Proper use of woods

Wood stains come in many
forms. Selecting the proper type
of wood stain is a matter of
matching the features of each
type to your project.
Film-forming Vs. Penetrating
There are two ways that wood
stains bond to wood, film-
forming stains and penetrating
stains.
Film-forming wood stain forms a
protective layer over the surface
of wood. These wood stains
create a strong, high-gloss finish.
Unfortunately, it can be
expensive and will have to be
stripped from the wood if re-
staining is required.
Penetrating wood stain seeps
into the pores of the wood,
extending protection beyond the
surface. Penetrating wood stains
make great exterior wood stains,
combining color with ultraviolet
and mildew protection.
Oil or Water?
Wood stains are based on two
types of material: oil and water.
Water-based wood stains are
made up of tiny particles of
pigment and resin that bond
tightly to each other as the water
evaporates. Water-based wood
stains are easy to use and clean
up and don't leave strong odors.
Oil-based wood stains chemically
fuse their particles to form a
sheet-like coating that creates a
hard finish. Oil-based wood stain
is easy to work with, and its long
drying time is very forgiving of
mistakes.
Bringing Color to Wood
Wood stains use two methods to
add color: pigment and dye.
Pigment-based wood stains
combine tiny particles of color
with binders that hold the finish
together. Pigment based wood
stains can create striking color
effects but will hide the grain of
the wood.
Dye-based wood stains use semi-
transparent materials to enhance
the color of wood. Dye-based
wood stains are perfect if you're
trying to showcase the grain of
the wood in your project.
Wood Stains For Indoors Or
Out
Wood stains can be formulated
for interior or exterior use.
Interior wood stains typically
need a clear, protective coat
applied after the stain has dried.
Exterior wood stains, on the
other hand, have protective
additives that don't require
additional coats or materials.