Stain vs. Paint, which direction should I go? There is often confusion about which one to use or which one is better. You may be surprised to find out that the answer to that question is not as simple as you think.
When planning your project, you should choose the right finish based on what you plan to paint and what type of style you desire. Without this step, your project may not appear as you intended.
Painting vs. Staining share many similarities, but they also differ greatly which can influence your decision. In both cases, paint and stain serve as protective, preservative, and decorative materials.
Find out more about stain or paint, and then you can decide which one is best for your project.
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Painting vs. Staining (Quick Summary)
In stain vs. paint composition, there are three basic ingredients :
If you compare a tin of stain with a tin of paint, you will notice that the stain appears thinner. The paint contains more pigment particles in the liquid vehicle, producing a noticeable difference in appearance.
The principal difference between paint and stain is that paint coats the surface and covers it, whereas stain penetrates into the surface and preserves its natural beauty.
Paint:
Stained vs Painted wood
How Much Does Paint Cost?
There is an average cost of $15 to $50 per gallon of paint and each can covers about 400 square feet. A common mistake homeowners make when painting their homes is selecting the wrong paint for the project.
A comparison of paint prices for different types of paint is shown in this chart.
| Type Of Paint | Used For | Price per Gallon |
| High Gloss | High gloss paints are most reflective, durable and easiest to clean. It is a good choice to be used on cabinets, doors, windows, trim. | $30 – 120 |
| Flat paint | Applying this product takes less time because of its matte finish. It absorbs light, which makes it ideal for covering small imperfections. | $27 – 40 |
| Matt | Smooth, non-reflective appearance that hides nail holes and other surface blemishes. It is a go to option for drywall, bedroom, dining room. | $25 – 50 |
| Eggshell | Eggshell paint is easier to wash than flat sheen paint. It is a popular type of wall paint today. Living rooms, hallways, and dining rooms are best suited for it. | $24 – 40 |
| Satin Paint | This paint is durable and has a lustrous sheen. It is used for ceilings, walls and woodworking projects. | $29 – 42 |
| Semi-Gloss | It has a noticeable shine finish and is more durable than matte and flat paint. You can use semi-gloss finishes for toilet (bathroom), trim, kitchens, and moldings. | $33 – 56 |
Pros & Cons of Painting
PROS:
CONS:
Stain:
How Much Does stain Cost?
The cost of a gallon of stain ranges from $20 to $50, and it covers an area of 175 to 300 square feet.
| Type Of Stain | What is wood stain used for | Price per Gallon |
| Solid Deck Stain | With solid stain, your deck can be protected from moisture damage caused by rain, snow, and other precipitation. It blocks ultraviolet rays and can sometimes be used over painted surfaces. | $25 – $70 |
| Water-Based Deck Stain | Water stains last longer than oil-based stains, as they have high UV resistance and color retention. It is primarily used for small indoor and outdoor projects that are environmentally friendly. | $20 – $90 |
| Oil-Based Deck Stain | Oil-based stains are ideal for furniture or large wood surfaces, as they dry more slowly, which gives the piece a more natural look and even finish. It can sometimes be applied over paint. | $35 – $120 |
| Semi-Solid Deck Stain | Semi-Solid Stains provide hiding coverage on wood surfaces. It is a good choice for older decks. | $40 – $90 |
| Semi-Transparent Deck Stain | It protects and beautifies exterior wood surfaces. In the case of weathered or stained decks, this is an excellent option. | $20 – $100 |
| Transparent Deck Stain | This stain preserves the natural color of your deck. | $20 – $60 |
| Clear Deck Stain | It provides natural look and good protection for wood surface against graying and cracking. | $20 – $50 |
Pros & Cons of Staining
PROS:
CONS:
Stain vs. Paint House: Which should you choose!
Hopefully you know all about Painting vs. Staining. They are simply 2 different finishes that deliver a different look. Each application is good in its own way. Let’s see what you think would be the best choice for your home.
