Not all stains are bad – especially in the world of painting! Using a stain can make a big difference on a deck or cabinet, for instance. The challenge is in picking the color and type, so we’re here to help. Here are a few things to keep in mind when picking the right stain for you.
Color and wood type
The color of stain heavily relies on your specific type of wood. The saturation of the wood is quite different across the spectrum. Some woods already have a naturally dark hue, so picking a lighter stain wouldn’t make much of a difference. Surprisingly, not all wood needs staining. Rare woods are not advised to be stained because of their natural color. For example, mahogany is known for its dark color and high levels of natural oils.
Think about the lights
Contrary to the name, staining doesn’t last. The sun can fade or can even darken stains. Your deck will be subject to a lot of light, so you may want to pick a stain that is a few coats lighter than your preferred color. Even the cabinets in your kitchen will catch light piercing through the windows.
All about the stains
Not all stains work the same. They react differently depending on the wood you are using. Varnish stains are a non-pigmented, inexpensive paint that is normally used on the more hidden spots of wood because it can look cheap. Be careful. It takes a long time to dry, so dust may collect on it before fully drying. NGR stains are best for hardwoods, which are often used for decks and fencing. Polar and pine wood is lighter and would best be used with pigmented oil stains. This type of stain doesn’t work well with hard woods. If you are looking for an eco-friendly finish, it would be best to go with a water base. This replaces a normal thinner with water.
Don’t let your stain become a pain. Contact Texas Professional Painting today!
