The Guide - Using Stains
This section contains general information on stains and
preservatives, and their uses. Most exterior stains contain
mildewcide to help resist the growth of mildew. The greatest thing
about stains is they never crack or peel, which reduces the
surface preparation work needed for restaining.
Exterior Clear Water Repelling Stains and Preservatives
Exterior clear water repelling stains and preservatives are made
of oils, paraffin wax, and silicates, which provide hardening, to
protect against moisture and provide a natural wood finish.
Initially, they have a relatively short life expectancy, and
depending on weathering conditions, should be applied every six
months to two years. Water repelling stains and preservatives
allow moisture to enter and exit wood while the oils extend the
life of the wood. The term “sealer,” sometimes used to describe
water repelling stains and preservatives, do not allow moisture to
enter and exit wood surfaces because they seal surfaces. Most
water repelling stains and preservatives contain a mildewcide to
resist the growth of mildew. All purpose water repellents and
sealers should never be used on wood surfaces because they are
designed more for masonry.
Exterior Semitransparent Stains
Exterior semitransparent stains contain the same characteristics
as water repelling stains, but contain a small amount of colour
that allows the grain of the wood to show through. These stains
are recommended for exterior wood siding and decks.
Exterior Solid colour Stains
Exterior solid colour stains have the same characteristics as
Semitransparent Stains and cover wood surfaces with a variety of
colours. They provide a painted look finish while allowing the
texture of the wood surface to come through. These stains can be
used on siding and deck railings. Priming new wood surfaces with
an alkyd based stain primer or oil stain will greatly enhance the
durability of any exterior solid colour staining project.
Exterior Bleaching and Weathering Stains
Exterior bleaching and weathering stains are similar to clear
water repelling stains, except they allow wood surfaces to keep a
weathered and gray look while acting as a water repellent. These
stains can be recoated with the clear water repelling stains and
preservatives.
Interior Stains
Interior stains have many of the same characteristics as
penetrating exterior stains, except they are primarily used to
give depth and clarity to the characteristics of interior wood
surfaces. These stains come in a variety of colours and should be
coated with at least two coats of a clear polyurethane or varnish.
A clear polyurethane or varnish will provide protection from
abrasions, water, food, and other common elements.
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