Why Non-Film-Forming Oil-Based Stains Make Deck Maintenance Easier for Years to Come
When it comes to maintaining your deck, the right stain can make all the difference. Many homeowners struggle with the upkeep of their decks, especially when it comes time for reapplication. That’s where non-film-forming oil-based stains shine. Unlike film-forming stains, these types of stains penetrate the wood, providing long-lasting protection without the hassle of peeling, chipping, or constant maintenance.
In this blog post, we’ll explore why non-film-forming oil-based stains are the ideal choice for homeowners looking for easy deck maintenance that lasts for years.
What is a Non-Film-Forming Oil-Based Stain?
Before diving into why these stains make maintenance easier, let’s break down what they are.
A non-film-forming oil-based stain penetrates the wood’s surface instead of forming a protective layer on top of it. The oil works its way into the wood fibers, providing protection from moisture, UV rays, and general wear. As opposed to film-forming stains that create a surface layer, non-film-forming stains allow the wood to breathe and maintain its natural texture.
1. No Peeling or Chipping
How Non-Film-Forming Stains Eliminate Peeling
One of the main drawbacks of film-forming stains (including solid or semi-solid stains) is that over time, they tend to peel, crack, or chip. This happens because the stain sits on top of the wood and is exposed to the elements. The combination of moisture, sun exposure, and foot traffic causes the stain to break down, resulting in an unsightly and uneven appearance.
How Non-Film-Forming Stains Help
With non-film-forming oil-based stains, the stain penetrates deeply into the wood instead of forming a surface coating. This means the stain won’t peel, flake, or crack, allowing your deck to retain its beautiful finish for longer. As the wood naturally weathers over time, the stain fades evenly, meaning you won't need to worry about unsightly patches or areas where the finish has worn off.
2. Easy Reapplication
Reapplying Film-Forming Stains is Time-Consuming
If you’ve ever applied a film-forming stain, you know the hassle involved when it comes time to reapply. Since the stain sits on top of the wood, you usually need to sand or strip the old stain before applying a new coat. This extra preparation time can make the reapplication process long and tedious.
Non-Film-Forming Stains Are Effortless to Reapply
With non-film-forming oil-based stains, the reapplication process is much simpler. Because the stain has penetrated the wood, it doesn’t require sanding or stripping. In most cases, you can simply clean the deck, apply a fresh coat, and let it dry—no additional prep work required. This makes maintenance quicker and easier, saving you both time and effort.
3. Long-Term Durability
Why Non-Film-Forming Stains Last Longer
While film-forming stains break down over time, non-film-forming oil-based stains offer much more durability. Since the stain is absorbed by the wood, it won’t be subjected to the same kind of abrasion and wear. Oil-based stains also naturally provide protection against moisture, which is one of the leading causes of wood deterioration. By preventing water from seeping into the wood, the stain helps avoid issues like warping, splitting, or rotting.
Fading vs. Peeling
One of the benefits of non-film-forming stains is that, while they may fade over time, they do so evenly. The fading is gradual, and it happens without the patchy, uneven appearance that often results from peeling or chipping. This means your deck will continue to look beautiful for years to come, with minimal effort on your part.
4. Better UV Protection
UV Damage to Decks
UV rays from the sun are a major cause of deck discoloration and deterioration. Over time, exposure to sunlight can cause wood to become gray, weathered, and even brittle. Film-forming stains offer limited UV protection and are often more prone to breaking down under sun exposure.
Superior UV Protection with Oil-Based Stains
Non-film-forming oil-based stains contain higher levels of pigments, which provide superior protection against harmful UV rays. As the oil-based stain soaks into the wood, it helps block UV rays from causing premature fading and wood damage. This helps maintain your deck’s vibrant color and structural integrity for much longer, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups.
5. Cost-Effective Maintenance
Fewer Touch-Ups and Repairs
Since non-film-forming oil-based stains fade evenly without peeling or cracking, you’ll find that the maintenance required over time is much more cost-effective. You won’t need to spend extra money on sanding or stripping the wood each time you reapply the stain. Instead, a simple cleaning and re-coating process will keep your deck looking fresh for years, saving you money in the long run.
Long-Lasting Protection Equals Fewer Repairs
The durability and protection provided by oil-based stains also reduce the likelihood of wood damage. This means you won’t have to deal with costly repairs or replacements due to rotting or splitting—ultimately saving you money.
Conclusion: Non-Film-Forming Oil-Based Stains Make Deck Maintenance a Breeze
If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to protect your deck, non-film-forming oil-based stains are the way to go. Their long-lasting durability, easy reapplication, and superior UV protection make deck maintenance significantly easier over the years. With minimal effort required for upkeep, you can enjoy a beautiful, protected deck without the constant stress of peeling, chipping, or costly repairs.
Ready to give your deck the protection it deserves? Contact us today for expert advice and a free estimate on our oil-based staining services!
