If you have timber surfaces inside or outside of your house, you’ll need to treat them with care in order to ensure their longevity. Wood can be an extremely strong and durable material when it’s looked after properly. Luckily, there are some useful products you can use to make your wooden surfaces as healthy and as happy as they can be— now, and well into the future. Varnish and Stain are two of these products, and the following article will help you distinguish between these popular treatments so that you can make the most informed decisions about your wood!
What is a stain?
As the name would suggest, a stain is a substance that will change or enhance the natural colour of your wood. Stains penetrate wood deeply to highlight the grain, intensify existing tones, or change the colour. Wood stains do provide a level of protection from the elements but their primary function is for decorative use, coming in a wide variety of colours. Where extra durability is required use a topcoat treatment in conjunction with a wood stain in order to get the best results, for example, an Extra Durable Wood stain or a varnish.
What is a Varnish?
While a stain deeply penetrates wood, a varnish remains on the outside of your surfaces, forming a protective barrier. Varnish is usually clear and transparent, and it will harden along the outer layer of your wood. Some varnishes do include colour to enhance or alter the wood shade. Varnishes provide wood with additional durability, so they are often used in areas that get plenty of wear and tear. Varnishes come in matt, satin, eggshell and gloss finishes but always be sure to check that your choice is best suited for exterior or interior projects.
Should you be looking at transforming your surfaces contact us for free advice, and a free competitive quotation.