Exterior Stains & Finish Products
There is a wide variety of products available for exterior stains and finishes. Outdoor stains maintain the beauty of wood surfaces and protect them from harsh weather, UV rays, and moisture. These exterior finishes can also prevent water damage, reduce cracking, and increase the wood’s longevity. Do it Best carries exterior wood stain, deck stain, linseed oil, and teak care kits. Find out which is the right one for your project.
Deck Stain
Decks withstand more environmental damage than some other exterior house finishes because of their horizontal orientation, which means no water run-off and more susceptibility to moisture and UV damage. Most decks need to be refinished every few years. Spring and fall temperatures are the best for staining.
Deck stains are available in different levels of transparency. A transparent or semi-transparent opacity can be used on a brand-new deck. This allows the wood grain to show through while still providing protection. For older, more weathered decks a more solid stain is recommended to shield against UV damage and provide more coverage. Consider UV resistance, mildew resistance, and color retention to choose the best deck stain for your specific wood type and climate. An oil- or water-based stain can be used on softwoods. An oil-based stain is recommended for hardwoods.
Linseed Oil
Linseed oil is an inexpensive option for treating wood. It provides some water-repellency and light protection but is not as durable as other products. When linseed oil is used for exterior finishes, the appearance is light amber in color with a satin sheen. Linseed oil should be reapplied yearly to maintain color and protection.
Linseed oil comes in two formats: raw and boiled. Raw linseed oil has an extended drying time of days and is fully cured in weeks. Boiled linseed oil is either boiled or contains an additive, significantly reducing drying time.
Teak
Teak is a hardwood often used for outdoor furniture. Teak is strong and has a high oil content which prevents warping in extreme weather. Over time, teak wood will gray in outdoor conditions. Teak wood requires special care to preserve its original look over time. Teak cleaner does not contain harsh acids and does not require rubbing. Teak brightener enhances the natural wood grain and color. Teak oil protects the wood from UV rays and will not chip. Teak oil can be used on woods other than teak and in applications like fences, windows, doors, and furniture.
The options for exterior finishes vary greatly, but the helpful staff at Do it Best can answer any questions to ensure you start your project with the best supplies for the job.