Finish Systems & Stain
Subject: The Finish on Your Structure: What It Does and Why It Matters
Hi [First Name],
The finish on your timber frame does more than set the color. It is the first line of defense against UV, moisture, and weathering — and it plays a major role in how your structure looks and ages over time.
One thing worth knowing upfront: the pre-stained finish is included in your kit price. You are not paying for bare timber and then budgeting for stain on top. Every kit ships finished and ready to install.
01
Why the Finish Matters
Timber is a natural material. Without protection, UV exposure breaks down the surface, moisture causes swelling and checking, and the original color fades. A quality finish system slows all of that down significantly.
The right finish does three things at once: it protects the wood from the elements, it enhances the natural grain and warmth of the timber, and it extends the time between maintenance cycles.
Every structure we build is finished before it ships. That means the stain is applied in a controlled environment — not in your yard, not in the weather, and not by a painter working on a ladder.
1-Minute Watch
02
Stain Options
Choose the tone that fits your space
Every kit is finished with Sherwin-Williams exterior stain — applied in our shop before it ships. The product provides a long-lasting, mildew-resistant coating with excellent penetration for protecting exterior wood surfaces. It delivers strong water repellency and UV protection, and it is formulated to handle the unique tint and moisture of pressure-treated lumber.
Here are the standard stain colors and bleach-over-time swatches available for your kit:
Standard Stains
White
Natural
Beach Sand
Wild Olive
Early American
Canyon Grey
Rich Cordoba
Rich Sequoia
Black
Bleach Finishes
The bleach finish gives timber a light, sun-washed tone — and because the wood is bleached rather than stained, no restaining is required. This finish is done.
Bleached
Bleached finish example
A stain is more than a color choice — it helps define the architectural presence of the structure, its relationship to surrounding materials, and how it weathers through the seasons.
03
Factory Finish vs. Field Finish
There is a meaningful difference between a finish applied in a controlled shop environment and one applied on site after assembly. Both can work, but they produce different results.
| Factory Finish (Ours) | Field Finish | |
|---|---|---|
| Environment | Controlled — no wind, dust, or humidity variables | On site — weather and conditions vary |
| Coverage | Every surface, including hidden joints and end grain | Exposed surfaces only — hard to reach once assembled |
| Consistency | Even application across every timber | Varies by applicator, weather, and timing |
| Timing | Ships ready to install — no additional wait | Adds time and cost after assembly |
| Cost | Included in kit price | Separate contractor expense |
Because we finish every timber before it ships, the end grain and interior joint surfaces are sealed — areas that are impossible to reach once the structure is assembled. This is where moisture intrusion typically starts, and it is the part most field finishes miss entirely.
04
Choosing the Right Stain for Your Project
The best stain choice depends on a few things: the color and material of your home exterior, the amount of direct sun your structure will get, the overall look you are going for, and how the structure will be seen from your main living spaces.
If you are unsure which direction to go, send us a photo of your home exterior and the area where the structure will stand. We will walk you through the options and help you narrow it down.
The finish is one of those details that makes a real difference in how your structure looks and lasts. And because it is included in the kit price, it is one less thing you need to coordinate on your end.
If you have questions about stain options or want to see samples, we’re here to help. I’d be happy to walk you through what works best for your home and climate.
Looking forward to helping you create a space you’ll love for years to come,
[Name]
Western Timber Frame
[Phone] | [Email] | westerntimberframe.com
Western Timber Frame, Inc.
Winner — 2026 U.S. Small Business Administration
Utah Manufacturing Small Business of the Year