Why Use Wood Stain Instead of Paint?
A high-quality wood stain is designed to penetrate and protect porous wood rather than forming a thick surface film like paint. That means it works with the texture and movement of wood outdoors, helping reduce cracking and peeling over time. Cloverdale stains are formulated for durability, weather resistance, and long-term colour performance in Canadian conditions.
Wood stain is ideal when you want to:
- protect wood from sun, moisture, and wear
- enhance or refresh the natural look of wood
- add colour without hiding wood character (if desired)
- achieve a finish that’s easier to maintain than paint
Choosing Between Translucent and Solid Hide Wood Stain Colours
Both stain types protect your wood. The difference is the look and the wood condition they’re best for.
Translucent / Semi-Transparent Wood Stain
A translucent wood stain adds colour while letting the grain and natural variation remain visible. It’s a great pick when your wood looks good and you want to keep that character front and center.
Choose translucent wood stain colours if:
- the wood is new or in good shape
- you like a natural, “wood-first” finish
- you want subtle colour with visible grain
- you’re working on cedar, fir, or other attractive wood species
Keep in mind: the final colour depends on the wood’s species and age, so always test your stain on your real surface.
Solid Hide Wood Stain
A solid hide wood stain provides more complete colour coverage, like paint, while still being formulated for wood movement outdoors. It’s ideal when the wood is weathered or you want a bold, uniform colour.
Choose solid hide wood stain colours if:
- your wood is older, patchy, or sun-bleached
- you want to hide discoloration or repairs
- the surface was previously solid-stained
- you want modern colour with minimal grain showing
Solid hide finishes also offer the strongest UV and moisture barrier for long-term protection.
How to Pick the Right Wood Stain Colours
1. Match Your Home’s Fixed Features
Look at the colours you can’t change roof shingles, stone, brick, trim, and windows. Choose stain tones that share the same undertone family (warm or cool) so everything looks intentional.
2. Decide on the Mood You Want
- Natural, warm, organic: cedar tones, honey browns, weathered wood looks
- Modern and crisp: greys, charcoals, or deep neutral solids
- Classic and timeless: soft mid-browns, taupes, balanced neutrals
Popular stain colours are popular for a reason—they suit many styles and age well.
3. Test Before You Commit
Digital colours vary from screen to screen, and wood absorbs stain uniquely. Cloverdale recommends sampling on your actual wood surface and checking it in different lighting before staining the full project.
Start With Proven Wood Stain Favourites
If you’re not sure where to begin, Cloverdale’s curated wood stain colours in WeatherOne® and SharkSkin® are a reliable shortlist. They’re designed specifically for real outdoor surfaces, real weather, and real homes.
Whether you’re highlighting fresh cedar with a translucent finish or giving older siding a complete refresh with solid hide, the right wood stain will protect your project and elevate your exterior for years to come.