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Friday 14 October 2016

Wood Stain Or Paint? - That's The Question!

Wood stains are widely used to decorate and protect wood surfaces and to prevent yellowing caused by exposure to Ultra Violet (UV) radiation.

Wood staining is used to enhance the natural beauty, texture and grain character of wood and is a premium quality, alternative finish to more expensive hardwoods and block paints. It will also conceal any minor wood defects, or blemishes that may exist.

Polmac Natural Woodstain Finishes

Wood stains allow the grain character and texture of the wood to be preserved and enhanced, because the liquid stain flows into the natural pores and grooves taking the shape of the wood itself.

Wood stains raise and make the wood grain more pronounced, so it's advisable to sand the surface first, using multiple grades of sandpaper, to remove any scratches and blemishes and to provide a smooth even finish.

Most wood stains are transparent or semi-transparent and are used to soften, or change the colour of wood, leaving the surface texture still visible. However, semi-opaque wood stains which mask the wood completely are also available.

Wood stains are supplied in a variety of vibrant colours and natural wood finishes, adding a beautiful subtle quality to wood.

Wood stains and paints are similar because they add richness and colour to wood but there are differences in look, character and application.

Painting leaves a thin film on the wood, which helps to hide more pronounced scratches and blemishes. Consequently there is no need to sand the wood.

Block Colour Paints

Using a primer allows the uniform absorption of the paint, thus providing an even finish across the entire surface of the wood. The more coats of paint that are applied the more it masks the wood underneath.

Wood stains are applied directly to the wood using a soft rag cloth, sponge, brush or sponge roller, wheras pint is chiefly applied with soft brush and roller.

Water based wood stains do not protect the wood, so it's a good idea to add a coat of clear lacquer as a final finishing coat. However, proprietary wood stains with the lacquer already mixed in are also available, so a final coat is unnecessary!


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