DO YOU HAVE TO FINISH OVER STAINED WOOD?

Whether you have an expensive piece of outdoor furniture, a beautiful wood patio, piece of wood art, or a stunning log home you are going to want to keep the piece protected. While wood can be strong, if not properly protected, the wood can also weather and wear quickly, so protecting your wood project in the right way can be the difference between years of use and enjoyment, and quick fading or cracking.

Finishing Stained Wood

While it may seem like wood stain is enough to protect the wood furniture, log home or deck, it is best to add a layer of wood finish to the project as well. This will help keep your project durable and beautiful for years to come, be it a high-traffic area like a deck or a piece of magnificent art.

Finished Wood Improves Longevity

While the wood stain may darken or dye the wood, or even accent the natural grain of the wood, it offers minimal protection against the regular wear and tear on wood products. Some stains may help prevent moisture from getting into the wood, which may protect against mildew or rot that could cause the wood to crack or split. However, stain does not fully protect against moisture, and if it is the sole finish on a product, it may need to be reapplied more often. When you use a finish on a wood product, like a seal, it seals the pores of the wood. This can help prevent moisture from entering the wood pores, as well as protect against scratches, insects or other pests, and sun or UV ray damage. Adding a finish to stained wood helps preserve the longevity of the wood, including the color and appearance.

Durability of Finished Wood

While the wood stain may darken or dye the wood, or even accent the natural grain of the wood, it offers minimal protection against the regular wear and tear on wood products. Some stains may help prevent moisture from getting into the wood, which may protect against mildew or rot that could cause the wood to crack or split. However, stain does not fully protect against moisture, and if it is the sole finish on a product, it may need to be reapplied more often. When you use a finish on a wood product, like a seal, it seals the pores of the wood. This can help prevent moisture from entering the wood pores, as well as protect against scratches, insects or other pests, and sun or UV ray damage. Adding a finish to stained wood helps preserve the longevity of the wood, including the color and appearance.

Appearance

While the stain is the main contributor to the final appearance of the wood, the finish contributes greatly to the overall final look of a product. Many stains are made with the idea that there will be a finish over top, and this extra clear layer helps highlight the color of the stain. Without the clear topcoat, many stains look dull or unfinished. Additionally, the finish stops the stain from combining with outside materials, such as water, that could alter the appearance of the stain or the wood. There is also something beautiful about a smooth, shining clear topcoat finish that makes a piece look complete and professional.

Tips For Applying Finish

If you have stained a wood deck, furniture or log home, you have already put in a lot of time and energy to make this piece beautiful. Here are a few tips to apply a finish to the wood to finish the piece.

1. Apply thin coats of finish; this will provide a flatter layer that will dry easier.
2. Choose a good quality product. If you need assistance finding the right product for your project, contact our team for help and advice.
3. Practice on a scrap of wood or start with a spot on your wood project that is less visible to hone your technique.
4. After the coat dries, your colors will pop, so if you are worried about the dullness of your project, a finish will help.
5. Allow stain to dry completely before applying the finish on top.
6. Additionally, allow the finish to dry completely, at least a day, before moving or using the wood project.

Applying Finish After Staining Wood

If you are ready to apply finish to your wood project or want to find the perfect stain for your wood deck or log home, stop by Lovitt’s Coating. Our professional team can help you find the best product for your project.