Information on Hardwood Floor Stains

Hardwood floor stains vary in chemical makeup, color and application ability. They have been used throughout the ages in various capacities, such as interior hardwoods and exterior hardwoods, such as mahogany decks. It is important to make the right selection when choosing hardwood floor stains. Although your local paint store clerk can and will help you with these selections, there is a certain amount of knowledge that you should bring with you to the store as an insurance policy.

Oil- or Water-Based

All stains come with either water or oil as its main ingredient. Water-based stains are easy to clean up from your hands and from brushes. Oil-based stains must be cleaned up using paint thinner and take longer to dry; however, they do offer a more durable coat of stain in the long run.

Exterior

Exterior stains, with the exception of a few circumstances (an area inside that may be exposed to moisture), should be kept outdoors. Outdoor hardwoods such as mahogany and the tropical ipe are candidates for exterior stains, water- or oil-based. If you are applying a varnish or finish over the top of any stain, always keep the finish and the stain the same--oil with oil and water with water.

Interior

Interior hardwood stains can never be used outdoors. Water-based interior stain is the best to use indoors because of its ease of use. Cleanup is easier and the smell isn't as overwhelming. However, for a greater means of durability and shine, oil-based is a good choice; water-based is good, but oil is superior.

References

• Stain information
• Interior and exterior stains

Resources

• More information on stains