Two books can flaunt the exact same cover, but does this mean the story within is the same? The world of painting is similar. While paint and solid stain may look the same to the naked eye, the inside story is quite different. The first difference is right when you pop open both the cans; the stain will look thinner than paint. Stain usually soaks into the surface, while paint sits on the surface –coloring it
And while both can ‘tick off’ a job, it’s important to know which can work well for different problems and requirements. We’ll like to share applicability, budget, and longevity differences to ensure that the job is not only ticked off but ticked off with utmost value and satisfaction.
Let’s introspect into the chemistry of paint and stain to suit your likes and style.
Look & feel: Which look do you like?
The chemistry of each helps attain different looks. Paints deliver a more refined, smooth look.
Say, you need to paint a wooden deck. It holds a high consistency of pigments and resins. It can fully fill pores in the wood. As a result, cracks are concealed and distinct wood grains appear smoother.
If you’re someone who prefers a more natural look, then stains are a good pick. It partially fills pores in a manner that a thin layer forms on top. While the natural grainy texture will show, the cracks will slightly blur out. Your overall look will be more natural and organic.
Time: How many hours have you got?
In today’s busy world, time is a crucial factor. Paint needs to applied over a primed surface. Whereas, stain usually can be applied with recoats. Basis the surface type, minimum, or no surface preparation entails. Depending on the surface, the stain can be applied without a primer. This reduces hours on the clock.
Let’s talk about money
Paints are slightly more expensive as they factor in preservative and primer costs too.
Stains per gallon are more economical as some already have an in-built preservative. With regard to maintenance, they can resist peeling and cracking if applied by experts with industry experience.
Busting the myths to account for re-coating costs.
The biggest misconception of all time is that ‘stains don’t need re-doing’. Maintenance is necessary for just about everything in life: from electronics, hair, skin to stains. These too need to be re-coated. While it doesn’t chip or peel often, re-coating is advised. This helps provide more protection to wooden surfaces as the moisture escapes.
(If) Points to note
- (If) the surface is a super absorbent type, then it will require more stain that usual. So, costs can tend to marginally shoot up in such scenarios.
If you are in Westchester NY or Fairfield CT and would like an estimate for a painting or staining service; we would love to guide you and offer a comfortable and result-oriented experience.
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