Is it Better to Paint or Stain a Garage and Entry Door?

There are two major options when it comes to garage and entry door finishing: paint and stain. When creating a custom garage door or entry door design, both are readily available options, and one of the nice things about working with wood as a door material is that both options remain on the table. You cannot stain a steel, aluminum, or composite material garage door. However, you can apply a stain to natural wood just as easily as you can paint it (any color that you want). But which is better, paint or stain? Does one last longer? Does one protect a door more? 

If you are trying to decide between paint and stain for a garage or entry door, here’s what you need to know. 

Both Provide Similar Levels of Protection

When it comes to protection from the elements (moisture, wind, debris, etc.), both paint and stain will do an adequate job protecting your door. Neither really stand out when it comes to protection, so if this is one of your concerns, put it to rest knowing that you can’t go wrong with either paint or stain. 

Which Lasts Longer

While both paint and stain will need to be reapplied over the years to keep the colors vibrant and conceal any flaws, stain generally needs to be applied more often. However, this is entirely dependent on the type of paint you purchase. When it comes to paint, what you pay for is generally what you get. If you opt for cheap paint as a finish, you will have to reapply it far more frequently than if you invest in a more quality brand. 

When it comes to longevity, paint is the clear winner, but both will need to be reapplied at least once every few years. 

Stain Preserves/Enhances the Natural Beauty of Wood

If you have chosen a wooden garage or entry door because you love the look, color and warmth of natural wood, the stain will preserve this beauty much more than paint. The paint will partially conceal the natural lines in the woodgrain, and its natural coloring will vanish completely. There are many stains on the market that are specially designed to enhance/slightly alter the color of the wood. Some sealers are clear and will completely preserve the wood’s exact color, while providing the same level of protection. 

Paint Opens Up More Options

There are many different colors of stain, but they pale in comparison to the options you have with paint. Choosing to paint your door opens you up to limitless possibilities when it comes to color. You can mix nearly any color and shade, allowing you to choose a color that matches the design scheme of your home. 

Is There a Right Choice?

There isn’t. Do you want to preserve the natural color of the wood, or do you want to be able to finish your door with any color you choose? That’s the primary choice. You can’t go wrong with paint or stain, just remember to choose a high-quality finish that will protect your door over the years. 

Want to talk about your garage or entry door’s design? Get in touch with the experts at CAMBEK today!

Get in Touch with Cambek