Do I Need to Stain my Timber Shade?

Staining is applying some finish on a piece of wood to alter its appearance. It could mean changing the colour, enhancing the grain or preserving the wood from damage. If you own a timber garden shade, it’s essential to stain it. Timber is a natural product that is negatively impacted by conditions exposed to it. Hence, it requires regular maintenance to preserve it and keep it in its best shape.

Advantages of Timber staining

Prevents rotting

Timber structures used outdoors like garden sheds or garage sheds are susceptible to decay. Decaying wood may eventually lead to hazards like the collapse of the structure. Decay in timber is brought about by termites, mildew and mould. Decomposing should be avoided right from the construction of the timber shed by staining the wood and re-applying regularly.

Protects Timber from Moisture and Sun

Any entry of water in wood causes more harm than rot. The wood is likely to break if any of the water freezes inside the wood, destroying the structure. Sunlight also causes discolouration of the wood. Stained timber overcomes such threats of humidity and sunlight.

Preservation of its Beauty

Wood is naturally attractive. Staining wood helps preserve its natural look while at the same time, protecting it. Wood stain is available in different colours and tints. Therefore, customization can easily be achieved.

Easy to Apply and Maintain

When compared to painting, staining is simple to apply and maintain. Staining does not necessarily require a primer, thus, minimizing the time needed to stain a structure.

Qualities of Wood Stain

Transparent – mostly used on wood that naturally has a beautiful grain. The grain remains with a sparkle after the stain dye dries.
Semi-Solid – This kind of stain dry’s semi-opaque. It preserves some appearances of the wood grain but foregrounds the colouration.
Solid – This is an opaque, lighter form of paint. It dries opaque obscuring the wood grain.
Natural dye (Pigment) – this kind of stain produces a variety of colours.
Synthetic dye (Pigment) –This stain is more uniform and simpler to apply compared to the natural dye.
Petroleum-based solvents– the solvents in this stain mix evenly; however, they evaporate and become toxic gas. Hence, they must be handled with great care.
Nontoxic solvents – They are much safer for human and environment but are harder to apply

Types of Wood Stains

Oil Stain

These are the most commonly used wood stain. They produce an even texture of stain hence preferable for large projects.

Varnish

Varnish stain contains a binder known as polyurethane varnish instead of oil. Its unique quality is that it dries hard. Varnish stains are generally preferred for small scale projects.

Water-Based Stain

Water-based stains are more natural making them safe for use without irritating the eyes, skin or windpipe even after a long period of use.

Gel Stain

Gel stains are oily with a thick consistency of mayonnaise nature. You need perfect painting skills to apply because they can be messy.

Lacquer Finish

Lacquer finish contains a fast-drying varnish with ketones and xylene.

Water-Soluble Dye Stain

This stain is sold in powder form. They come in a variety of colours and are easy to work with.

Metalized Dye Stain

Metalized dye stain is known to resist fading and dries fast when applied.

Conclusion

Wood staining is an old age practice dating many centuries ago. Wood staining was achieved by dipping tobacco in ammonia and water or immersing iron nails in vinegar for several days.