Like every part of your home, outdoor decks, fences, and other wooden structures need to be protected and maintained on an ongoing basis. Stains and preservatives are essential in keeping exterior wooden surfaces looking their best, and when applied properly, can also drastically increase their lifespan.
Intro to Exterior Stains Vs. Preservatives
Many homeowners are aware that staining and/or sealing should be part of their long-term maintenance routine, but may not be certain of the differences between these products or when and how to apply them for maximum impact. At STAR Building Materials in Winnipeg, we offer an extensive range of exterior stains and preservatives and are always available to help you select the best option for your needs.
Still have further questions after reading the information below? Come down to our store to speak with a knowledgeable STAR team member and get started caring for and beautifying your property with a high-quality sealant, stain…or both!
Choosing the Right Finish for Your Project
Though the terms stain and preservative may sometimes be used interchangeably, there are definite differences between these two categories of products. Both are designed to protect and enhance the aesthetics of exterior wood surfaces, but they do so in their own specific ways:
Preservatives/Sealers
Also known as sealers, exterior wood preservatives are usually clear or transparent, bringing out the natural colour and grain of wooden surfaces. While oil-based and water-based sealers soak into the wood, resin-based sealers bond with its top layer only (e.g., shellac, lacquer, varnish).
Wood sealers offer superior moisture protection and are an excellent defence against rot, mould, fungus, and mildew. They usually offer very little in the way of UV protection so sealed wood may still be prone to fading and/or cracking. Wood sealant products usually need to be applied annually.
Stains
Stains are typically pigmented and absorbed deeply into wooden surfaces. Offering superior UV protection as well as a defence against insects, pests, and rot, unique wood stain colours can also enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of your deck and property.
Exterior wood stains are available in a range of opacities, with more opaque stains generally providing greater UV protection. They tend to be more expensive than wood preservatives, but also longer-lasting. Wood stains need to be applied approximately every 3-5 years, depending on their exposure to the elements.
Weather Protection: Waterproofing and UV Resistance
Both sealants and stains offer weather protection for exterior wooden surfaces. While sealers tend to provide superior waterproofing outcomes, stains offer a greater amount of protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays as well as comprehensive and long-lasting protection overall.
Application Techniques for Long-Lasting Results
No matter whether you’re applying sealer or stain, it’s important to properly clean and repair wooden surfaces before treatment. While sealers are generally simple and straightforward to apply, staining requires more planning, technique, and finesse to create a professional-looking finish. Speak with a STAR team member to learn more about the tools, safety equipment, and strategies recommended for the particular stain you’re planning to apply.
Maintaining Your Stained Surface
Whether you’re giving your fence a facelift or weatherproofing outdoor furniture, the proper maintenance of stained and sealed surfaces is paramount. Gently clean stained and sealed surfaces as needed with a soft rag or brush and a mild detergent solution. Reapply sealant and/or stain as needed or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Should I Stain or Seal?
Ultimately, the decision to stain or seal depends on the type of wooden surface you are protecting, its exposure to the elements, your budget and maintenance goals, and your personal aesthetic preferences. In some cases, homeowners choose to stain and then seal to reap the maximum benefits of both processes.
At STAR Building Materials in Winnipeg, we’re ready and willing to assist you with all your exterior stain and preservative questions. Visit us today to learn more and get your project started!