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A finishing layer is an important step in the staining process. A top coat helps make a stain last longer by protecting it from spills, scratches, and natural weathering.

A lacquer finish is thin, fast-drying, and best used for cabinets, molding, and trim. It’s not recommended for outdoor furniture. Another option is varnish, which has a glossy finish with a protective film and is often used on outdoor wood objects. Polyurethane, known as “liquid plastic,” dries quickly but doesn’t hold up well in the heat. Lastly, a shellac finish adds a warm tint to wood but is affected by heat.

The only time that it's okay to leave a paintbrush in water overnight is when you're trying to remove dried-on paint. However, don't allow the bristles to rest on the bottom of the container. Remember that soaking it longer than necessary can damage the brush.

Because gutters are consistently exposed to elements like water and humidity, any paint applied to them will have a shorter life span than other exterior home features, like siding and shutters. In general, painted gutters will need to be touched up or completely repainted every 5 to 10 years, though you may get a couple extra years with regular care and maintenance.

While you can use wall paint on the ceiling, there are some differences between ceiling and wall paint. Ceiling paint tends to be thicker, cover discoloration better, and comes in a more limited color selection. Wall paint is thinner, holds up to regular cleaning better, and is available in an almost endless variety of colors.