We recently posted a blog about Recommended Deck Stain for keeping the patio hangs at an all time high and today we would like to explain exactly why we chose those based on our location here in the High Sierra.
For reasons beyond our pay grade, Nevada County remains one of only a few counties in California that allows higher VOC oil-based stains. This is good news for homes and decks in our area because these higher VOC stains perform better and last longer than other low VOC oil-based stains or waterborne stains in our extreme mountain environment.
Oil-based stains perform better: Higher VOC oil-based stains penetrate deeper into the wood, last longer, and provide richer colors than other wood stain products. Additionally, oil-based stains are easier to maintain because they naturally wear away on their own over time and do not require harsh and expensive chemical treatments to remove in preparation for future stain applications.
By contrast, waterborne stains don’t penetrate into the wood as deeply, leaving a film that sits on the surface. These stains tend to fail faster. They also tend to peel or flake off and leave an inconsistent appearance over time. They are also costly to maintain because they require a chemical strip and/or heavy sanding to remove the stain when a retreatment is required.
TOP 5 STAIN COLORS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
- Gemini TWP
- Olympic Maximum
- Messmers UV Plus
- Preserva Wood
- Cabot
Pro Tip: If you plan to stain your deck or home yourself this summer make sure to buy your stain from the pros at Mountain Hardware and Sports. By law, areas outside of Nevada County cannot sell the same higher VOC oil-based stains that are available in our area.