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Protecting outdoor wood with a finish is no easy task. It requires the perfect combination of protection and aesthetics, which can be difficult to achieve. In this expert-researched article, we provide you with all the knowledge needed to select the ideal product for your project from our exclusive list of quality finishes, plus an in-depth buyers’ guide that considers various weather conditions.
Paint is the most effective way to shield wood from two of its biggest enemies: moisture and UV radiation. Of course, no one wants to compromise on the beauty of their gorgeous wooden structures by covering them up with paint. That’s why opting for a wood finish can be an excellent choice if you want your outdoor surfaces to retain their authentic look while also preserving them from rot or discoloration caused due to rain or sun exposure.
When it comes to outdoor wood finishes, there is a myriad of options available. From oil-based and water-based stains to penetrating oils and polyurethane varnish; each type has its own unique benefits that make it perfect for specific projects or types of wood. So no matter what your project entails – you’re sure to find the ideal finish solution.
Exterior oil painting is the simplest and most straightforward of all exterior paints. All it takes is a dabbing motion, allowing it to sit for some time before wiping away any extra residue. Although its quality of protection is minimal, this technique must be applied annually to obtain optimal results. Varnishes, on the other hand, are quite intricate when it comes down to their application; up to 8 coats need cautious brushing upon each layer.
Exterior varnish is a great way to prevent moisture and UV damage, however, it must be reapplied every couple of years in order to stay effective. The most permanent outdoor finish you can find is an epoxy sealer with an exterior wood finish. Epoxy wood sealers are often employed for decks, but they also work wonderfully on other kinds of wooden projects too.
Summary of The Best Exterior For Wood Finish
Exterior Oil Finish
Oil is undeniably the most effortless and expeditious option for protecting outdoor projects. However, the key downside of this method is that its effects are short-lived—most likely lasting only one year until the damage caused by weathering sets in.
Oil finishes are superior for projects where the natural wood grain is intended to be visible, such as furniture, which will require maintenance over time. Unlike varnish that forms a protective layer on top of the wood, the oil penetrates into it, creating a subtle yet elegant finish without covering up any of its characteristics.
Water-based Stain
Although stains come in a few different forms (such as alcohol, gel, and water-based), all of them are equipped with wood-protecting pigments. The kind of pigment makes the difference when it comes to a stain’s capability to resist both moisture and UV radiation levels.
For an ideal protection option between wood oil finishes and typical outdoor varnishes, gel stains are the way to go. Not only do they provide strong resistance against water damage, but these stains also dry in a flash – usually within an hour or less! This makes them perfect for everyone, from DIY-ers taking on small projects around their home to professional contractors tackling larger endeavors.
Penetrating Oil Finish
Stains that penetrate wood carry a distinct look and feel compared to those stains which merely sit on the surface. Penetrating oil finishes provide an extra layer of protection, shielding it from outdoor elements like never before.
Although they do not provide the same amount of water resistance and protection against harmful UV rays as exterior varnish, penetrating oils are an optimal choice for wood that has already been sealed with this type of coating. This method allows your wooden surfaces to preserve their natural aesthetic while still being able to protect them from any potential moisture or sun damage.
Epoxy Wood Sealer
Epoxy wood sealers are the perfect choice for any outdoor hardwood surface, providing superior water resistance and UV protection. Not only is it ideal for decks, but it can be applied to an array of other woodworking tasks with remarkable longevity – up to 10 years when properly cared for! Its unparalleled strength makes epoxy finishes more formidable than many other types of wood sealing products available on the market today.
Three varieties of epoxy wood sealers exist: clear-drying, pigmented and toning. Clear-drying epoxies are water-based solutions that create an invisible protective coat on the wood through an effortless one-step application process.
Pigmented wood sealers are just as effective as clear wood sealers but come in a variety of semi-transparent colors – they can either be used to maintain the original hue of the wood or bring out its grains. Wood toners serve an additional purpose by safeguarding against UV and moisture damage while preserving your wooden furniture’s natural coloration.
What To Consider When Choosing Wood Finish for Outdoor
1. Type of Wood
When deciding what wood finish to use on your project, the type of wood you are employing is an essential factor. Each species has distinct characteristics that permit it to survive harsher outdoors than other woods.
Take cedar and redwood, for instance; these materials are perfect for outdoor decks or other relevant projects because of their natural oil properties that protect them from moisture-induced damage. Similarly, teak wood is an ideal solution for furniture due to its low upkeep demand and the natural oils that make it weatherproof.
2. Type of project
While considering an exterior wood finish, the type of project you are working on will be a significant factor, especially if your wooden components require additional protection from moisture and UV rays. Take outdoor furniture or decks, for instance – these projects must use a superior sealant to safeguard them against nature’s elements.
3. Duration of wood project
Depending on the longevity of your wooden project, you’ll need to select an appropriate wood finish. For more temporary tasks, such as building a deck or creating furniture sets, oil finishes are usually faster and cheaper than varnishing it entirely. Conversely, sealers or varnishes provide superior protection against damage over time for projects that will remain in use for many years.
4. Price
Finally, wood finishes vary in price and can be expensive depending on the type of wood finish you choose. Water-based stains will generally be less expensive than complete wood varnish or sealers because they do not require as much upkeep to maintain their protective properties.
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1. Epifanes Clear Varnish
- The epoxy wood sealer provides excellent water resistance and protection against UV rays.
- The clear-drying epoxies are water-based with a simple one-step application process.
- A simple one-step application process creates an invisible layer of protection on the wood surface materials.
- It helps maintain wood’s natural color while still protecting against moisture and UV damage.
- Clear wood sealers come in three basic types: clear-drying epoxy, pigmented epoxy, and wood toners.
- Wood and water-based varnish protect the wood from moisture damage
- Epifanes Clear Varnish is a hardwood and marine exterior
Epifanes Clear Varnish is a hardwood and marine exterior wood varnish. It provides the highest protection available for wood, both for wood structures and wood-based products. It also offers a unique resistance to water, UV rays, fungi, and algae making it the best wood finish for outdoor shapes.
This product can be applied on multiple surfaces, including wood, metal, fabric & leather. The varnish is easy to apply using a brush or spray gun but should not be used on wood that has already been treated with a wood stain of any kind.
Pros
- Easily applied
- Low odor
- Excellent water resistance properties
- The best protection against UV rays
- Maintaining wood’s natural color
Cons
- It can only be used on wood that has already been varnished or sealed.
- Leaves wood slightly yellow
2. Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain for Decks, Fences, & Siding
- Protect wood against water damage.
- This wood finish is designed for wood projects exposed to water.
- It can also prevent the wood from turning grey over time by protecting wood against wood-damaging fungi and algae.
- It can be used on wood decks, fences, siding, outdoor furniture & wood projects that will be exposed to water.
- The ideal wood finish for outdoors – a wood stain that protects against moisture damage.
- Apply on exterior wood surfaces, including decks, fences, sidings, and more.
- Available in two different finishes: semi-transparent & solid color.
This wood stain is one of the Best Wood finishes for Outdoors. It protects against wood-damaging fungi, algae, and moisture. The wood finish for the outdoors can be used on all exterior wood surfaces, including decks, fences, siding & outdoor furniture. It can also maintain the wood’s natural color and prevent it from turning grey over time.
The wood stain is easy to apply using a brush or spray gun but should not be applied on wood that has already been treated with a wood preservative or sealer. It dries in under two hours, allowing you to continue wood projects promptly.
Pros
- Protect wood against water damage
- Long-lasting wood finish.
- Provides wood with a layer of protection against water damage
- Wood will not turn grey over time.
- Easy to apply and maintain
Cons
- Not as highly durable as wood sealers or varnish.
- It can only be applied on wood that has been sand
3. Varathane 297424 Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain, Quart, Antique White
- Non-toxic wood stain, perfect for wood decks and outdoor furniture.
- It provides good water resistance but cannot be reapplied once it is dry.
- Antique White color can be used to retain wood’s original color or bring out wood grains.
- Water-based wood stain wood can be re-stained after 24 hours of drying time.
Varathane wood stains provide a durable finish that keeps wood looking fresh and new by resisting moisture, sun damage, mold growth, and other weathering effects. Antique White is a water-based wood stain with an antique white color that can bring out wood grains or maintain the original wood color, depending on your preference.
This wood stain is perfect for wood decks and outdoor furniture because it provides a protective finish that keeps wood looking beautiful while resisting moisture. The water-based wood stain can be re-stained after 24 hours of drying but cannot be applied once the product has dried, so make sure to test all coats before you begin your project.
Caution: Keep away from children and animals.
Pros
- Dries in under 2 hours
- It brings out the natural beauty of the wood
- Affordable
- It does not require multiple layers
Cons
- It cannot be reapplied once it is dry
4. Rust-Oleum Corporation Zinsser 00903 Clear Wood Preservative, 1-Gallon
- A wood treatment that protects the wood against moisture, mold & mildew
- It protects wood from rotting and does not wash away with rainfall.
- Protect wood against damage from moisture, termites, mold & mildew.
- It can be used on wood decks and outdoor furniture.
- It provides the wood with a protective coating that will not peel, chip, or crack.
- It can only be used on wood surfaces that have already been sanded.
The rust-Oleum wood preservative is a high-quality wood stain that provides the wood with superior protection against the elements while enhancing the wood’s natural appearance. This wood preservative is designed to protect wood against damage from moisture, termites, and mold & mildew growth by providing a protective coating that won’t chip or peel over time. The wood stain can be used on wood decks and outdoor furniture because it resists peeling, chipping, and cracking even in extreme weather conditions such as rain, cold, or heat. In addition to wood protection, the wood preservative also enhances the wood’s natural appearance by bringing out wood grains and providing a clear finish that leaves the wood looking as good as new.
This rust-resistant stain can only be used on wood surfaces that have already been sanded, so make sure you prep your surface before application.
Pros
- Resists wood damage from water, mold & mildew growth.
- It can be used on wood decks and outdoor furniture.
- Clear wood preservative enhances wood’s natural beauty.
- Highly protective wood finish that will not peel, chip, or crack.
Cons
- It cannot be applied to wood surfaces with a rough surface texture
- It cannot be used on wood surfaces that have already been sanded
5.Rust-Oleum 3104 Zinsser 1-Qt. PermaWhite Exterior Satin
- Water-based paint that resists wood damage caused by mold & mildew growth.
- Durable wood finish that prevents peeling, chipping, and cracking.
- It can be used on wood decks, patios & outdoor furniture.
- Wood paint is water-based, so it’s easy to clean up.
- It provides the wood with a protective coat resistant to water and mildew.
- They are specially designed for wood surfaces in high-moisture areas like wood decks and porches.
- Paint with primer delivers a protective finish that won’t peel, crack, or chip.
Rust-Oleum wood paint provides the wood with a protective coating that resists water and mildew damage. This wood paint is specially designed for wood surfaces exposed to high-moisture climates, like wood decks and porches. The water-based wood stain delivers a protective finish that resists peeling, chipping, and cracking while preventing mold & mildew growth, so your wood stays beautiful all year long.
Rust-Oleum wood paint is water-based, so it’s easy to clean up and can be used on wood decks, patios, and outdoor furniture. This wood finish provides a protective coating that resists chipping even when exposed to rain or snow over time.
Pros
- Prevents wood damage from mold & mildew growth.
- Protective wood treatment that is resistant to water and mildew damage.
- Water-based wood paint is easy to clean up.
- It can be used on wood decks, patios, & outdoor furniture.
Cons
- It does not provide wood with a protective coating that resists peeling or cracking when exposed to harsh weather conditions.
Types Of Film Forming Finishes
In case you’re looking to preserve and protect the wood in your outdoor space, then a film-forming finish is an excellent option. Polyurethanes, solid color stains, paints, and varnishes are some of the most widely used products on the market. Here’s a peek at a few of them:
Exterior Paint
Exterior paint is a must when it comes to maintaining the longevity of your wood. It acts as an effective shield to protect it from sun exposure and UV radiation, making it ideal for sidings, doors, windows, and molding. Joint caulk is always recommended to ensure water can’t seep through cracks or crevices, causing blistering and peeling.
Exterior wood stains and varnish can safeguard the wood from harmful UV rays but, unfortunately, do not provide reliable protection against water damage like that of exterior paint. If you’re aiming to protect your outdoor projects, such as a wooden deck, which will be exposed to moisture from rain or dew, exterior wood finishes are the ideal choice.
Exterior wood finishes are available in oil-based, water-based, and latex formulations. Whether you’re constructing a wood project or need to improve the appearance of your outdoor furniture, exterior wood stains have numerous color options for darker woods while still protecting them from moisture damage. Unfortunately, this type of finish may not be as durable in harsh UV conditions compared to varnish and paint due to the lack of sunlight protection they provide.
Your exterior wood project can be fully safeguarded with a wide range of sheens, from matte to semi-gloss. A more glossy finish offers better protection against moisture damage and abrasion. At the same time, the latter will gradually wear away your finish if left unchecked, ultimately leading to water infiltration that may wreak havoc on the entire structure. Therefore – pick wisely.
Solid-Colored Stains
Opt for a semi-transparent stain when searching for something between solid color and paint. It contains many pigments and binders but isn’t as thick as paint. You can use these stains on outdoor furniture such as decks, gazebos, benches, etc., and shingles, boards, or wood siding to give them an instant facelift.
Many sheens come with solid-colored stains, but the most common is semi-gloss. Moreover, this type of finish offers UV protection and can be applied as a single coat or multiple coats for amplified resistance to moisture damage.
Clear Varnishes and Polyurethanes
With film-forming finishes, you can protect your wood from wear and tear or the elements and maintain its natural color and texture. These finishing solutions enhance its beauty for a stunning look that will last for years.
On the other hand, you must be aware that applying transparent varnishes and polyurethanes will take a high degree of expertise. It also necessitates regular recoating to keep it looking good.
Conclusion On Wood Finish for Outdoors
The wooden furniture in the garden looks beautiful, but to ensure it remains with you for many years of use and enjoyment, it must meet specific durability requirements. Even if your outdoor furniture is crafted from the best wood available, its finish should also be suitable for outdoor use. Fortunately, numerous types of finishes are suited especially for this purpose that can provide long-lasting protection against harsh elements outdoors.
You must be aware of the finishes you can employ because, even if you buy ready-made furniture, the finish will need to be maintained regularly. It will last many years if you maintain your outside furniture and use the finest wood finishes for outdoor furniture.
Reference: Wikipedia
