Stain offers mainly two advantages: it protects exposed surface and it also creates a visual appeal. For years, stains have been produced in two forms- semi-transparent and solid stain. It is really important to understand which stain is the best for a particular project. Each of the stains
offers different staining methods and they both are suitable for use in a range of projects. The main difference between the solid and semi-transparent stain is that the solid stain is non-penetrating and the other one is penetrating.
There could be a number of reasons why you should use each variety, but the requirements of your projects should influence your decision. To understand the perfect stain type for your next project, you should actually understand the difference between these two types of stains.
Semi-Transparent Stain:
The semi-transparent stain is very popular because they help to preserve the wood grain effect of any wooden furniture or exterior wooden surface. This is the reason why semi-transparent stain is often suitable for decking or exterior surface that will be outside permanently. As these types of stains contain an anti-fungal element, it also helps to prevent mold and algae that grows on the exterior surface. Semi-transparent stain actually penetrates the wood and creates a bond with the fibers. This makes it a better protective stain against mold and algae.
Homeowners actually use semi-transparent stain on a decking area or when they want to apply stain on a wooden surface while keeping the basic texture and grain of the natural product. Also, you can use semi-transparent stain to wooden furniture, door, window frames and any other wooden surface that you want to leave plain.
Solid Color Stain:
Solid color stains are mainly used as a wood finish, rather than a stain. The solid color stain is non-penetrating. They lay upon the surface of the wooden surface rather than bonding with it. Solid color stain works as a top coat finishes and can prevent the wood from becoming chipped and flaked. Also, solid color stain doesn’t actually contain the anti-fungal agent. As a result, they may not protect wooden surface or items against water as effectively as the semi-transparent stains do.
The solid color stain is suitable for projects in which you wish for a more decorative than functional purpose. For example, you can consider using solid color stain on outdoor furniture where you are not worried to leave the natural grain.