Wood stain, wood paint or exterior oil?

Sun, rain, frost, and microorganisms all take their toll on the natural material – wood. The right protective treatment is crucial for the longevity and beauty of your wooden elements. But which product is suitable for what?

Outdoor oils

When to use:

• When the natural wood structure and grain should be emphasized
• For terraces, garden furniture and wooden decks outdoors
• If a matte, natural look is desired
• For woods with beautiful natural coloring or structure
• When a simple renovation without sanding is important

Characteristics:

• Penetrate deep into the wood, do not form a film
• Let the wood breathe
• Need to be refreshed more regularly (1-2 years)
• Easy renovation possible by re-oiling

glazes

When to use:

• When protection and color should be combined
• For wooden facades, fences, pergolas, carports
• When UV protection is important, but the wood structure should remain visible
• For decorative color effects with visible wood structure

Characteristics:

• Middle layer formation
• Transparent to semi-transparent coloring
• Good UV protection through pigments
• Longer shelf life than oils (2-5 years)
• Various gloss levels available

Wood paints/opaque coatings

When to use:

• For heavily weathered or damaged wood
• If a completely new color scheme is desired
• For maximum weather protection for facades and heavily used surfaces
• When renovating old paintwork with different shades
• If very long renovation intervals are desired

Characteristics:

• Fully opaque, wood structure no longer visible
• Form a closed film
• Maximum UV and weather protection
• Longest shelf life (5-10 years)
• More extensive renovation (sanding may be necessary)

The choice ultimately depends on your priorities: natural look (oil), balance between visibility and protection (glaze) or maximum protection and color design (wood stain).