This post was updated on August 20, 2025
Hi, I’m Scott Paul, an exterior restoration contractor and business owner with over 30 years of experience specializing in exterior deck staining. My reviews on semi-transparent wood stains and helpful tips are backed by years of hands-on testing and my expertise in wood restoration. I’m here to guide you to the best product choices based on real-world performance. See here for more info about me.
Best Semi-Transparent Deck Stains & Sealers: Pro Picks
Whether you’re prepping an existing deck for a refresh or picking the ideal semi-transparent stain for a new addition to your home, selecting the right product is crucial for both durability and long-term visual appeal. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best semi-transparent stains of 2025 and answer some common questions to help you make the best choice for your project.
With over 30 years of experience using deck stains and reviewing them on DeckStainHelp.com since 2012, I’ve seen it all. My go-to stains have always been penetrating semi-transparent stains. Why? They last 2–3 years, don’t peel, and offer the ease of cleaning and reapplying without needing heavy power sanding or scraping. Let me help you pick the best stain for your deck that will last and look great year after year.
Why Choose a Semi-Transparent Deck Stain for Exterior Wood
- Enhances the Wood Grain: Semi-transparent stains highlight the natural beauty of the wood, allowing the grain and texture to show through while adding a subtle tint to enhance the deck’s appearance.
- Long-Lasting Protection: Provides UV protection, preventing wood from graying and protecting against moisture damage, mold, and mildew, ensuring your deck stays vibrant and durable for years.
- Ease of Maintenance: Semi-transparent stains are easy to clean and maintain. When it’s time for reapplication, the process is simple—just clean the surface and apply another coat without the need for intensive sanding or stripping.
- Choose Penetrating vs. Film-Forming: Penetrating stains are absorbed into the wood, providing deeper protection and allowing the wood to breathe. This prevents peeling and cracking over time, unlike film-forming stains that sit on top of the surface, which can peel and trap moisture, leading to damage and the need for more frequent maintenance.
Semi-Transparent Penetrating Deck Stain
How to Choose the Best Semi-Transparent Deck Stain or Sealer
1. VOC Laws Determine What Stain Can be Used
VOC (volatile organic compounds) laws have changed across the US and Canada in the past 10 years. Many states and Canada have adopted 250 Low VOC laws for exterior wood stains (architectural coatings). The good news is you can still use oil-based stains in Low VOC areas, but they must be 250 VOC compliant. The bad news is that not every brand will be available in Low VOC areas.
3. Oil-Based or Water-Based Semi-Transparent Stain
Do you want an oil-based or a water-based deck stain?
Oil-based semi-transparent Decking Stains preserve and enhance the wood’s natural color. They are easier to apply and penetrate deeper than water-based stains. Oil-based deck stains naturally shed water to help prevent warping, cracking, and splitting. Most oil stains are high VOC formulas, but you can find low VOC formulas compliant in all states and Canada.
Water-based semi-transparent Decking Stains are environmentally friendly and clean up easily with soap and water. They also do a superb job of locking out unwanted moisture and harsh UV rays to preserve all types of wood surfaces. Even though they have not been around for as long as oil stains, new technology has taken water-based stains to a new level, making them a great choice for long-lasting deck protection.
3. Always Prep Deck First for Stain
Before you apply your semi-transparent deck stain, you must prep. Prep is the most important aspect of deck staining and cannot be ignored. The most common ways to prep are Cleaning, Stripping, or Sanding. Always follow your prep with a wood brightener.
When to Clean a Deck: Using a deck cleaner for these three scenarios is best. Deck Cleaning Tips.
- New wood after weathering
- Gray or oxidized wood
- Recoating the deck with the same brand, type of stain, and color
When to Strip a Deck Stain: It is best to use a deck stain stripper if you have any of these scenarios below. Deck Stripping Tips.
- Switching stain brands that are transparent or semi-transparent
- Switching colors but of the same stain brand
- Your current coating has failed unevenly. You will need to strip to ensure the new coating applies evenly.
When to Sand a Deck: Deck sanding is not easy or fun but is needed for the instances below. How to Sand a Deck.
- Changing types of stain. Example: Switching from Solid Stain to Semi-Transparent. See How To Remove a Solid Stain
- Your Cleaning or Stripping Prep resulted in Wood Furing.
4. My 5 Best Semi-Transparent Deck Stains
See below for more information on each brand.
Penetrating semi-transparent deck stains allow the wood grain to show, and reapplying is much easier down the road if they truly soak into the wood grain. One issue is that not all semi-transparent stains are penetrating but rather film on top of the wood like paint. Stains that film on top of the wood will tend to peel and will be harder to re-coat or remove down the road.
Note: Our Top 5 semi-transparent stains are all penetrating when prepped and applied properly. Do not skip the prep steps or over-apply, as this will lead to the deck stain’s failure much faster!
Pro Testing & Ranking Process for Semi-Transparent Deck Stains
Hands-On Experience and Emphasis on Long-Term Product Performance
As restoration contractors in this business since the 1990s, we have used a vast number of stains, cleaners, strippers, and brighteners for exterior wood decks.
For deck stains, our testing occurs on surfaces exposed to weather and foot traffic. We carefully assess factors including appearance, ease or difficulty of application, mildew resistance, and color shifting. Unlike many sites that primarily generate initial opinions and make short-term assessments, our testing evaluates the performance of stains over a longer period. For example, we often review products two years after the application regarding wear and tear or “graying.”
We acknowledge that results may vary, such as based on differing climates, types of wood, and the absence or presence of UV radiation.
Contributions and Feedback From Other Industry Professionals
I have created a platform with ongoing, constructive contributions from other restoration professionals who generate articles, product assessments, and comments.
Consumer Reviews (Good and Bad)
DeckStainHelp.com is also a forum that encourages consumer feedback—either good or bad. This information provides another perspective within our interactive framework that helps create our Consumer Star Ratings, complementing our experience with the same product.
# 1 Restore-A-Deck – Best Semi-Transparent Deck Stain and Sealer
- Scott’s Pro Tips: My favorite semi-transparent deck stain to apply the same day as prep. It saves us time and money! This simple-to-apply, mildew-resistant product makes staining projects a breeze — it can be applied to damp wood and allows for easy, water-only cleaning.
Where To Find: Restore-A-Deck Semi-Transparent Stain
Pros: Damp Wood Application allows for same-day deck prep and stain application. Penetrating, semi-transparent water-based product. Easy water clean-up. Allowed in all 50 States and Canada. Excellent mildew resistance. Able to clean and recoat as needed for maintenance.
Cons: Only 5 colors.
Consumer Star Ratings:
My DeckStainHelp.com Rating (On a Scale of 1-10): 8.625
See My Review Article Here: Restore-A-Deck Wood Stain Review
How To Restore Your Deck All in One Day – DeckStainHelp.com
# 2 TWP 100 Pro Series – Best Oil-Based Semi-Transparent Deck Stain
Scott’s Pro Tips: My favorite all-time semi-transparent deck stain. My company has used this on 1000s of decks until Michigan changed their VOC laws in 2023. The oil-based, semi-transparent stain is easy to apply, allows for quick cleaning and re-coating, and comes in 10 colors to suit any home or aesthetic.
Where To Find: TWP 100 Pro Series
Pros: Penetrating semi-transparent oil-based stain. Full-curing mildew resistant stain. 10 semi-transparent colors. Easy to apply. Excellent mildew resistance. Clean and re-coat as needed for maintenance with their Gemini Restore kit prep.
Cons: Only Available in 35 States. See TWP 1500 for the Low VOC version.
Consumer Star Ratings:
My DeckStainHelp.com Rating (On a Scale of 1-10): 8.69
See My Review Article Here: TWP 100 Series Review
# 3 Armstrong Clark – Easiest to Apply Semi-Transparent Deck Stain
- Scott’s Pro Tips: My favorite easiest-to-apply semi-transparent deck stain. I use this on 50-100 decks every year. Praised for its low-effort application and rich tones, this semi-transparent stain offers significant mold and mildew resistance, is easy to clean, and can be reapplied as needed.
Where To Find: Armstrong Clark Semi-Solid
Pros: Very easy to apply. Paraffin and Curing Oil Blend. Full Curing Stain. Allowed in all 50 States and Canada. Able to clean and re-coat as needed for maintenance.
Cons: It can take a few days or longer to cure fully.
Consumer Star Ratings:
My DeckStainHelp.com Rating (On a Scale of 1-10): 8.5
See My Review Article Here: Armstrong Clark Stain Review
#4 TWP 1500 Series – Best VOC Compliant Semi-Transparent Deck Stain
- Scott’s Pro Tips: My current go-to semi-transparent deck stain for Michigan. Unlike TWP’s 100 Series stain, the TWP 1500 Series Stain is available in all 50 states and features an EPA-registered wood preservative.
Where To Find: TWP 1500 Series
Pros: Complaint in all 50 States. Penetrating Semi-Transparent Oil-Based Product. Full Curing EPA Registered Stain. EPA Registered Wood Preservative. Able to clean and re-coat as needed for maintenance.
Cons: Takes longer to dry than the TWP 100 Series
Consumer Star Ratings:
My DeckStainHelp.com Rating (On a Scale of 1-10): 8.5
See My Review Article Here: TWP 1500 Series Review
#5 Defy Extreme Stain – Best Water-Based Semi-Transparent Deck Stain
Scott’s Pro Tips: This is my second favorite water-based penetrating wood and deck stain. This mildew-resistant stain is also available throughout the country and leverages nanotechnology to ensure a rich, deeply penetrating color.
Where To Find: Defy Extreme Semi-Transparent Stain
Pros: Penetrating semi-transparent water-based stain. Nano-technology for deep penetrating. Zinc oxide prevents mildew better than most products. Allowed in all 50 States and Canada. Able to clean and re-coat as needed for maintenance.
Cons: It can be harder to apply than other brands.
Consumer Star Ratings:
My DeckStainHelp.com Rating (On a Scale of 1-10): 8.47
See My Review Article Here: Defy Extreme Stain Review
5. My Semi-Transparent Deck Stain FAQs
Still curious about the best semi-transparent deck stains for pressure-treated wood? Read on for a few answers to frequently asked questions.
What Defines the Best? It Depends on Your Needs
Choosing the “best” deck stain product requires looking closely at the specific factors involved in the job. In making this determination, some of the questions to answer include:
- Are there extreme weather conditions in the region, such as summers with dramatic heat and humidity or frigid winters with snow and ice?
- Is the deck exposed to prolonged periods of direct sunlight?
- What are the state’s restrictions on products containing moderate to high volatile organic compounds (VOCs)?
- Is the surface painted?
- Does the surface contain imperfections that you want to hide?
Why Semi-Transparent Stains?
One differentiating characteristic among the stains used for wood decks is transparency or opacity, which includes products categorized as clear, transparent, semi-transparent, semi-solid, and solid.
The best semi-transparent deck stains penetrate well, which is critical for achieving a sharp appearance and forming a barrier of protection from the elements. Both water-based and oil-based semi-transparent options are available today. In general, oil-based products demonstrate better results.
The Best Semi-Transparent Stain Applications
Semi-transparent stains generally offer a balance between creating a layer of protective coverage and revealing and highlighting the surface’s natural wood grain. Semi-transparent stains are usually good options for surfaces with few imperfections or to revive previously stained decks that have become weathered.
Less-Suitable Applications for Semi-Transparent Stains
Semi-transparent stains are not for use on painted surfaces, are typically available in fewer colors, and will not hide major surface imperfections.
How does the Behr Premium Semi-Transparent Deck Stain stack up?
Despite its popularity, I found that the BEHR PREMIUM® Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Stain & Sealer indicated that it may not be the best option for those searching for a long-lasting, easy-to-apply stain. You can read more about it in my review of the BEHR PREMIUM® semi-transparent stain.
Do you recommend penetrating semi-transparent stains?
As mentioned above, my favorite stains have always been semi-transparent deck stains. Instead of sitting on top of your wood deck like a solid stain, penetrating stains soak into the wood’s pores, typically resulting in greater longevity and enhanced protection. Learn more about why I recommend penetrating, semi-transparent deck stains in this guide.
Did you review the Sherwin Williams SuperDeck Semi-Transparent Deck Stain?
Yes! You can find my review of the Sherwin Williams SuperDeck semi-transparent stain here.
What do you think about the Valspar One-Coat Semi-Transparent Exterior Deck Stain?
In our opinion, the Valspar One-Coat Semi-Transparent Stain & Sealer leaves a lot to be desired. The application was splotchy at best, with significant UV damage and wear and tear over time. Read more of my thoughts in my review of the Valspar One-Coat Semi-Transparent Stain & Sealer.
What’s the Best Applicator for a Semi-Transparent Deck Stain?
The best way to apply a deck stain can vary depending on the product used, but we typically recommend stain brushes, stain flooring brushes, deck sprayers, or stain pads.
6. Semi-Transparent Deck Stain Photos
My Deck Stain Reviews Rating Video
7. Need Help? Semi-Transparent Deck Stain Questions?
When choosing a semi-transparent deck stain, you should consider the deck’s characteristics, condition, and factors, including direct sunlight exposure, climate, and anticipated traffic. The stain’s appearance and long-term performance are heavily dependent on how well the product absorbs (penetrates). Oil-based semi-transparent stains often outperform their water-based counterparts; however, those in states with strict “VOC laws” may find very few oil-based options.
Prep or Stain Help? Please ask me below if you have questions about my semi-transparent deck stain reviews or need help choosing a semi-transparent stain. Just post a comment below and include as much information as possible.
Summary: Semi Transparent Stains for Decks
Semi transparent stains offer the perfect balance between color enhancement and wood grain visibility, making them a top choice for deck restoration. These stains penetrate the wood to provide moisture and UV protection while allowing the natural texture to show through. In 2025, leading semi transparent deck stains include Restore-A-Deck, Armstrong Clark, and TWP 100 Series — each offering long-lasting performance, easy application, and rich, natural finishes.
Hi Scott, is a high of 50 degrees and sun in PA too cold to apply semi-transparent stain? I’ve already cleaned and brightened. Thanks for the help!
That varies based on the stain brand. Best to check their directions.
It’s the restore-a-deck semi transparent cedar – it says 45 degrees I believe but if is a little too cold how will affect the staining long-term?
It needs to be around 50 during application and for drying after of 4-6 hours. It also should not drop in the 30s the first night after staining. If in the sun, it will dry faster then full shade.
Hi Scott. I just had a new cedar fence installed that I need to stain. I live in Houston, so I need something that will protect from high heat, UV and humidity. I would like to preserve the look of the natural wood, but I don’t want a semi-transparent stain where the color would have a yellowish or an orange cast to it. I’d also like a stain that would last as long as possible, and also use a stain that I can stain over in the future without much effort when that needs to be done. The cedar boards have some roughness to them. Thank you!
Any of the semi-transparent stains we mention in this article would work. I would suggest getting samples to test the color from the brands mentioned.
Hi Scott –
Thanks so much for this wonderful website!
I have an 8-month-old deck that runs the length of my house. My house is in the mountains of SC, in a temperate rain forest, so we have quite a bit of rain. The deck is on the NW side of the house. Half of the deck gets full sun but the other half receives only a few hours of direct sunlight, due to trees, so the horizontal portions of the pine deck are not drying/aging at the same rate.
My questions are:
– Which semitransparent stain or solid stain do you recommend?
– Should the stain be oil or water based?
– Should I stain the “dry” portion first and wait until the “green” wood dries? Or should I wait until all portions are dry.
Thank you again for sharing your time and knowledge.
-TWP 100 Series or Restore-A-Deck Stain
-Either would work as long as they both (above two are) penetrating stains.
-Stain all once.
Thank you so much! I really appreciate your quick response.
I am building a new home and have had the structure of my deck installed for a few months. I am using timber tech deck boards but I would like to protect the posts beams and other structure – without waiting till the uber-expensive decking is in place to get ruined by stain. I live in a temperate rain forest (NC mountains) so I don’t see how it is ever going to get dry. Is there a reason I cant stain my structural wood now with a penetrating transparent or semi-transparent stain?
There is no need to stain framing, beams, or posts outside of aesthetic purposes.
Thanks! So, if stain/sealer helps prolong the functional life of wood outdoors, why is it not needed on structural parts? Considering that the decking is expected to last a long time – I don’t want the structure rotting out from under the decking.
Exterior stains protect against UV graying, water, etc. They are effective if exposed to sun, water, etc. Your framing is already treated internally against rot and decay. Coating it with a stain will not have any additional long-term effect against rot.
Ok. Thanks for taking the time to explain. 🙂
what is your opinion of Messmer’s semi transparent stain. My redwood deck has been sanded down to bare wood again, so like new. My guy has been advocating for PPG with polyurethane top coat, but I am concerned about this product as I’ve always been led to believe, as you suggest, that a penetrating oil stain is best. I live in CO, so am somewhat limited by VOC regulations. I do see a store close by that offers the TWP 1500 series. Again, though, what is your opinion of Messmer’s UV Plus Semi Transparent? Thank you, Karen
Messmers review:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/messmers-uv-plus-wood-stain-review/
Your guy doesn’t understand exterior wood. You can never apply a poly over an exterior stain or ever use a poly outside, it will peel horribly and create a nightmare to fix.
TWP 1500 Series is a superior product.
I used Defy on my deck a couple of years ago, and I’m getting ready to “recoat”. Are there any additives available that you would recommend to help prevent wood boring insects from causing damage? It is a pressure treated wood deck. Thanks.
Sorry, but I do not know of anything that will work with boring insects.
Hi, what type of prep do you recommend for new tough and groove pine porch ceiling? I will be staining before installing.
Thanks!
Also in Michigan!
You need to weather and prep it. Spring would be best if brand new. Tips for new wood:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/how-long-should-you-wait-to-stain-a-new-deck/
Hi Scott. I have a brand new deck built in April. I need to stain it to preserve it. I want to be able to see the wood grain. Which stain would you suggest for Massachusetts? The deck gets full sun. I want something that will last.
Thanks.
Hello,
See new wood tips here: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/how-long-should-you-wait-to-stain-a-new-deck/
Look at Restore-A-Deck Semi-Transparent or Armstrong Clark Stains.
Scott, what’s with these all look alike sites:
http://www.deckstainhelp.com
http://www.opwdecks.com/
http://www.defystain.com/
http://www.armstrongclarkstain.com/
http://www.twpstain.com/
We have full transparency on this website. Very first article on the home page, below every article on every page, and in the sidebar at the top of every page if on a desktop. Just read about who we are and who I am, and it will explain in full detail:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/about-deckstainhelp-com/
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/author/administrator/
what do you have to say about the following comparison?
It is a very old article. We are actually testing the Cutek this Fall and will be posting results as early as next Spring.
Hi Scott,
Thank you for your reviews. We have a short pine fence that is a year-old now that we would like to semi-transparent stain in the color green. Live in Wisconsin. It doesn’t appear that your top five stains have any green colors. Do you have a suggestion for another brand we can look at? Thank you.
Sorry, but there is not going to be a “green” color in any quality exterior wood stain that is semi-transparent. To achieve this, you would have to custom-tint, and that means it will be a film-forming acrylic stain, not a penetrating stain.
Thank you!
Another attempt to get your thoughts. I have a railing which needs to be re-coated, but do not know what it has been painted with. I tried a test area with a a bit of TWP wood stain. It did not penetrate and stayed wet until the next day where I could wipe it off. This means it has some type of sealer on it. Was wondering if I could use the paint stripper on this to get back to just a stain or would I be better trying to find what has been used before and just give it a sanding and another coat. Will try again to add some pictures.
Need pics. FYI, TWP cannot be applied over a stain of a different brand.
Hi Scott,
The fence I’m building is in Indiana and it’s Cedar. What do you suggest for stain/sealer wise that you won’t have to apply every 2-3 years and will make it have a natural cedar look or maybe just a bit darker. Thank you!
Is the wood rough-cut or smooth? It matters as to when you can stain it.
Hi Scott – Also looking for a product like Super Deck weathering stain for cedar. I believe this was discontinued, but it was a Sherwin Williams product that protects the wood, and allows it to weather to a silvery grey (and gives it a head start). Can you recommend something similar?
Try TWP 1500 Series in clear.
Hi Scott – Looks like this stain is for preserving the wood’s natural color. I am looking for a weathering stain that will allow it to patina to a silvery grey while protecting the wood, or a semi transparent stain in a weathered grey color that you might suggest. Thank you!
The TWP 1500 Series in “Clear” option (at bottom in picture) has no UV protection and will gray naturally. All true “clears” will gray naturally, as it must be tinted to prevent graying.
Really great info. I thank you so much for your advice.
Hello – Can you recommend a vendor for pre-stained tongue and groove nickel gap cedar siding in upstate NY?
No, not sure what you are trying to do, but you cannot stain or seal if it is already pre-stained.
Hi Scott – on a time crunch and looking to install cedar T&G nickel gap siding for soffits. Wanting to stain all sides for best protection, so considering a pre-finished material from somewhere. Just spoke with Legacy Pre-Finishing, and their material is kiln dried before they stain. They use Cabbot, or Flood PPG (not sure if you like those products). I’ve used Restore A Deck with great success on another project, so I am familiar with that product. I’ve been reading here about new wood, and needing to wait months before staining, and I don’t know if I have that luxury on this project. Trying to find a solution for the client. We could use rough sawn material which I believe could be stained asap, or go with a pre-finished solution that I’d order. For future maintenance, I suppose I’d suggest they use the same product that the factory used (Cabbot or Flood PPG)? I’ve never ordered pre-finished material before, so not sure if this is a good idea. Would love to know your thoughts.
If using rough sawn, then yes, you can stain right away. You would be better off doing this than using prestained wood.
I want to stain outdoor wooden table top. Under a tree so bird poop and leaves need to be cleaned. What do you recommend
Pics?
Hi Scott what do you think of the Cabot Australian timber oil? Thank you!
Cabot used to make great stains, but they sold to Zinser about 15 years ago, and they changed all the formulas. We are not fans:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/cabot-australian-timber-oil-review/
I used Armstrong Clark Semi-Transparent Wood Stain in Cedar color on my fence. I miscalculated the amount needed and have 4 unopened cans left over. Can these be stored in my cool, dark basement and be used for the next staining, which I assume will be in about 2 – 3 years? Also, thanks for your fantastic site–so helpful!!
The shelf life for unopened stain is about 3 years, so you should be okay. Mix well, as pigment does settle.
Used Super Deck 6 years ago on Spa redwood siding and it seems to have held up well. Not easy to find oil base anymore in California. Is it okay to use a water base on top of the six-year-old Super Deck? What do you recommend for California?
No, you have to remove it first no matter what if switching stain brands or types of base. Use this kit for prep:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/product/restore-a-deck-stripper-brightener-kit/
I have new pressure treated lumber deck and want to use semi transparent stain. TWP says wait 4 months which I really do not want to do. Is it possible to use another product earlier? Live in Ohio and deck gets direct morning sun but has a cedar pergola.
You have to wait and prep. Doesn’t matter the stain brand:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/how-long-should-you-wait-to-stain-a-new-deck/
I have a mtn cabin. It has 10” pine siding. Its about 20yrs old. It is in excellent condition. I pressure washed & cleaned it last year for the 1st time. I want to restain it. I was told to use pro luxe semi transparent stain (with some tint color) the whole house is covered with a walk around porch. However i am confused because I do not see pro luxe in the top brand of stains anywhere yet the price is high. I was going to use flood solid stain for railings & soffit. Your recommendation ? Timotjy
Any of the brands in the above article are much better than the Pro Luxe. Try TWP 1500 Series or Armstrong Clark Stains.
Make sure all previous coatings are removed.
What is your opinion on “Preserva wood” semi-transparent oil base penetrating stain. It’s a west coast brand so you may not even know if it. I used it on my redwood back yard fence as well as my cedar fencing out front. The cedar still looks great at the 4 year mark and needs nothing. i’m only going to refresh the redwood as it just recently started to tell me it’s the right thing to do. 4 years ago it was 250 voc, Now I see it’s 100voc for the same brand and color. Don’t know if the quality is the same. One other question. What cleaner brightened for you recommend that’s available in California.
We have heard of it but have not used it. Customers who have used and commented on this site have mixed reactions. Most quality exterior stains on a fence should last around 4-6 years. Typically, when you lower the VOCs, you remove the solvents and add more solids. This relates to longer curing and drying times. We have not had any feedback on the 100 VOC version.
Not sure what cleaner and brightener you can pick up locally in CA. If you want to order online, get the Restore A Deck Kits.
I have a 36′ x 16 PT deck that’s been sitting for about 8 month. I was wondering since it is pretty long do you recommend staining one board at a time to keep a wet edge?
This will vary based on the stain brand and type of stain as some are more forgiving than others. To be safe, keeping a wet edge is best to prevent overlaps.
Best semitransparent for new deck
See here about new wood: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/how-long-should-you-wait-to-stain-a-new-deck/
Just got a new redwood fence installed today. Fence installer says water based penetrating stains are more durable than oil based. Neighbors home contractor feels the same way. I thought the oil based would be better and the local ACE and Sherwin-Williams employees say oil based will protect better. I’m confused. I live in Livermore,CA. In summer it is hot and dry. ACE is telling me to wait several months to let the new wood “cure” before applying. Fence guy says waiting a couple of weeks will be enough. If my neighbor whom I share the fence chooses water based will that impact me choosing oil based or vice versa? Please discuss oil based penetrating semi transparent stains vs water based semi transparent stains.
One is not better than the other as both will work well as long as you are using one of the top brands on our list. Stay away from the stain brands sold at Ace or SW unless they offer one of the brands we suggest.
Awesome site! I’m wondering what semi-transparent stain you would recommend for a deck that gets severe sun exposure for most of the year. Thanks!
If the colors are similar, all the semi-transparent stains we suggest will last about the same. The main difference will be color or opacity. For example, a darker or richer color will provide longer UV protection than lighter colors. With opacity, semi-solid colors will give better UV protection than any semi-transparent color.
Hey Scott! I’m so glad i just happened to run across your site! So much useful info. This past April 2024, i had all the boards on the front of our pole barn replaced. It now has rough sawn oak and it’s time to get a protective coating on it. The front of the barn gets full sun all year. This summer was exceptionally hot. I’m in middle Tennessee. I’d like to stain with a warm natural color, but nothing yellow. What color do you recommend, which of your favorite oil products and which method of application do you recommend. I’ll include a picture.
Try TWP 1500 Series or Armstrong Clark Stains for this. Maybe a mediuem brown color.