Mirotone’s range of dye and pigment stains are ideal for use on domestic furniture, internal doors and commercial furniture. Enhancing or changing the colour of timber substrates is just one of the design options available to transform your space.
Before you rush in and apply just any stain, let’s talk about the differences between dye stains, pigment stains, water based and solvent based variants and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Pigment stains and dye stains will look and behave differently when applied to timber. So what are the difference between the two?
Dye Stains
Dye stains consist of microscopic particles that penetrate the timber itself. The colour particles are tiny enough to penetrate deep into the cell structure of timber substrates. Dye stains penetrate deep into the timber surface to beautifully magnify the grain.
- Best used to create base/group colour strength and better suited to shading and toning.
- Transparent finish – even at high concentrations (allows the timber grain to show through).
- Low to moderate fade resistance when exposed to light for long periods of time.
Pigment Stains
Pigment stains are essentially a pigment (ground inorganic oxides) much larger in structure that hold the pigment onto the timber. Coloured pigments stick in the grain and pores of the wood surface.
- Best used to create colour depth (denser and more dynamic colour).
- Better suited for adjusting/hiding wood grain effects/imperfections.
- Pigment stains are much more resistant to UV exposure.
So what is the key difference between water based and solvent based stains. Solvent stains will provide deeper and richer colours, while water based stains are soft and subtle and will offer little brightness in colour. It is important to mention that solvent based stains are combustible. Applicators must know how to use a pigment (solvent based) stain safely with adequate precautionary steps to limit chances of flammability of rags and excess stain. Water based stains are best suited for D.I.Y applicators.
Water based stains are much more environmentally friendly. Solvent based stains will conceal imperfections better than water based stains. However, applying and cleaning water based stains is easier and they can be cleaned up with water.
Mirotone’s range of wood stains are easy to use and available in a large range of colours. From slow drying right through to fast drying stains, pigment or dye stains, water based and solvent based options – we make sure we have the right system to meet your requirements. Take a look at our complete MIROSTAIN Wood Stain range. Need to know more? – Contact Us for further information.