About Penetrating Oil Wood Stain

Oil-based wood stains are formulated to permanently add color to wood by seeping directly into the wood fibers. Indoor formulas are designed to be applied to chairs, tables, cabinetry and other furniture. Outdoor formulas are designed to be applied to decks, fences and outdoor furniture and to resist the effects of sun exposure and weather. Oil based stains are durable and give the wood a longer life.

Outdoor Penetrating Wood Stains

Outdoor penetrating wood stains are wood finishes that are sealers with pigment added to them. Pigments in these products serve dual purposes: they add color to the wood and they help block harmful ultraviolet rays.

Indoor Wood Stains

Indoor wood stains are used to beautify any unfinished or stripped wood furniture, hardwood flooring or trim anywhere in your home. These stains are pigments in an oil base, available in wood-tone colors, formulated to enhance the beauty of the wood.

Applying Outdoor Formuals

Penetrating oil wood stains should be applied only to clean, dry wood. Different brands require different surface preparation procedures, so follow these for the best results. The solid parts of the stain usually settle to the bottom of the can over time, so if the can has been sitting on the store shelf or on a shelf at your home, either have it shaken or stir it well with a stir stick before applying. This ensures that the stain itself is mixed evenly and will give an even finish. Using a pump sprayer is the easiest way to apply penetrating oil wood stains, especially for vertical surfaces, like fences or deck rails. Allow the product to sit on the wood for a while, then remove the excess with a cloth rag. For one-coat applications, let the stain dry for a minimum of 12 hours. For two-coat applications, wait for three hours, lightly recoat, remove the excess after 30 minutes and allow to dry for 12 hours.

Applying Indoor Formuals

Prepare the surface of the wood according to the application instructions on the stain container. Products should be either stirred or shaken to evenly distribute the stain pigments. Shaking or mixing will help ensure a more even color application. For a lighter stain color, leave the stain on the wood for a few minutes, then wipe the excess away with a rag. If you want a darker, richer stained color, leave the stain on the wood surface for up to 15 minutes. These stains are applied with a foam brush, a cloth rag or a foam stain applicator. Because these stains are oil-based, clean-up requires a solvent, like mineral spirits, paint thinner or turpentine. Oil-based stains take a while to dry, so allow for adequate ventilation (especially when stains are applied on wood flooring) and adequate drying time before the wood is sealed with polyurethane, lacquer or another clear wood finish.

Other Stains vs. Oil-Based

There are many different formulated bases of stains. There are water-based stains, wax stains and oil-based stains. Though water and wax stains have their advantages, it is important to keep in mind that water and wax only stain the wood on the surface. Oil soaks deep into the grain of the wood, not only staining it but conditioning it as well. Oil also gives off a rich, warm color that you only get with an oil-based stain.