Wood building materials are extremely beautiful, but are vulnerable to wear. That’s why so many homeowners choose to apply a stain to lumber fences and decks. However, there are some benefits of skipping this step in the wood maintenance process. This overview of stained wood aging can help you determine which look is right for your home.
- Stain Basics: Stains are added to lumber building materials as a form of protection from the elements. Decks and fences are constantly exposed to UV rays and moisture, so visible wear from this intense weather is inevitable. Stains work by seeping into the wood’s surface layer—solvents within the stain, typically silicon or petroleum-based chemicals, dry and create a permanent barrier around the wood.
- Long-Term Looks: Exposure to the elements can cause wood building materials to change in their appearance. The colors of stained wood are more likely to remain the same over the course of years, but homeowners with unstained wood will observe a natural transition. Eventually, dark and tan brown colors will transform into a faded grey. Many homeowners are against this color change and invest in high-quality stains to prevent the shift. Others enjoy the stately looks of grey wood.
- Customer Options: Homeowners looking to incorporate the look of unstained aged wood will need to invest in another form of moisture protection. Thankfully, there are numerous specialty stains and finishes available. Clear and semi-transparent finishes are designed to highlight the original color of the wood, or to seal faded wood. Ask a lumber and decking professional for tips on choosing the perfect sealing option for your wood fence or deck.
J & W Lumber deals in both stained and unstained wood materials. Contact us at (760) 741-8776 if you’ve got questions about finding the perfect finish for your fence or deck. We’re happy to lend our expertise to San Diego-area residents.