How Does a Does a Stain Set?

Using Stains

Applying stains is done popularly on two surfaces--wood and concrete. When a stain is applied correctly to a wooden surface or a concrete surface, an old and worn out surface will soon look as good as new.

Using Stains for Wood

Setting a stain on a wooden surface depends on the purpose of the wooden surface. Stains are applied to furniture and to the surfaces of logs in that great all-American shelter, the log cabin. Stains that are applied to furniture set quickly in the matter of minutes depending on the porosity of the wood with which the furniture is made. Typically, stains set best on clean surfaces, which is why it is important to clean by pressure brushing or washing the surface. Stains are absorbed easily by clean wood with no interference by foreign matter in the wood. Staining furniture can be easily done using a brush or a sprayer. Fast-drying stains don't set easily if exposed to heat or kept in bright sunlight. Slow-drying wood stains don't set well in wet or cold conditions. A second coat applied after the first coat is set, helps portions of the wood that had not absorbed stains during the first coat absorb the stain the second time around ensuring an even finish.

Staining a log home requires a heavy-duty weather proof stain that will prevent weather erosion of the logs. This stain is usually sprayed on after cleaning the surface of the logs. These stains set between 2 to 7 days, depending on the weather conditions and the type of timber used. If you are staining an old log home, you must make sure that the old stain is completely removed before applying the stain. Seasoned wood absorbs stain better that green timber. The pace of the stain setting often depends on the type of tree from which the timber is obtained. Back brushing the wood after applying the stain helps the wood to absorb the stain faster and the stain to set better.

Using Stains for Concrete

Applying concrete stain will make your old and well-worn sidewalk, driveway or patio look as good as new. There are two types of concrete stain: acrylic stains and acid stains. The surface of the concrete as in the case of wood should be clean to absorb the stain better. To check for cleanliness, spraying water should be the first step. If the concrete absorbs the water, it is ready to absorb stain. Experts say that concrete stain sets best if applied with a non-metallic sprayer. Acid stains set by reacting with the components in the concrete which is a composite substance. They are usually translucent, and once they are set, show the imperfections in the concrete adding to the uniqueness of the surface. Acrylic stains are water based and cling to the components of concrete. The finish is even when you use an acrylic stain and masks all imperfections. Concrete stains are usually quick-setting stains.

Applying a stain offers both a decoration and protection for the surface. It is the inexpensive method of making old and worn-looking surfaces as good as new.