Precision Staining | Different Exterior Wood Stain Types: Comprehensive Guide

Different Exterior Wood Stain Types

Josh Richards • Nov 18, 2022

Different Exterior Wood Stain Types

There are many types of exterior wood stains available to homeowners. While most paints and stains are colorless, some offer a natural-looking appearance, while others have a distinct color.

Understanding the type of exterior wood stain you need for your home can help you pick the right product for your needs. Different types of exterior wood stains are used for different purposes and situations. Read on to know more about these types, their uses, and their advantages or disadvantages.

What is Wood Stain?

Wood stain is a liquid that protects the wood from harmful elements and gives the wood a new look and life. You may argue that paint does the same thing. So what's the difference?

Stain vs. Paint

Thickness: Stain is thinner than paint. It means it's easy to coat, but you may have to apply multiple coats to get a good finish.

Colorways: Stain has fewer color options than paint. Use stain when you prefer the natural appeal of the wood.

Cost: Stain is usually cheaper than paint.

Application: You can't apply stain on a previously stained wood. You must first strip the wood to use a new layer of stain. Where you can coat a fresh layer of paint over a previously painted wood.

Resistance: Stain is resistant to peel, crack, or flake. But it doesn't last as long as the stain.

What are Different Types of Wood Stain?

Oil-Based Stain

An oil-based stain is a great way to protect your exterior wood from the elements. It provides a durable, long-lasting finish that resists fading and peeling. Oil-based stains are also easy to apply and can be touch-up if necessary.

Water-Based Stain

Water-based stains are an excellent option for exterior wood projects. They protect you from the elements and help keep your project looking great for years to come. Water-based stains are also easy to apply and clean up, making them an excellent choice for do-it-yourselfers.

Gel-Based Stain

Gel Based Stain is a type of exterior wood stain applied in a gel form and allowed to be set for some time before being wiped off. This stain is ideal for use on vertical surfaces, such as siding or trim, as it will not run or drip as other stains. Gel Based Stain is also excellent for large projects, as it can be applied quickly and evenly with little waste.

Lacquer Stain

Lacquer is an exterior wood stain made up of a mixture of lacquer and pigment. It is applied to wood surfaces to protect them from the elements and give them a bit of color.

Lacquer stain is available in various colors and can be applied to both new and old wood surfaces. To apply lacquer stain, you will need to purchase a quality brush or sprayer and some painter's tape.

Once you have everything you need, follow the can instructions and allow plenty of time for the lacquer stain to dry.

Water Soluble Dye

Water Soluble Dye is an exterior wood stain that can be used to achieve a variety of colors. This dye is typically made from natural ingredients like plant extracts and can be applied using a brush, sprayer, or roller. Water Soluble Dye is ideal for staining decks, fences, siding, and other outdoor surfaces.

Varnish Stains

It's no secret that varnish is one of the best exterior wood stains on the market. But what about when it comes to removing varnish stains? Here are a few tips to help you get the job done right.

One of the best ways to remove varnish stains is to use a power washer. It will help to loosen any dried-on stains and make them easier to remove. Start with the lowest setting first, and work your way up if needed.

If you don't have access to a power washer, you can also try using a garden hose with a high-pressure nozzle. Again, start with the lowest setting and work your way up if necessary. If all else fails, you can always resort to using a little elbow grease and a scrub brush.

Metal Dye Stain

A new trend in exterior wood stains is Metal Dye Stain. This type of stain can be applied to any wood, including cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated lumber. Metal Dye Stain is available in various colors, including natural hues like brown and gray and bolder shades like blue and green. The stain is applied with a brush or roller and dries quickly, so it's perfect for busy homeowners who don't have much time to spend staining their deck or fence.

Water-Soluble Dye Stain

Looking to add color to your exterior wood without all the hassle of a traditional stain? Look no further than water-soluble dye stains! These easy-to-use stains can be applied directly to wood for beautiful, long-lasting color that won't peel or chip. Plus, they're perfect for those hard-to-reach places like decks and fences. So next time you're staining your wood, reach for a water-soluble dye stain and get the job done right.

Why do You Need to Know Different Types of Wood Stains?

There are various types of wood stains. Knowing these types is best before randomly selecting one for the project is best.Here's why you should know different types of wood stains:

Protection: While every wood stain will protect the wood from harmful elements, some will give you better protection than others.

Natural appeal: Some staining products will focus more on wood protection, while others will keep the natural wood look.

Usage: Oil-based is easy to apply. So if you don't want to put yourself in difficult situations, consider choosing the type that's easy to use.

Durability: Wood stains like oil are more durable than water-based stains. So if you want to give a long life to the wood, you may consider using oil-based stains.

Eco-friendly: Water-based stain is more eco-friendly than an oil-based stain. If you plan to stain your dock, you prefer water-based stains over the others.

Which Stain Should You Choose for Your Exterior Wood?

Many different types of stains can be used on exterior wood, and the kind of stain you choose will depend on the look you are going for and the level of protection you need. If you want a natural look for your wood, a transparent or semi-transparent stain will allow the grain to show through while still providing protection from the elements. If you want a more opaque look, choose a solid color stain.

If you are still confused about so many types of wood stains, you can always contact wood staining experts near you.

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