Discolors over time

Metal Dye Stain

It is more resistant to fading. However, the UV rays from the sun and other conditions can still cause fading. This stain contains metals such as nickel, chromium, copper, and cobalt, making it more durable and giving a longer life to the outside timber.

Pros

✔ Apply with a sprayer

✔ Fades slower than water-soluble dye stains

Cons

✖ Dries quickly

✖ Requires mastery before application

Wood Defender vs. Stain and Seal: Which One to Buy?

Wood Defender

Wood Defender™ is a product of Standard Paints that started in 1952 in Dallas, Texas. They began by manufacturing quality wood-protection products and soon developed a good reputation among contractors for producing long-lasting and easy-to-use products.

Wood Defender™ produces tons of wood stains for fences, decks, and other items. We'll review only one here.

⬤Surface: Wood

⬤ Opacity: Semi-transparent

⬤ Great for: fences and decks

⬤ Warranty: 2 years, can last for up to 4 years

⬤ Customer rating: 3.7

Product Description

Wood Defender's 200 Series Semi-Transparent Stain & Seal is based on the latest technology. It protects the wood from harmful elements.

It has a deep-penetrating formula and is a blend of modified oils and resins that protects the wood from water and UV rays. It's an anti-mildew and antifungal solvent.

It's easy to apply. It ensures superior results and doesn't require back-brushing.

Pros

✔ Good penetration

✔ Easy to apply

✔ Nice appearance

✔ No visible mold or mildew

Cons

✖ Powerful odor

✖ Color doesn't hold up

✖ Not eco friendly

Stain and Seal Experts

Stain & Seal Experts started in 2012 as a small fence and deck staining company in Nashville. They grew rapidly, and today, they're famous for manufacturing and distributing oil-based stains and sealers, and wood restoration chemicals. They're now a nationwide brand, serving the greater Nashville and Middle Tennessee area. Their vast team offers services to tackle large projects for far-flung areas.

The company manufactures four staining products. We'll review one of those here.

⬤ Surface: Wood

⬤ Opacity: Semi-transparent

⬤ Great for: fences and decks

⬤ Warranty: 2 years

⬤ Customer rating: 5

Product Description

The product is best for woods like Western Red Cedar, Treated Pine, Redwood, and more. It enhances the wood's natural beauty and protects it from UV rays and water.

The Semi-Transparent Wood Stain & Sealer is a blend of non-drying oils and conditioners, allowing the content to set deep to nurture wood.

The stain is easy to apply, doesn't create filming, and doesn't leave lap marks.

Pros

✔ Easy to apply.

✔ Highlights wood's natural beauty.

✔ Protects from UV rays and water.

✔ Good for the environment.

Cons

✖ None found

Choosing the Right Exterior Wood Stain for Your Project

Before staining the exterior wood, we also advise you to ask yourself a few questions:

What type of wood does your exterior have?

Different stain types work differently with varying kinds of wood. Softwoods are highly absorbent and go better with the oil-based stain. For hardwoods, you may choose a water-based wood stain.

What is the purpose of staining?

Are you looking to protect the exterior wood or give it a new look? Both may have different solutions. Some wood stains are better at protection, while others work well to keep the wood's natural texture. Selecting between various stain types largely depends on your reason for staining.

How is the weather condition in your area?

Before starting staining, consider weather conditions. The summer season can make your project more susceptible to rot and mildew. Because of this, water-based stains can shield against more damage control.

You may also ask a staining expert to get the right product. Precision Staining LLC loves helping people and is ready to answer your questions.