The shorter service life of these non-penetrating finishes can be improved with the use of a stain resistant primer. Latex stains are available in a wide range of colors and allow easy cleanup with water. Advantages of Penetrating Stains Natural appearance and protection from moisture are advantages provided by penetrating stains. Since the stains penetrate the wood, there is no peeling or blistering as commonly seen in painted exteriors. Stains perform well on many types of wood with unusual characteristics, including knots, texture and siding that's exposed to severe weather conditions.
Most stains contain water repellents and in many cases rot and mildew inhibitors.
Transparent stains contain no pigments but have water-repellent features that protect the wood without hiding the natural coloration, and slow the natural color change process. They modify the original wood color and to a lesser degree the characteristics of the wood, such as grain and knots-but not enough to take away from the overall impact of the wood's natural qualities. Semi-transparent stains are much more durable than transparent stains. Opaque stains are high in pigment content and thoroughly hide the grain and color of the wood. The surface texture is retained, but these opaque stains tend to perform like paint, and do not penetrate the wood so deeply.