Wood siding is considered the best way to provide both beauty and protection to a home.
Siding stain vs paint.
Paint forms a surface film that completely covers the wood grain but doesn t penetrate deeply.
It is much less expensive than siding with any material and if done carefully will give your home a fresh look and protection against weather damage that can last several years.
Paint will begin to peel and fade within five to eight years.
When it comes to durability vinyl is the preferred choice.
Paint or stain prevents moisture entry wood rot and pest entry.
It costs about 15 percent more per gallon but has a lower coverage rate.
But there s an important difference as well because these stains will highlight the cedar s natural texture.
Like paint a solid color stain forms a protective film over the wood.
Surface preparation and application.
If applied properly solid stains may flake a little but the thinner coat is easier to scrape and sand than paint you don t have thick edges and craters to sand as with multiple coats of paint.
In the end it ll cost two to three times as much as standard acrylic paint.
Paints will also outlast solid stains but the stains are generally easier to recoat.
Exterior siding paint vs stain coverage and appearance.
So while paint and solid stain is essentially the same type of coating there are differences that lead to different uses.
If you want to safeguard the gorgeousness of natural wood siding the exterior surface of the siding should be painted or stained regularly.
However the wood veneer used when refacing comes in a variety of grains and hues even white so you may not need to apply paint or stain at all.
Concrete stain is a better choice for sprucing up horizontal surfaces.
It wears more slowly than paint and is easier to renew.
Stain is also more breathable allowing natural airflow through the wood.
Vinyl siding on the other hand has a lifespan of 20 years or more.
Vinyl also comes with integral insulation and can be more energy efficient.
Paint will dry in a thicker coat providing a more substantial barrier.
It also brings a warm and traditional feel to any home.
And paint is used when the surface is smooth or you want the longest lasting coating to protect your wood.
Solid color stains are typically available in a matte finish only.
Paint can be tinted to any color and small details can be preserved so your options in terms of appearance are practically limitless.
Solid stains are most often used when the wood is rough or when you want to accentuate the wood texture.