Staining and painting are two viable ways to protect and beautify surfaces, but deciding which one is right for your home or project depends on a number of factors. When it comes to colorizing surfaces painting and staining are two powerful means of creating great looks. Paint offers a more extensive range of colors and can be applied to a wider variety of materials, including ceiling, walls, trim, concrete and masonry. Deciding between paint and stain can seem like a complex task, but it doesn’t have to be. Understanding the pros and cons of each can help you make a decision that leaves you happy with your new look.

What’s the Difference?

Stain works well on wood surfaces, especially those that you want to keep visible. It enhances wood rather than covering it up and gives off a more rugged/wood feel that is ideal if you are going for a natural look. Stain is mostly used on exterior fences, decks, wood ceiling, wood accents/pillars, cabinets, etc. Stain is also less prone to chipping than paint and can usually be applied without needing a primer.

Paint has a wide variety of colors and finishes that can help you create a specific theme or look. It can be used on a number of different surfaces, including drywall, trim, exterior of houses, and concrete floors. There are thousands of different colors to choose from and many suppliers carry different brands and quality products depending on budget.

Which Lasts Longer?

If you’re deciding whether to stain or paint your house, it’s important to know what kind of protection each type offers. Paint can crack, chip, and peel over time as the resin it contains wears away. Stain, on the other hand, is more resistant to these types of damage and will remain on your home for a longer period of time.

Solid stains sit on the surface of wood and absorb into the material, creating a protective layer that doesn’t fade over time. This is why stain typically lasts longer than paint.

If you want to re-stain something that has been painted, we’ll need to chemically or mechanically remove the existing coating before applying the new stain. If we don’t do this, the stain won’t seep into the pores of the wood. This could lead to lap marks and an uneven stain surface. It also means the stain won’t offer as much protection from harsh weather conditions like rain and snow.

Application

House painting is something that you are probably familiar with. It is the process of applying a thick, colored coating over various surfaces. It is often used on wood or concrete surfaces, and it helps to protect them from wear and tear as well as weather conditions. It comes in a wide range of colors, sheens, and textures and can be applied to surfaces that have already been painted (after the proper prep).

Stain, on the other hand, is typically made from natural dyes and pigments, and it can highlight the grain pattern of the wood it is being used on. It also gives a more rugged look, and it can be used to match or complement the existing color of a surface.

Stain is typically less expensive than paint and can be applied directly to the surface without the need for a primer. It also requires fewer coats, and it is less likely to chip or peel.

Color Choices

When painting, there are many options for sheens and color combinations. However, solid stain has a limited selection of colors and cannot be used on surfaces that were previously painted.

When choosing a color for your house stain, it is best to work with a professional that will guide you in the right direction. Stains come in a variety of tones, from neutrals to bold hues that add a fresh and vibrant look to any home.As the weather changes, wood surfaces will expand and contract. If the wood has been stained, this can cause the stain to crack or peel. Stain also fades over time, but can easily be refreshed with a simple application. Paint, on the other hand, requires a primer before application and can be difficult to remove completely.

Choosing the correct professional

Choosing the correct professional is important to get your desired outcome done correctly. It's important to know the specific steps to take when it comes to not only prepping the surfaces correctly but also applying the correct material. There are thousands of options when it comes to both staining and painting, and knowing which one to choose can be difficult. At Guevara Painting & Cleaning Services, we are professionals at House Staining and House Painting. We service all of Austin and surrounding areas including: Liberty Hill, Leander, Cedar Park, Jonestown, Lago Vista, Round Rock, Georgetown, Westlake, Austin, Manor, etc. 
Call us today to discuss your options!