Wooden floors and furniture can be a beautiful addition to any home, but they require maintenance to keep them looking their best. One of the critical measures in preserving wood is staining it. Staining wood helps protect it from moisture and prevents it from becoming discolored over time. Let’s walk through the deadly consequences of not staining your wood and why it is necessary to do so!
Reduce the Durability Of Your Wood
One of the consequences of not staining your wood is that it will reduce the durability of your wood. Without a protective layer, your wood will be more susceptible to damage from moisture and sunlight. Over time, this can cause your wood to warp, crack, or splinter. In addition, un-stained wood is more likely to fade in color over time.
Vulnerability to Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew are the enemies of wood. They can cause the wood to rot and break down, eventually leading to its demise. If you don’t stain your wood, it will be much more susceptible to these organisms. You can protect your wood by staining it, creating a barrier against mold and mildew. If you fail to stain your wood, you may have to replace it sooner than you’d like.
Loss of Color and Natural Beauty
Your wood will not look good if you don’t stain it. The natural color will start to fade, and you won’t be able to bring it back. The layer will slowly peel off and chip away, making the wood look old and worn. The natural look of wood keeps it fresh and new; if you don’t protect it with a reliable stain, the wood will lose its luster.
UV Damage
The UV rays from the sun are hazardous to wood. It will cause the wood to fade and eventually crack. By not staining your wood, you are putting it at risk of severe damage. Over the years, the wood will become more brittle and eventually break. It is imperative to protect your wood from the sun by staining it. Use a high-quality stain that will provide UV protection.
Water Damage
Water is another enemy of wood that can pose severe damage. If you reside in an area that witnesses heavy rainfall or your deck is located near a pool, it’s essential to ensure that your wood is properly sealed. Without a sealant, water can seep into the wood and cause it to swell, warp, and rot. Always consider the location of your deck when deciding whether or not to stain and seal it. Even slight negligence can cost you big time.
Chemical Damage
Chemical damage may be the most common and most severe type of damage caused by not staining your wood. It is typically caused by using the wrong type of cleaners or chemicals on your wood. Over time wood fibers will start breaking down, which can cause the wood to become lighter and non-durable. In addition, chemical damage can also cause the wood to change color, making it look dull and lifeless.
The Bottom Line
Staining wood is unnecessary, but not doing it has consequences. The most shocking consequence is that the wood will rot and decay much faster. Unprotected wood is also susceptible to insect infestation and Wood-destroying fungi.
So, if you’re wondering whether or not staining wood is necessary, the answer is a resounding “yes”! Not only will it help to protect your wood from damage, but it will also keep it looking its best. So, be sure to stain your wood regularly, and you’ll enjoy its beauty for years to come.
