Question 1

1. What’s the difference between wood stain and paint?

Accepted Answer

Wood stain penetrates the timber, soaking into the surface to colour (stain) the wood while leaving the natural grain visible. It’s typically thinner than paint and doesn’t form a surface film. Paint, on the other hand, forms a layer on top of the wood, usually covering the grain entirely. This makes stain better suited for projects where you want the wood texture to remain visible, especially for things like cladding, decking, or bespoke joinery.

Question 2

2. Can wood stain be used on previously painted surfaces?

Accepted Answer

No, wood stain needs to absorb into the timber to work effectively. Painted surfaces prevent this absorption, leading to poor adhesion and an uneven finish. If you're working with previously coated wood, the surface must be stripped back to bare timber using sanding or chemical removers. Once the wood is clean and dry, stain can be applied evenly, allowing for proper bonding and a longer-lasting result.

Question 3

3. Is wood stain suitable for outdoor use?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but only if you're using a product labelled as exterior wood stain. These formulations are designed to protect timber from moisture, UV exposure, and biological decay. They often include preservatives and binders to extend durability in harsh conditions. When applying exterior stain, make sure the wood is clean, dry, and free from previous coatings, and follow manufacturer guidelines for best results in outdoor environments.

Wood stain

Cuprinol Garden Furniture Natural Enhancing Teak Oil Clear 1ltr

Ronseal 10 Year Exterior Satin Woodstain 750ml Natural Oak

Ronseal Trade 750ml 10 Year Woodstain Walnut

V33 High performance Clear UV resistant Decking Wood oil, 2.5L

Ronseal Ultimate Protection 2.5Ltr Willow Decking Paint

Sadolin Superdec Super White 1L

Ronseal 10 Year Woodstain Natural Oak 2.5ltr

Sadolin Classic All Purpose Woodstain 2.5l - Teak

Bedec Barn Paint Satin Black 5L

Sadolin Classic Wood Protection 1 Litre Teak

4trade Boiled Linseed Oil 500ml

Sadolin Classic Wood Protection Teak 2.5L

Sadolin Extra Durable Woodstain 2.5L Jacobean Walnut

Sadolin Classic Wood Protection 2.5L Jacobean Walnut

Sadolin Extra Durable Woodstain 2.5 Litres Light Oak

Sadolin Classic Wood Protection 2.5L Light Oak

Sadolin Classic Wood Protection 2.5 Litres Mahogany

Sadolin Extra Durable Woodstain 1L Redwood

Sadolin Extra Durable Woodstain 1L Natural

Bedec Barn Paint Matt Black 2.5L

Bedec Barn Paint Matt Black 5L

Cuprinol Ultimate Garden Wood Preserver Autumn Brown 4L

Ronseal Yacht Varnish Satin Clear 2.5ltr

Ronseal Trade 10 Year Woodstain Satin Dark Oak 750ml

Ronseal Trade 10 Year Woodstain Satin Walnut 2.5ltr

Ronseal Trade 10 Year Woodstain Satin Teak 2.5ltr

Osmo Polyx Hard Wax Oil Effect Raw Transparent 750ml

Osmo UV Protection Oil Extra Satin Clear 750ml

Osmo UV Protection Oil Extra Satin Clear 2.5ltr

Bird Brand Raw Linseed Oil 500ml

Ronseal 10 Year Exterior Satin Woodstain 750ml Deep Mahogany

Ronseal Trade 750ml 10 Year Woodstain Deep Mahogany

Ronseal Diamond hard Clear Matt Wood varnish, 250ml

Ronseal Diamond hard Clear Satin Wood varnish, 250ml

Osmo Polyx Original Hardwax Oil Clear Matt 2.5L

Osmo Polyx Hardwax Oil Tint White 2.5L

Ronseal 10 Year Woodstain Deep Mahogany 2.5ltr

Sadolin Extra Durable Woodstain 2.5l - African Walnut

Sadolin Extra Durable Woodstain 2.5l - Burma Teak

Sadolin Extra Durable Woodstain 2.5l - Dark Palisander