Southern Stain Magalog

F E A T U R E
Top 5 Reasons
Why Water
Based is Best
W A T E R B A S E D S T A I N & V A R N I S H V S .
What is the difference between oil based and water
based stain and varnish? It is a common question
that is met with frustration and a misconception -
that oil based stain and varnish is superior.
We are setting the record straight.
So first things first, what is the difference between
water based stain, oil based stain and stain and
varnish?
Both oil based and water based stain work by
absorbing into raw timber like a sponge. Stain
enhances the grain of the timber and provides
colour, warmth and richness.
Water based stain is a mixture of water and
pigment, when it's applied to wood, the water
evaporates, leaving the coloured pigment behind. .
Oil-based stain allows for more workable time
however has considerably longer dry times, has a
strong odour and requires mineral turps to clean
residue.
Stain alone does not protect or add shine to the
timber.
O I L B A S E D S T A I N
That's where water based stain and varnish comes
in to play. Water based stain and varnish adds
colour and a protective film to the timber at the
same time. This means that as the stain absorbs
into the timber so does the varnish. This adds
additional protection without the risks of peeling
off with wear and tear as a stand alone oil varnish
does.
Which lasts longer?
Oil based or water based stain and varnish? While
you may have heard from your uncles mate that
has been a builder for 48 years that oil based stain
lasts longer the truth is that this is an old school
belief that is simply outdated.
In fact, water based stand is more durable and
lasts longer than oil based stain and varnish as it
represents newer technology. Water based stain
will stand the test of time that oil based simply
can't compete with.
P O L I S H E D M A G A Z I N E | P G 8 .