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Oil vs. Water Based Stains

First, let’s clear up one misconception: there are actually 3 different types of stains, not just oil- and water-based. Below is a brief overview of the types and their pros and cons. Sashco always recommends using a stain with some sort of film-forming property to it, as the film is where the majority of the UV protection is derived. And, as is usually the case, the higher-quality the raw materials, the greater the longevity and better long-term appearance of the product.

SURFACE STAINS: water-based or water-oil emulsions. They penetrate only into the first layer of wood cells. (Sashco’s Capture / Cascade system is a surface stain)

Pros: Environmentally friendly; low odor; water clean-up; good water-repellancy; compatible with caulk and chinking; dries fast, excellent UV protection and longevity out of better brands

Cons: Some brands dry hard and rigid, leading to flaking or peeling; back brushing required; weather conditions must be warm for proper drying and film formation; lower-quality resins fall apart quickly with UV exposure

SHALLOW PENETRATING STAINS: oil-based or water-oil emulsions. They penetrate 1-4 cell layers deep. (Sashco’s Transformation and High Sierra stains are both shallow penetrating stains)

Pros: Good water-repellancy; can be environmentally friendly; excellent water-repellancy; excellent UV protection and longevity out of better brands; most brands compatible with caulks and chinking; more “forgiving” when applied in less-than-ideal weather

Cons: sometimes slower dry time; film-forming, which can lead to peeling or flaking when proper prep is not done; solvent clean-up; resins used can dry hard and rigid

DEEP PENETRATING STAINS: all oil-based. They penetrate at least 3-4 cells deep, often as much as ½” deep. (No Sashco products are deep penetrating stains)

Pros: Good initial water-repellancy; little to no flaking or peeling since no film is left on the surface; easily re-coated; great for decks and shingles

Cons: Not compatible with most all caulk and chinking; minimal UV protection; leaves oily residue on surface; picks up dirt easily; slippery long after application; solvent clean-up; does not last long (especially on log homes); darkens significantly over time.