Step 8: Start your wood staining project
You’ve picked a wood stain opacity and color, and you’ve tested a sample on different pieces of wood—and most importantly, you’re happy with the results. Now it’s time to start your wood staining project.
Preparation is key: Check out how to prep a deck for staining, then see our guide on how to stain a deck. As always, the experts at your locally owned Benjamin Moore store can help with any questions you have, from choosing a stain color to using the product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How do I choose the best wood stain?
A. The age and condition of the wood plays an important role when you are choosing the best wood stain for your project, as the opacity and color you select will make all the difference.
Once you’ve decided on an oil- or water-based stain, we suggest using premium Woodluxe® Exterior Stain for the ultimate in outdoor beauty. Years of technological innovation and research have yielded this brand-new exterior stain that seals and protects wood, with luxurious results.
Q. How do I find the right wood stain color?
A. A stain color can either enhance or transform the natural hue of wood. If you want your stain to enhance the natural appearance of your wood, choose a stain color that’s close to the wood’s natural hue. If you want to cover imperfections or make a bold statement, consider Woodluxe® Solid Exterior Stain in any of Benjamin Moore’s 3,500+ colors.
Wood stains come in many colors and several opacities, from translucent to solid. Once you’ve decided whether you want to enhance or transform the look of your wood, you can explore the many colors and opacities Woodluxe offers. Be sure to sample your choices to see how they look in real life.
Q. What are the best wood stain colors?
A. The best wood stain color for your deck or other outdoor projects is the one you love the most. Some popular picks our customers love include Teak ES-30, Cordovan Brown ES-62, and Amherst Gray HC-167.
For help in selecting a wood stain color, contact the experts at your locally owned store and talk through your project to discover which options are right for you.
Q. Which wood stain lasts the longest?
A. For wood stain that lasts, we suggest Benjamin Moore Woodluxe®, an innovative line of oil- and water-based exterior stains that seal and protect wood, with luxurious results.
Woodluxe’s formulas deliver excellent durability and protection, while also offering a range of gorgeous opacities and colors. From UV exposure to frost, Woodluxe protects wood under a variety of weather conditions, all year long.
Q. How do you match wood stain color to existing wood?
A. To match stain color to existing wood, it is essential to sample the stain on the wood before you commit. Let the stain dry completely before making your decision on color and opacity, as the stain’s appearance can change as it dries.
Especially with lower opacities, keep in mind that the color will have variations. Just as natural wood has different textures and grains, your stained wood will likely have lighter and darker spots. For more help on matching wood stain color, contact the experts at your locally owned store.