Oil and water-based stains each possess unique qualities, benefits and potential setbacks that make them applicable to a range of surfaces. However, knowing which stain to use for your project can be difficult, especially if you don’t have prior experience with or knowledge of the two choices.
In this article, we will investigate the crucial differences between these two stain types — including their makeup, performance levels, ease of application, and compatibility with various types of wood to help you make the best decision for your upcoming project.
What is the Purpose of Stains?
Stains are used in painting for a variety of purposes, including:
Protection: Staining your wood helps to protect it from external elements, such as water and sunlight.
Enhance the color of the wood: Wood stain can be used to completely alter the hue of wood products or to bring out natural colors.
To create a specific look or feel: Whether your desired style is classic, modern or rustic, you can achieve it with the help of wood stain.
How to Choose Between Water and Oil-Based Stains?
Consider the Type of Wood
The porosity of wood affects the finished look of a stain in the following ways:
Porous woods will absorb more stain than non-porous woods.
Porous woods will also tend to show the grain more than non-porous woods.
Non-porous woods will not absorb as much stain, so you can use a heavier coat of stain without worrying about it soaking through.
For example, oak, maple and walnut are not very porous while pine and fir are porous.
Usage — Exterior or Interior
The following factors help determine whether to use an oil-based or water-based stain on an exterior project:
Weather conditions: Water-based stains are more susceptible to damage from sunlight, rain and wind than oil-based stains. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, you should use an oil-based stain.
Type of wood: Some woods, such as pine and fir are more prone to rot and mildew than others. These wood products are better protected with an oil-based finish.
Desired finish. Oil-based stains will give you a darker, more opaque finish than water-based stains. If you want your wood to have a natural look, you should use a water-based stain.
Color Desires
The color of the stain you choose can affect the choice between an oil-based stain and a water-based stain. Oil-based stains can be mixed to create a wide range of custom colors.
Level of Protection
When selecting between an oil-based stain or a water-based stain, the level of protection required plays a crucial role. Oil-based stains offer superior coverage against aspects like sunlight and moisture compared to their water-based equivalents. However, they also take longer to dry — up to 24 hours as opposed to 4 hours with water-based products.