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Wood finishes.

Article Excerpt
Wood Sealer/Wood Conditioner

Wood sealer is used on softwoods to help tame wild grain patterns and to even up stain absorbency. The sealer penetrates the wood, which allows a more even color appearance and grain pattern.

Wood Stains

There are two major types of wood stains: semi-transparent and solid-color (opaque). Semitransparent stains can be applied over bare wood or wood previously coated by a semi-transparent stain (but not sealed). Solid-color stains can be applied over bare wood and previously stained surfaces--and even over painted surfaces that are in sound condition.

The difference between the two types is: Semitransparent stains impart color, but the texture and the natural grain of the wood continues to show through; while on solid-color stains, the texture still shows through, but not the grain.

Exterior stains are used primarily on wood siding and shingles, decks, outdoor structures and furniture. They are available in latex and oil based formulas. Oil-based stains penetrate the wood, and they erode with weathering. Latex stains do not typically fade as rapidly. When staining exterior wood decks, semi-transparent oil-based stains are generally a better choice. Solid-color stains are better for decks with badly weathered wood.

Because of their excellent adhesion properties, latex stains are often recommended for surfaces that were previously stained or painted with oil-based products. Latex is also recommended for...