How Long Does Stain Last?

Josh Richards • Oct 04, 2022

Stains applied to the wood have a life. Some can go as long as up to ten years. Others live only for a couple of years. Similarly, a stain in a can also has a life (shelf life). Some will last longer than others.

The stain manufacturers usually mention the expiry date of their product on the can. It is usually several years for a sealed can. But if you open it and close the leftover in that same can, it may not live the same life.

So how will you ensure the stain is still good to use? There could be several ways to check the usability. We are here to help you guide how to check the content's usability and what you should do if it goes bad.

Finding the Shelf Life of Your Wood Stain

Whether you buy stains from a conventional store or online, it's always good to check the product's life. The best way to check stains' life (and other details) is to use the product's technical data sheet (TDS). It's a handy data sheet that provides a list of details about the product, including its shelf life.

Manufacturers usually suggest a 3-year shelf life. However, the product may go beyond this life. Some stain types can live longer than others. For example, this Gel Topcoat from General Finishes has a shelf life of up to 5 years. Not all companies provide expiry life in the TDS. This stain for interior and exterior wood from Old Masters has no expiry date. But it must have one.
If you have a can of sealed stain with an expired date in your basement or garage, you don't necessarily have to through it away. You may want to open the seal and check for the content inside.

How to Tell if the Stain is Bad?

One way of telling if the stain is bad or not is by checking its expiry date. If the content's date has already passed the deadline, it's time to open the can and check for quality.

Check the texture

After opening the can, check if there is a change in texture. The good content should still be in liquid form. If you have a Gel stain, check if it's still in a pudding-like texture.

If the stain has separated, turned stringy, or dried up, it is in no good condition, and you may get rid of it.

Smell

Oil-based stains have a wood-like smell, while water-based stains should be strong. If the products don't give their natural smell, it's time to dispose of them.

If you are a newbie, you may not judge the stain quality based on its smell. So you may have to look for other factors.

Dry time

If you're still unsure if the stain is good or bad, you may test it on a wood piece. Mix the content with a stir stick, apply it on the wooden slab with a brush, leave it on for five to ten minutes, wipe off any excess content, and let it soak in for 24 hours.

Check the wood the next day. Is it dry or still wet? If the stain still comes off on your hand, it isn't good to use anymore. It's time to get rid of it.

However, if the stain is dry, you may apply it on the fence, deck, dock, or any other project.

How to Make it Long-lasting?

Unopened stain can outlive their expiry date. Similarly, you can extend the stain life of an opened stain can. Follow the tips below; your stain can give you extended shelf life.

How to Get Rid of the Bad Wood Stain?

Wood stains aren't good for the environment. They contain volatile and toxic chemicals. Don't throw away the can or the remaining content in your drain or garbage can.

If the stain has gone bad, go to any nearby hazardous waste disposal facility and hand them the can or waste it as instructed.

The Best Wood Stains

While the wood staining company near you may give a different list of the best wood stains, we have three of the best products for you.

Stain and Seal Experts

This company has all great products. They have beautiful stains that have high quality oil and a lot of pigments (the most) in them that last and low VOC's. It's very easy to apply and is a stain and sealer all in.

Wood Defender

This company also has good stains and is very easy to apply. The stain is a stain and sealer all in one as well. They have the second most pigments in their stain.

Ready Seal Exterior Wood Stain

The company makes great colors that look good they just don't last as long as the other two companies do (don't have as many pigments).

The Bottom Line

Knowing the lifespan of wood stains is one thing but it doesn't give you everything about its life. As said earlier, the wood stain life is highly dependent on various factors. Knowing these factors is crucial and will help you choose between the best and the worst products.

If you want to know more about a wood stain or hire an expert team, you may contact Precision Staining and get the best job for your exterior wood.

FAQs

Does wood stain go bad?

Yes, it can go bad. The sealed can have a shelf life of up to 3 years. But if exposed to air or unfavorable conditions, the stain can die sooner than the mentioned shelf life.

Can I use the stain beyond its shelf life?

The stain can outlive its mentioned life if placed in a dark and cold place. But it's always a good idea to test such a stain before applying it to the entire wood.

How to extend the shelf life of stain?

Keep the stain can in a dark, cool area. The best place is to put the can in your garage or basement on the shelf. Make sure the can is sealed air-tight.