Staining is a crucial step when finishing most woodworking projects as it determines the appearances of the workpiece and also affects the durability. Oil-based stains tend to penetrate deeper than the water-based ones and also leave behind a richer and more vivid color that is easy to refresh by applying another coat. Water-based stains dry faster than oil-based ones. The excellent surface adhesion that the oil-stains provide helps to resist peeling, and it makes these some of the longest lasting stain types. Oil and water-based stains provide different levels of protection and coverage depending on factors such as type of wood, previous wood treatment, weather exposure, etc. A healthy respect for nature: All Storm System products are engineered with the environment in mind and are OTC/VOC compliant. Water based stains, which include acrylic stains, are more durable and provide … At the same time, you can rest assured because you do not have to maintain it the same way as a water-based alternative. Water Based Deck Stains Water based wood stains will normally adhere better to a surface that has formerly been painted or stained with an oil based stain. Is an oil-based stain better than a water-based stain… Water-Based Exterior Stains Wood stain falls into three different formula types: water-based, oil-based and hybrid stains. Water-Based Stains Deliver Longer-Lasting Color. Since it dries slower than water-based, this particular process will provide you much better finish and aid you in additional maintenance that will look amazing. Ask below in our comment area. When choosing a stain for your outdoor wood project, there are several factors to consider in choosing the kind that is best suited for your needs. Water-based stains are ideal for use under water-based finishes as they will not bond well with the oil-based ones. Oil-based stains tend to penetrate deeper than the water-based ones and also leave behind a richer and more vivid color that is easy to refresh by applying another coat. Oil-based wood stains are the most commonly used and they are what comes to may woodworkers mind when they think of wood stain. My entrepreneurial journey started in 2006, when I dropped out of university. The downside is oil based stain products offer very few color choices, whereas water based stain offer nearly eighty different color choices. Oil-based deck stains tend to work better in hot or cold extremes, and with most woods. Unlike paint, which remains on the surface, deck stains are designed to penetrate the wood, protecting it from the elements. ©2014 California Paints. However, it is still possible to use them on oil-based finishes if you give them enough time to dry first. If you wish to change from a water-based to oil-based deck stain, or vice versa, here are some suggestions. Qualities of Water Based Stains & Sealers: Wood Breathability – Oil Stains and Sealers penetrates your wood deeper than water which provides for a more durable coating but if moisture is present, it can … For another, they can be used without the need for ventilation… I have a large pressure treated deck that needs to be resealed (I am not really fond of stain/sealers). All right reserved. Below we’ve provided some context for your important decision of using oil-based stains versus water-based stains. -Acid Stain vs. Water Based Stain- There are mainly two types of concrete stains, acid based and water based. Both are quite useful stains as they protect and enhance the appearance of the workpiece. I wanted to work with my hands, to build things. Water-Based Stain Advantages: When choosing a stain to apply to your wood, it is important to first identify the correct stain base. Open the Door to a World of Opportunities with Exclusive MasterWorks Growth-Driving Programs, Keep its color for a longer period of time, Easier cleanup (only requires soap and water), Requires more time to dry which allows for a more even finish. Generally, water based stains require a bit of sanding after application, as the water raises the wood grain some. Although it may be difficult to establish what the previous layer is, it will be helpful in your choice of oil-based vs. water-based stains. They also hold the ability to better preserve the natural color of the wood – plus oil based stains have a way of looking more natural than water-based stains. Oil Based vs Water Based Stain. If the previous layer is oil-based, a water-based stain will adhere better and should be used. I hope to pass some knowledge and expertise. While there are many types of wood stains out there, most woodworkers will always find themselves in a situation where they have to pick between the water-based and oil-based stains. Ultimately the choice between water-based and oil-based stains is all up to a woodworker’s preference. I love everything about woodworking and have been building stuff for over 20 years of my life. Approximately 90% of this deck was replaced in 2018 and sealed with a clear sealant but I do not know whether it was oil or water based (the contractor believes it was a Thompson’s.product but not sure if it was oil or water based… The Difference Between Water-based and Oil-based Stain Here’s a quick checklist when deciding which stain to use. If the wood you are intending to stain is covered in a previous coating of paint or stain, certain steps should be taken in order to achieve a new protectant, even layer. I am not a fan of gel stains, too messy … When you use an oil stain it is not easily penetrated. When staining any exterior wood element such as a fence, deck, siding, or garden bridge, you can choose between either an oil-based or latex-based stain. Solid-color stains mimic the appearance of the flat, oil-based paints used since colonial times. Sign up now to receive updates about all the latest in woodworking PLUS get invited to exclusive tool giveaways... WoodworkingToolkit.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising programdesigned to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. Sponsored by Sashco Sealants Which stain is best? All Rights Reserved. In the debate between oil-based stains vs. water-based stains, if you are coating a wood that has a natural resistance to rotting, a water-based stain is the better option. Exterior stains are water based (sometimes called acrylic), oil based (sometimes called alkyd) or oil modified. In fact, some oil-based stains encourage mildew, so be careful if you're considering purchasing an oil-based stain. Acid stains are by far the best looking. Water-based stains work well on woods that have natural oil, or wood that has previously been stain with oil-based products… Technological advancements have been made to improve how water based stain interacts with wood to create a more vibrant color so that it can compete with its counterpart. Any questions? This is because it is more durable than a water-base and will provide a more complete protective layer against these elements. A penetrating, water-based stain that opens up a world of possibilities with 200+ tintable color options to hide more wood grain while maintaining the … And if you’re holding a can in your hand wondering if it’s oil based vs water based stain… One of the easiest ways to identify oil-based stain and also what sets them apart from the water-based types is the fact that they use mineral spirits as a thinning and clean-up agent. Water-based stains have more color options and dry within a couple of hours, … Oil Based Stain & Sealer vs Water Based. If you are dealing with wood with a natural resistance to rotting such as cedar and cypress, a water-based stain is the best option. Previous Wood Treatment. There is not too much difference in the effect or depth each product has on wood. Water-based stains are more mildew resistant than oil-based stains. A water based stain will also retain its color … Oil-Based vs. Water-Based. And they are also more environmentally friendly than the oil-based stains since they will not emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). And this is more so when working on large pieces. Oil based deck stains have been around longer than their water based counterparts and they last longer, wearing gradually by erosion. Copyright © 2020 WoodworkingToolkit.com. For one thing, they offer a range and intensity of colors that oil-based stains can't begin to offer. Oil vs. Water Stains (Sealers) You want to stain (or seal) your new patio furniture and the first thing you read is that you have to use water based stain. You need to consider the type of wood, previous wood treatment, and weather exposure. The two main stain bases are either oil-based stain or water-based stain and there are certain situations where one is better to use than the other. There are several advantages to using water-based color stains. The brilliant colors associated with water-based stains last longer than those produced by oil-based products. Water-based stains are easy to clean up with soap and water while oils require a solvent based cleaner. Oil-based stain, on the other hand, is great for covering wood that will be exposed to elements like wind, rain, and sunlight as it can withstand the harsh conditions for long. Both have their qualities and drawbacks. Now I mix my background with computers with my first-hand experience with woodworking to provide insights into the tools I like best. Minwax® Wood Finish Water-Based Solid Color Stain. Some examples of this kind of wood are cedar, cypress, and redwood. Naturally, wood loves oil, and oil based stain will create a richer look of wood grain. They also require far less … If you’re shopping for a fence stain that … However, there are certain things that should guide you when making this choice. By treating your wood fence with water-based stains… And you can tell that a stain is water based if it uses water as a thinner and for clean-up. Look for a brand … Storm System is a registered trademark of California Products Corporation. The kind of weather the outdoor wood will be exposed to also plays a factor in determining the best stain-base for your project. You will be able to fr… They dry slower than water-based stains, the slow drying process aids in maintaining a more even finish. When it comes to oil-based stains, you should have in mind that when you decide to use it, you will be able to penetrate the wood with ease which will add the protection when compared with water-based ones. Whether you’re a homeowner, woodworker or DIYer, at some point your going to end up using wood stain. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of the two common stain types is vital in ensuring that you pick the right one for your project. As always, comments are encouraged. Since these stains penetrate deeper into the wooden workpiece and adhere to the surface, they are relatively easier to apply than the water-based ones. Thank you very much for your article. Best Wood Moisture Meters of 2020 – Review & Buying Guide, 5 Best Cordless Tools of 2020 – Review & Buying Guide, 5 Best Strap Wrenches of 2020 – Review & Buying Guide, Top 5 Most Important Carpenter Tools of 2020, 5 Best Pipe Clamps of 2020 – Review & Buying Guide, 5 Best Concrete Grinders of 2020 – Review & Buying Guide, 5 Best Wood Burning Tools & Pyrography Pen Kits of 2020, 5 Best Worm Drive Saws in 2020 – A Complete Buyer’s Guide. And for nature. For protection against nature. Water-based stains are also the best option for simple woodworking projects that require some quick staining as they tend to dry fast. That can present a problem with window/door detailing. If the wood is going to be in direct exposure to wind, rain, and sunlight, an oil-based stain is the best choice. Buy on Amazon. Read our article for information that sets the record straight when comparing water-based stains with oil-based stains. No wait minute, we meant to say oil based stain… Also, these stains will be the best choice where mold and mildew are a concern as it is extremely resistant to both. Since these … Water-based stains might not be as popular as the oil-based types but they are still handy to have in the workshop, as they can be useful for certain projects. Also, these stains will allow air to move in and out to ensure that the stain does not trap water and cause decay. The organic patterning that an acid stain … If the wood you are intending to stain is covered in a previous coating of … This article should help you decide which is the best choice for your concrete. However, each has some pros and cons and it will be suitable for different situations. These days, however, the best solid-color stains are made with water-based, 100 percent acrylic resins, … These stains will have a linseed oil base or a mixture of linseed with varnish which gives woodworkers plenty of time to wipe off any excess before the stain dries. In case the stain does not come out how you wanted, it is easier to fix the problem when using a water-based stain. These stains are the types that use a water-based finish as the binder and they will replace most of the organic thinner with water. Oil-based stains traditionally been used for exterior elements, but they are messier and smellier than latex-based stains. All you need to do is to clean up the section with water and apply a fresh coat. For the water-based stains, you only need water for thinning. Best Overall: Ready Seal Stain and Sealer. Oil-based stains can result in much … The environment in mind and are OTC/VOC compliant all up to a woodworker ’ preference... 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