The beauty of a gray-inspired wall or gray-stained furniture is that it goes with almost any style. From basic concepts to unique combinations, gray wood stain has the ability to transform both interior and exterior projects. Here are some great reasons to consider gray wood stain for your next project.
Why Stain or Restain Wood?
Wood is one of the most versatile materials historically used for furniture and other décor. It can be stained with a variety of different coats to enhance and change its color or shine. There are many reasons why people might choose to stain their wood, including:
Alter Aesthetic Style
If you are looking to alter the aesthetic style of gray wood, there are a few routes you can take. One option is to go with a darker gray wood stain, which can give your space a more dramatic feel. If you are looking for something a bit more subtle, a light gray wood stain may be a better option.
No matter what color you choose, always test the stain on a small area of your wood before applying it to the entire surface. This will help ensure that the final result is exactly what you’re looking for. For more inspiration, visit ZAR’s video section to view application tips and final results.
Save Money on New Furniture by Refurbishing the Old
One of the best ways to save money on new furniture is to refurbish the old pieces you already have. This can be done by using a gray wood stain to change the color of your wood furniture. By using a gray wood stain on your pieces, you can give your space a fresh new look without overspending on brand new furniture.
Preserve Value by Protecting Wood
Protect and enhance the value of your wood furnishings by applying a fresh coat of gray stain. This will add an extra layer of protection to keep the wood from being scratched or damaged, which can cause it to look worn and lose value over time. Applying a sealant or polyurethane to your gray wood furniture can also help keep it looking new for longer.
The Hottest Color of the Last Decade in Home Design: Gray
While gray might not be everyone’s overall favorite color, gray is definitely on trend and seems to be the new hottest trend when looking at any lifestyle or home magazine. Gray color choices can make your home look contemporary and unique; it revitalizes walls and furniture by making them stand out in any room.
The Top 4 Gray Wood Stain Color Options for Interior Applications
1. Malibu Gray
This color has a beautiful medium brown tone with streaks of gray mixed in to create the perfect natural stain.
2. Silk Gray
This combination of reds, greens, yellows and blues produces a soft, luxurious gray.
3. Gray Cashmere
Cashmere comes in many colors, ranging from beige-white to dark chocolate brown. The color Cashmere is lovely — light and airy with a gorgeous blend of gray, green and blue hues.
4. Blue Moon
Hints of blues and greens bring an uplifting note to this soothing gray, perfect for any interior project at hand.
The Top 5 Gray Wood Stains for Exterior Applications
1. Crypto Gray
This classic medium dark gray stain is ideal for any outdoor projects that need a clean, modern new look.
2. Cosmos Gray
The delicate mixture of blue, green, red and white in this stain produces a misty light gray blend that effortlessly upgrades any and all surfaces.
3. Gray with Envy
This blend provides greener undertones to the medium dark gray palette, helping highlight the colors of nature and bringing those outdoor hues to a home’s exterior.
4. Driftaway Gray
If you love light brown undertones in your gray, Driftaway is an excellent choice. This subtle, yet charming, color can complete any outdoor project with ease.
5. Gray Matter
If you’re looking for a striking gray color that demands attention, Gray Matter is the perfect choice. This classic dark gray shade works great with lighter color accents and is sure to impress.
Exterior and Interior Wood Stain Applications
Gray wood stain can be used in various ways to bring fresh beauty to your interior and exterior wood furniture and wall coverings.
Interior Applications
There are many gray wood stains on the market that are both safe and effective. Indoors, gray wood stain can be used to give furniture, trim and walls a fresh new look. It can also be used to protect wood from scratches and other damage.
Furniture
When you choose to refinish wood furniture, you’ll preserve the value of your current furnishings. To ensure your furnishings keep their new look for a long time, regular maintenance is required.
Chairs
Some of the simplest — and often cheapest — old furniture to come by at second-hand stores or yard sales are wooden sitting or dining chairs. These can be made to look brand new with some minor repairs and a fresh coat of gray stain.
Tables
The easiest way to update an old piece of furniture is to paint it. However, if the item is well-made and constructed of solid wood, consider restoring it to its original form with a stain.
While sanding furniture can be a hassle and takes some strength and endurance, the outcomes may be stunning. It isn’t difficult to learn how to refurbish wood furnishings — particularly a wooden table — any DIYer can do it.
Cabinetry
Staining kitchen cabinets is inexpensive and efficient, which is why it’s such a popular method for homeowners to renovate their kitchens and get the look of high-end kitchen cabinets on a budget. It’s simple to do yourself if you use the proper color stain and equipment.
Floors
Staining hardwood floors is simple, and you can complete the task successfully by following a few guidelines:
Allow plenty of time to stain the wood, as well as allow it to dry without being disturbed.
Make sure you have everything you’ll need to complete the task before starting. Need to know how much product you need? Use ZAR’s coverage calculator for those larger projects that are easy to measure.
Be ready to roll up your sleeves and get down to business by removing the present finish and getting the piece down to bare wood.
Accent Walls/Paneling
Older paneling and wainscoting is usually made of wood and can be stained to give it a fresh, modern look.
Exterior Applications
When staining outdoor wood, it is important to use a product that is weatherproof in order to withstand the elements. Many gray wood stains come with a clear sealant or polyurethane that will help protect the wood from the sun, rain and snow.
Outdoors, gray wood stains can be used to protect wood from the elements. They can also be used to enhance or modernize the look of wooden decking, fencing and other outdoor structures.
Decks and Railing
Decks are subject to a lot of usage and exposure to the elements, so they get a lot of wear and tear. It can be tempting to stain the deck’s floor and overlook the handrails, but they too require care.
Siding
The staining process is used to preserve and protect wood siding, while also improving its natural appearance. Wood stains come in various colors, from transparent coats that highlight the wood’s natural color to rich gray stains that offer a larger color palette to match exteriors.
Pergolas
A wood pergola can be a wonderful structure to reduce the amount of sunlight that warms up your wood decking. As with any outdoor wood surface, it should be stained to improve its appearance and longevity.
Trust in ZAR® for the Best Gray Wood Stain Color Options
ZAR is a trusted source for gray wood stain colors. We carry a wide range of wood stains and clear poly coatings that will work well for your interior or exterior applications. Our wood stains are formulated to protect the wood while also enhancing its natural appearance. With ZAR, you can be sure you’re getting the best gray wood stain color options available. Contact us today to find a retailer near you.
