Penetrating Stains for Lasting Protection

Exterior Staining in Northern Colorado — Wood That Lasts

Log homes, cedar siding, wood decks, and natural wood trim all require staining — not painting — to maintain their appearance and structural integrity in Colorado's climate. Paint traps moisture in wood and eventually peels. Penetrating stains work with the wood, allowing it to breathe while protecting against UV degradation, moisture intrusion, and freeze-thaw damage.

Timnath Painting specializes in exterior staining for natural wood surfaces across Northern Colorado. We use premium penetrating oil and water-based stains and prepare surfaces properly before any product touches the wood.

Our Process

Exterior staining projects begin with a full surface assessment — existing finish type, wood species and condition, moisture content, and exposure level all drive product selection.

Preparation: All surfaces are cleaned thoroughly — power washing, mildew treatment, and wood brightening where needed. Failed existing stain is stripped or sanded. Bare wood is allowed to dry completely before application.

Stain Application: We use penetrating stains from Defy, Armstrong Clark, TWP, and Ready Seal — products specifically formulated for Colorado's UV intensity and freeze-thaw cycles. Application method is selected based on surface profile.

Two-Coat Application: Most exterior staining projects require two coats — a wet-on-wet application on new wood or a second coat after proper dry time on previously stained surfaces.

why choose us

Why Timnath Painting

Exterior staining is a specialty, not a side service. The difference between a stain job that lasts 5 years and one that fails in 18 months comes down to three things: surface prep, product selection, and application timing.

We test wood moisture before any product goes on. We select stain formulations based on wood species, existing coating condition, and UV exposure — not just whatever is on the shelf. And we do not stain in direct midday sun or within 48 hours of rain. Application timing in Colorado's climate matters more than most contractors acknowledge.

We use premium eco-friendly, no-VOC products by Sherwin Williams and Benjamin Moore that meet Colorado's VOC compliance standards. For homeowners in HOA communities, we coordinate color approval before any stain product is opened.

  • Licensed & Insured in Colorado
  • No-VOC Products.
  • $1M General Liability — COI on request
  • Sherwin-Williams & Benjamin Moore Approved
  • No subcontractors. We know our crews.

what to expect

Project Timeline

Exterior staining timelines depend on surface area and wood condition, but here is how a standard Northern Colorado project runs.

Assessment & Prep Phase: We assess the existing finish, test moisture content, and begin cleaning. Power washing and mildew treatment are completed on day one. Wood brightener is applied where needed and allowed to work overnight.

Dry & Inspect: Wood must be fully dry before staining — we confirm moisture levels are in the acceptable range before proceeding. On log homes with deep checking, we caulk any open splits with stainable caulk.

Stain Application: First coat applied by brush, roller, or sprayer depending on surface profile. Log homes and shake siding are always brush-applied for penetration. Flat siding can be sprayed and back-brushed.

Final Coat & Cure: Second coat applied after appropriate dry time. Most penetrating stains cure within 24–48 hours for light use and 72 hours for full weather exposure.

We provide regular updates throughout your project and are available by phone or text at any stage. You will never wonder where things stand.

related services

Other Services We Offer

Exterior Painting

7–10 year paint systems built for Colorado's freeze-thaw cycles.

Learn more →
HOA Painting

Color approval documentation and multi-unit scheduling for HOA communities.

Learn more →
Commercial Painting

After-hours scheduling, $1M liability, owned crew — not subcontractors.

Learn more →
Fence Staining

Penetrating stains for cedar, pine, and pressure-treated fences.

Learn more →

cities we serve

Areas Served

We provide exterior staining throughout Northern Colorado:

common questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of exterior surfaces can be stained? See answer ▼
We stain wood siding (cedar, pine, redwood, T1-11), log homes, wood decks, pergolas, fences, wood trim, and shake siding. Each surface type requires specific stain formulation and prep approach. Composite or PVC surfaces are not candidates for staining.
How do I know if my wood needs staining or painting? See answer ▼
Natural wood with visible grain that has previously been stained should be restained. Wood that has been painted should be repainted. Converting from paint to stain requires full paint removal — a major project. If you are unsure, we assess the existing finish during our on-site evaluation.
How often does exterior wood need to be restained in Colorado? See answer ▼
Northern Colorado's UV intensity and freeze-thaw cycles accelerate coating breakdown. Most exterior staining lasts 3–5 years with premium products and proper prep. South and west-facing surfaces may need attention sooner. Annual inspection catches early signs of failure before water intrusion causes wood damage.
What does exterior staining cost in Northern Colorado? See answer ▼
Exterior staining costs vary significantly based on surface area, wood species, condition, and accessibility. Deck staining typically runs $1.50–$3.50 per square foot. Log home exteriors vary by complexity. Call or text (970) 670-3965 for an on-site assessment and accurate quote.
Can you stain a log home? See answer ▼
Yes. Log home staining is one of our more involved projects because it requires full strip prep on failed existing coatings, checking of all log checks and joints, and brush application to ensure stain penetrates around the full log profile. We use oil-based penetrating products specifically formulated for log construction.
What is the best stain product for Colorado conditions? See answer ▼
We use Armstrong Clark, TWP (Total Wood Preservative), Defy Extreme, and Ready Seal depending on the application. All are penetrating formulations rated for Colorado's UV intensity and freeze-thaw cycling. We do not use hardware-store deck stains on log homes or shake siding.
Do you prep and stain decks? See answer ▼
Yes. Deck staining includes cleaning, brightening, and sanding the deck surface, then applying a penetrating deck stain rated for horizontal use. We include railings, balusters, and fascia boards in every deck stain project — not just the deck boards.
How long do I need to stay off the deck after staining? See answer ▼
Most penetrating deck stains are dry to light foot traffic in 4–8 hours and ready for normal use in 24–48 hours. We advise keeping pets and furniture off for 24 hours and avoiding sprinklers or heavy rain for 48 hours after application.

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Why Timnath Painting

  • Licensed & Insured
  • No-VOC Products.
  • $1M General Liability
  • SW & BM Approved
  • No Subcontractors
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