can you use interior stain on outdoor furniture

Are you thinking of giving your outdoor furniture a facelift? Perhaps you want to stain it to match the new color of your house, but you are not sure what type of stain to use. The question that comes to mind is whether it is possible to use interior stains on outdoor furniture. In this article, we will delve into the details of interior and exterior stains and explore whether it is safe to use them interchangeably.

What are interior stains?

Interior stains are specifically designed to be used on wood surfaces in indoor areas such as flooring, cabinetry, and furniture. They come in different colors and tints and are meant to enhance the natural grain of the wood. Interior stains penetrate the wood fibers deeply, giving it an even and durable finish. They are often water-based or oil-based, and they contain additives that improve their performance. These additives include thinners that enhance the stain's flow and reduce drying time, antifoaming agents that prevent foaming during application, and ultraviolet light inhibitors that protect the wood from sunlight.

What are exterior stains?

Exterior stains, on the other hand, are used on surfaces that are exposed to the harsh outdoor weather elements. They are formulated to protect wood from moisture, fading, cracking, and warping. Exterior stains contain different additives from interior stains. For instance, they may have mold and mildew inhibitors that prevent fungus growth, waterproofers that prevent water penetration, and sun blockers that protect wood from UV rays. Exterior stains come in different types such as transparent, semi-transparent, and solid stains.

Can you use interior stain on outdoor furniture?

It is not advisable to use interior stain on outdoor furniture. The primary reason is that interior stains are not formulated to withstand outdoor weather conditions. They lack the necessary additives that provide protection against moisture, fading, and sunlight. Without these additives, the stain will quickly deteriorate, leading to discoloration, cracking, and peeling. Moreover, interior stains may contain volatile organic compounds that are harmful to the environment and human health. When applied outdoors, these compounds may release hazardous fumes that can cause respiratory problems.

Conclusion

In summary, it is not recommended to use interior stain on outdoor furniture. The two types of stains are formulated differently, with exterior stains having additives that provide additional protection against the elements. Using interior stain on outdoor furniture may lead to its premature deterioration, discoloration, and damage. Furthermore, the chemicals in the interior stain may be harmful to the environment and human health. Therefore, if you want to stain your outdoor furniture, make sure you use an exterior stain that is specifically designed for that purpose.