To answer this common question it’s helpful to understand the differences between sealing and staining.
Sealers
The main goal of a sealer is to repel moisture. They are typically transparent and form a coat outside of the grain. The waterproofing qualities of a sealer means your wood will be protected from decay due to fungus. Sealers will not, however, protect wood from UV damage:
Pros
- Easy to apply.
- Less expensive than stain.
- Protects wood from fungal rot.
Cons
- Doesn’t last as long as stain.
- Doesn’t protect wood from UV damage.
Stains
Stains offer the same benefits as sealers but with some extra advantages. Sun damage can cause a fence to fade and become grey in as little as a few months. A quality stain can protect a fence against the UV rays at the heart of the process. The more opaque the stain, the more UV protection it provides. There is also a wide variety of shades to choose from with stains. Unlike sealers, stains seep into the grain in a way that enhances the natural beauty of the wood. Finally, stains last far longer than sealers.
Pros
- Protects wood from both fungal rot and UV damage.
- Lasts longer than sealers.
- Wide choice of colours.
Cons
- More difficult to apply.
- More expensive than sealers.
The bottom line:
We recommend staining if your budget will allow for it. We offer a pre-staining service, where the wood is stained at our shop before the fence is installed. It ensures that every nook and cranny of your fence is covered. For more details, see here.
We offer a pre-staining service.
More questions?
If you have more questions about staining we’re happy to answer them. Call 613-736-1122 or hit the chat button on the right during business hours.
