Solid stain is the recommended product for rough sawn cedar and redwood when an opaque color is desired. Stain is different than paint in that it has a thinner viscosity and more easily penetrates the wood, whereas paint tends to build a thicker film over the surface. These characteristics make stain less prone to peeling and allow the natural texture and vibrancy of the wood to show through. There are both oil-base stains and acrylic stains. We recommend a 100% acrylic, self-priming stain; these formulas tend to weather better and fade less than the oil-base stains.