
Stain, oil, polyurethane, lacquer and paint compared for look, durability and care on furniture, floors and trim.
A finish protects wood and shapes how it looks. Stain adds color and shows grain. Oil soaks in and feels natural. Polyurethane forms a hard film that resists wear. Lacquer dries fast and sprays smoothly, and paint hides the grain and offers endless colors.
The right finish depends on use. A dining table needs resistance to heat and spills, a floor needs wear resistance and exterior wood needs UV and moisture protection. We prepare surfaces, test samples and apply coats with proper drying times.
Color that shows the grain.
Natural feel and easy repair.
Hard, durable film.
Color and smooth surfaces.
Fast drying and smooth.
See color on your wood.
Pick a wood, plan stairs or ballpark a budget.
Which Wood Should I Use? QuizAnswer five questions about your project and see the wood species that fit best.Try it
Stair Rise and Run CalculatorEnter the total rise and see the number of steps, the riser height, the tread depth and the stringer length.Try it
Carpentry Project Budget PlannerPick a project and a size and get a ballpark planning range.Try it Catalyzed or water-based polyurethane and conversion varnish are very durable for cabinets and tables.
It needs occasional refreshing but is easy to repair.
Stain shows wood grain and paint offers color and a uniform look. We help you choose.
Material guideWood SpeciesOak, walnut, maple, cherry, cedar and pine compared by look, hardness, cost and best use in a home.Learn more
Material guideJoineryMortise and tenon, dovetails, dados, pocket screws and biscuits explained, with when each one is the right choice.Learn more
Material guidePlywood and Sheet GoodsPlywood, MDF, particleboard and veneer sheets compared for cabinet boxes, shelves, panels and paint-grade work.Learn more
Material guideCabinet and Door HardwareHinges, drawer slides, pulls, knobs and locksets compared for feel, finish and long-term performance.Learn more Call us and we will walk the space, talk through ideas and give you a clear plan and a written scope.