Is there any difference in the quality, color and durability of low VOC water-based stains versus oil-based stains?
Over the past few years almost all new innovations in coating technology have been in low VOC water-based systems. This new technology has allowed the development of high quality products like our LIFELINE brand stains and Advance Topcoats that not only look great but meet all of the requirements of a log home. Recent advances in polymers, UV light inhibitors and mildewcides have significantly improved the look, longevity and performance of water-based coating systems. For those manufacturers like Perma-Chink Systems willing to make the investment, this new technology has allowed us to develop water-based products that look better, last longer and outperform the best oil-based product ever made. On the other hand, one way that high VOC oil-based coating manufacturers have lowered their VOC content is to add fillers such as calcium carbonate to their coatings. The subsequent reduction in solvent content has, in most cases, decreased the attractiveness and performance of these products.
