Hi, I’m Scott Paul. With over 30 years of experience staining both new and old decks, I’ve built a career around helping homeowners protect and enhance their wood surfaces. My reviews of exterior wood stains and helpful tips on deck staining are grounded in decades of hands-on testing and my work as a professional wood restoration contractor.
- Choose between semi-transparent, semi-solid, or solid stain based on your deck's wear level and wood condition.
- TWP Semi-Solid Pro-Series and Armstrong-Clark Semi-Solid are top recommended stains for restoring older, dried-out wood decks.
- Always repair rotten or loose boards before staining, checking underneath the deck where rot typically starts first.
- Proper prep using a deck cleaner, stripper, or sanding depends on the existing coating condition and wear level.
- Penetrating stains are best for old decks because they absorb into wood, avoid peeling, and are much easier to reapply later.
- Re-clean and re-stain your deck every two years to maintain appearance, extend its life, and avoid costly replacement.
Everything I share is designed to guide you toward the best product choices for your project. For more about my background and expertise, feel free to read more about me here.
What is the Best Stain for an Old Wood Deck?
I appreciate you visiting Deckstainhelp.com as we continue to be your go-to source for the latest deck restoration news and trending topics through 2026. Below, we mention some tips for restoring an old, neglected wood deck. Questions? Feel free to leave a comment below with any pictures you may have.
✅ What Is the Best Stain for an Old Deck? (Quick Answer)
The best stain for an old deck is typically a penetrating semi-transparent or semi-solid stain, depending on the condition of the wood. These stains soak into the wood, provide protection without peeling, and are easier to maintain over time.
- Light wear: Semi-transparent stain
- Moderate wear: Semi-solid stain
- Heavy wear: Solid stain or resurfacing coating
For a full breakdown of top-performing products, see our guide to the best deck stain for all wood conditions.
Old Wood Decking
Best Overall Semi-Solid Wood/Deck Stain | Easiest to Apply Semi-Solid Wood/Deck Stain |
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My Recommended Stains for Old Decks
TWP Semi-Solid Pro-Series
Total Wood Protectant (TWP) makes a Pro-Series Semi-Solid that is pretty easy to apply and is among the best stains for an older deck. TWP now offers the stain in 30 custom-made colors, such as Appalachian Trail, Cedar Chest, Driftwood, and Stonehenge.
This stain effectively prevents mold and mildew because it repels water very well. The formula keeps water from penetrating the wood and causing cracking or splitting, which is also helpful in preventing freeze damage in Northern areas with frigid winters.
Overall, TWP stains remain among the best and the low-VOC variety is permitted throughout all of the U.S. and Canada.
Armstrong-Clark Semi-Solid
Based on my positive experience, it’s no surprise that The Armstrong-Clark Company has been producing wood stains for decades. Armstrong-Clark’s Semi-Solid is very easy to apply and contains a special Paraffin and Curing Oil mix, making it one of the best stains for an old deck.
The formula contains non-drying oils that penetrate deeply and help older decks regain much of their original appearance. The stain also has drying oils that remain on the wood surface to prevent damage from the elements.
The stain is permitted in all U.S. states and Canada and is limited to five colors: Mountain Cedar, Woodland Brown, Oxford Brown, Sequoia, and Espresso.
An Easy Guide to Staining an Old Wood Deck
Wood decks can be a beautiful addition to any property but can become an eyesore when neglected. Sun and water damage occurs when a deck is neglected for too long. The wood loses its natural oils and becomes very dry and porous. Cracking, splitting, warping, and graying are all signs of an old deck that has not been protected against weathering.
✅ How to Choose a Stain for an Old Deck
Lightly Weathered Deck
- Wood still looks decent
- Minimal cracking or splintering
👉 Use semi-transparent stain
Moderately Worn Deck
- Some discoloration and wear
👉 Use semi-solid stain
Heavily Worn Deck
- Cracking, splintering, uneven surface
👉 Use solid stain or resurfacer
My Steps To Restoring Old Decks
- Make any Needed Repairs
- Weather New Deck Boards
- Prep the Old Deck for Stain
- Staining the Old Deck
- Maintaining the Old Deck
- Need Help? Ask me Below for Tips
#1 Repair the Old Deck
Do a thorough look over for any rotten boards and replace them. Check for loose boards and railings and tighten these up as well with decking screws or galvanized nails. Check the foundation and decking supports for any structural damage.
My Pro Tip: Boards rot from the bottom up, so look under your deck for signs of wood rot.
#2 Weather the New Deck Boards
If you replace any rotten deck boards with new smooth decking, they cannot be stained right after installation. The decking is not porous enough to accept the stain, which prevents the stain from properly penetrating the wood. Most stain manufacturers suggest waiting a few months for the new boards to season. See my new wood tips here: Staining a New Deck.
My Pro Tip: Ink stamps on new boards. Lightly hand sand those off before weathering the new wood.
#3 Prepping the Old Deck for Stain
There are 3 main options for prepping your old deck, and the current condition determines which direction to go in. If you are unsure, see this article for more info: Prepping a Wood Deck: Clean, Strip, or Sand.
✅ Prep Tips for Old Decks
- Remove all failing coatings
- Clean and brighten the wood
- Replace severely damaged boards
- Allow proper drying before staining
Clean and Brighten the Deck
My Pro Tip: Best When Removing Oxidation/Graying
It is not impossible to bring old gray wood back to life. A little care and maintenance can revive the most neglected decks. If the deck is still in good structural condition, the grayed wood can be cleaned using a wood deck cleaner.
Use a scrub brush or pressure washer with the deck cleaner to remove unwanted mold, mildew, dirt, and graying. The transformation of washing an old deck back to clean again can be amazing. After using a wood cleaner, it is important to use a wood brightener. While the wood is still wet, apply a wood brightener to the surface to enhance the wood’s beauty and open the wood pores for better stain penetration.
Strip and Brighten the Deck
My Pro Tip: Strip the deck if you have an old clear, transparent, or semi-transparent stain that has failed unevenly.
To remove old deck stains from the wood, you have to use a deck stripper. A quality deck stripper will break up and soften any old decking stain, allowing it to be washed away with a pressure washer. Once the deck has been prepped with a stripper and the old deck stain is gone, a wood brightener is necessary to brighten and neutrlaize the stripper, restoring the pH of the wood.
Sand The Deck
My Pro Tip: Sand the deck if trying to remove an old, peeling, solid color stain.
Most deck strippers will not remove solid stains or paints. If this is the case, you may have to sand the old stain to return to bare wood again. See these tips on deck sanding: How To Sand an Old Deck.
#4 Staining the Old Deck
Apply Penetrating Wood Stain
✅ Why Penetrating Stains Are Best for Old Decks
Penetrating stains absorb into the wood instead of sitting on the surface. This allows them to:
- Avoid peeling and cracking
- Wear naturally over time
- Be easier to reapply
- Handle older, more porous wood better
My Pro Tip: Choose a Semi-Solid Stain to hide imperfections in the old decking.
Once the deck dries, choose the best stain for an old deck. Because old wood decks are significantly dried out, a wood stain that conditions the wood is essential. We use stains like Armstrong Clark or TWP Wood Stains for an old deck. This type of wood stain contains non-drying penetrating oils that help rejuvenate the wood cells. These conditioning oils stay deep in the wood to replace the wood’s lost natural oils.
The stain also contains drying oils that separate from the conditioning oils. These drying oils remain on the exposed surface to cure locking in the conditioning oils and provide protection against weathering. This conditioning of the wood’s cellular structure and weather protection are the keys to reviving an older wood deck.
#5 Maintain Every 2 Years
Repeat the cleaning and staining of the wood every two years to maintain its appearance and extend its life.
Many deck owners think an old deck may have to be torn down and a new one built to replace it. This is not always the case. Old decks can be cleaned and coated with stains designed to rejuvenate old wood. It may be possible to bring your old wood deck back to life and get many more years of use.
#6 Need Help? Old Deck Staining Questions?
Prep or Stain Help? Please ask me below if you have questions about my old deck staining tips or need help choosing a stain. Just post a comment below and include as much information as possible.
✅ What to Avoid on an Old Deck
- Film-forming coatings (prone to peeling)
- Over-applying stain
- Transparent stains on heavily worn wood
- Skipping prep before staining
Older Deck Staining FAQs
What is the best stain for a 10-year-old deck?
Usually, a semi-solid or solid stain, depending on wear.
Can you stain over old deck stain?
Only if the old stain is compatible and not failing—otherwise stripping is required.
What type of stain lasts the longest on old decks?
Semi-solid penetrating stains last longer on the surface.
Should you use transparent stain on an old deck?
Only if the wood is still in very good condition.
This is a very insightful and informative site. I am always apprehensive when I source painters to work on my deck as it is nearly 30 years old and is mostly in the shade so mildew is an infernal annoying issue. In a perfect deck improving world I would rather use a transparent stain but not confident about the aesthetic outcome and is a semi solid suitable from a maintenance standpoint considering the winter snow, rain, and shade? Thanks for any input! Tilda
The current stain looks like a solid stain (or close to it), so that will need to be fully removed first. You should strip and brighten all wood. Look at the Restore-A-Deck Stripper kits with both additives. See this for more info:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/restore-a-deck-stain-stripper-booster-thickening-gel-review/
Once the old stain has been removed fully, look at a penetrating semi-transparent stain like Restore-A-Deck or Armstrong Clark.
Do you have experience with the Novausawood Exoshield product? It has tung oil and is marine rated. Also much more expensive.
Sorry but no, we do not.
I have read a lot of articles and I’m confused, 🤔 we have an oil based semi transparent on our 27 year old deck, and it didn’t last a year. I was told a water based stain was best, I just want something that looks good for 2 to 3 years, we have power washed the deck and I now plan on sanding it, and fixing a board that has rotted. What would be the best stain?
Make sure you remove the oil-based stain fully. You may need to redo with a stripper and a brightener to remove all. We do not suggest sanding. See here:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/why-sanding-a-deck-can-be-an-issue/
Try Restore-A-Deck Semi-transparent stain after:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/restore-a-deck-wood-stain-review/
I have a pressure treated deck 30 years old.
I power washed and sanded it and it’s ready for a deck stain.
I have read reviews for multiple different brands and there is negative reviews on all of them.
I am levitating towards the super deck water base semi solid because I like the color (cedar bark) .
Any input would be greatly appreciated.
If you want a solid stain, look at these top brands, not Super Deck:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/what-are-the-best-solid-color-deck-stains/
Thank you for the encouraging words! Is there a penetrating stain that also protects against both water and uv rays?
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/best-semi-transparent-deck-stain-reviews/
Re: redwood deck restore in CO: forgot to mention that I used diluted orange degreaser to clean. Wet first, sprayed on orange cleaner, then pressure washed.
Restoring a 30+ yr old deck and 20 yr old railing/spindles, all redwood. In Colorado, part sun, part shade. So far just pressure washed – photos attached show before & after side by side, and railing + deck after. Deck still shows some wear, railing is better. What do you recommend for next steps and finishing coat(s)?
Finish prep of all wood with the Restore A Deck Cleaner and Brightener kits. Stain with Restore A Deck Stain or Armstrong Clark Stains.
Hi Scott, I live on the west coast of Canada (lots of rain) and my vinyl-coated deck is 20 years old. My question has to do with under the deck. Although not directly exposed to rain, the dampness over the years has cause the wood to grey and become very weathered. What is the best stain to apply under the deck to extend its life. The joists are and plywood are still in decent shape.
Make sure to clean and brighen wood first. Stain with TWP 200 Series or Restore A Deck Stains.
We don’t have those brands in my Canadian city. We do have Minwax, Olympic, Behr, Varathane, Penofin and Watco. Any of these a good runner-up to your recommendation? {I prefer not to order online.} Thanks Scott.
No, they are poor deck stains. Varathanr and Minwax are interior products and cannot be used on decks.
I am a handyman by trade. Sometimes I do charity work as well. In my case, There is somone with a very limited budget whom I would like to help out. It is old pressure treated 2×6. A bit weathered with some moss, and that, but in otherwise good condition. She wants an oil based stain, and something light in color… What is the cheapest of the best that is affordable to do this? Thanks
Try TWP 100 or 1500 Series.
Thanks! She had a little to spend, so we got the modified oil hybrid Cabot brand, semi solid bc it was readily available at the local Ace hardware stores. Great product, but a little more expensive than something from home depot…
Hopefully, it works out for her as it is not the best brand or product.
my deck is 20 years I maintain it every two years I painted it two years ago with regular paint what should I put on it now to maintain it because the pain is coming off
You can only use a paint over a paint, never a deck stain. It is not suggested to ever paint a deck as it peels. If you want to fix this, you would have to sand it all off.
I have an 18 yr old pressure treated deck that I just sanded down to bare wood. I’m looking for a semi transparent stain. I’m looking for a product that I don’t have to take down to bare wood when it comes to re-applying in a couple years. What do you recommend?
Try Restore A Deck semi-transparent stains.
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/restore-a-deck-wood-stain-review/
or Armstrong Clark Stains: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/armstrong-clark-wood-deck-stain-review/
We have a 20-year old deck, half of which gets a lot of sun and half of which is mostly in the shade. The deck planks and handrails on the sunny side are showing some cracks, and the parts in the shade tend to get mildew. Deck was last stained in 2020 using Behr semi-transpartent stain and sealant penetrating oil (color 4629, chocolate). Am looking to re-stain this summer. Would like to use a stain that will protect the wood better than the Behr (in terms of water repelling and retaining color) and ideally not require the use of a stripper when reapplying moving forward. Am considering using Restore-A-Deck cleaner and brightener, followed by an Armstrong-Clark semi-transparent stain. Would I also need to use a stripper to remove the existing Behr penetrating oil stain? And do you think we’d be better off going with a semi-solid or even a solid stain, given the cracks? (If we use a solid stain, we’ll probably go with Restore-A-Deck solid in brown oak.) Thanks in advance for your advice and thanks for this forum. This information enables much more informed decision-making and subsequent headache avoidance.
You have to remove the Behr first if switching brands of semi-transparent. Post some pics for help with this.
Weird. I went through the motions of attaching a picture to my post. Let’s try again…
Nothing. Your pics are probably too large in size.
I reduced the resolution by 50%; I see it below the text field so presumably this resized picture will come through. Fingers crossed…
Use the Restore A Deck Stripper/Brightener kits but will both additives for the stripper: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/restore-a-deck-stain-stripper-booster-thickening-gel-review/
Got it – thanks! We’re considering a semi-transparent Armstrong-Clark or TWP 1500 stain. Do you think we’d be better off using a semi-solid or even a solid stain, given the cracks?
No, you can use a sem-transparent stain.
Thanks again. Much appreciated!
I have an old deck. I last used Behr solid waterproofing stain and sealer. It looked great until after this third winter it started peeling. Ive power washed. Most of the deck is ok. Should I use the same product again?
No, try one of these solid stains. The Restore A Deck Solid is the best.
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/what-are-the-best-solid-color-deck-stains/
I’ve looked and looked on your site for the 2 questions I asked 7 or 8 weeks ago, but can’t find them. Please tell me again what is the lowest pressure I can use to pressure wash the cleaner and brightener off my deck? Thank you again.
1200-1500.
Have a 17-year-old pressured treated pine deck on a freshwater lake in Florida. Full sun and humidity year-round. Was treated with Olympic Maximum clear oil-based sealer 2 years ago. We wanted to go with a semi-transparent or solid stain. What’s the best products/process to restore? Does it need to be stripped, or just pressure washed and cleaned?
Strip and brighten for prep. Try the Restore A Deck Stripper/Brightener Kits. Stain with one of these brands: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/best-semi-transparent-deck-stain-reviews/
Thank you for the quick reply. The wood is very dry and it doesn’t appear there is any of the previous sealer left. Do we still need to strip it?
There is definitely stain in your pictures on the wood so yes, you must strip it off.
Thanks – what sealing product do you think will give us the longest life with least maintenance on a Florida lake with full sun? Semi transparent, solid, or a deck sealer?
TWP Stains or Armstrong Clark in semi-transparent or semi-solid colors.
Thank you. I appreciate the advice
Good review you gave me just what i was looking for with out all the bull
Photo for review.
Pressure wash for prep and use a solid stain for the rails: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/what-are-the-best-solid-color-deck-stains/
I have a 15 year old trex deck with wooden spindles. Spindles stained once about 13 years ago. Now some peeling and cracking in the larger pieces. What should I do?
We have an old pressure-treated deck that has never been painted or stained that we can tell (bought the house 2 years ago). Pressure washed about 20 years’ worth of gunk off the entire thing and getting ready to apply semi-transparent stain (light grey). Having never done this before and reading your recommendations, it seems using a deck brightener would be best next step before staining. Do I need to use a cleaner (before brightening)?
Is there a reputable semi-transparent deck stain product you recommend that doesn’t require an online purchase? I’d prefer to buy in-person. Crazy, I know.
Thank you for this website! Very helpful!
All stains we suggest can be bought at stores, you can just ask the manufacturer as to where to buy and available locally. Clean and brighten for prep.
We have a lot of cracks and some splintering, will the deck stain act as a glue for future splintering, we of course would need to sand the really rough spots but wondered if the product you reccomend would help us fo minimal sanding or do we need to go with a deck coating product thats thick and more like a paint? Id rather have a more natural look than what the thicker products produce, but don’t want future splintering. Deck was very neglected when we purchased.
Deck stains will not prevent splintering unless a very thick resurface coating like this. https://www.deckstainhelp.com/gulf-synthetics-deck-revive-review-2015/
Thanks for the quick response and recomendation
Our deck is approximately 20 years old. But still in good shape ever year it seems we have to stain it again.We live in southern Ontario and once winter is over the deck looks like it had never been done
We have been putting Thompson honey gold stain on it every summer.
What would you recommend this year.that would last longer.
You will have to fully remove the Thompsons first. Once done, use the Armstrong Clark Stains or TWP 200 Series.
Can semi transparent stain be used on a worn deck?
As long as you prep correctly and remove all previous coatings, etc.
Photos
Hi our deck is around 15 years old however we added an extension 3 years ago and the deck was painted. This year we decided to sand it down and instead stain the deck, however we found some rotten planks which we replaced. We stained the rails semi solid chestnut color, originally wanting to have the floor lighter but we can’t decide on a color because my house siding is white. Could u recommend a good stain color type and brand. I appreciate the help thank you very much for your time.
Look at Armstrong Clark: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/tag/armstrong-clark-deck-stains/
I live in Iowa, partial sun (trees), rain, leaves, and snow, winter cold (-10) to summer (90), deck 20 yrs old, used TWP every 3 yrs (just soap & water with scrub brush), was getting to where new application wasn’t looking good, boards are in good shape (not splintered etc), last yr Menards was having a sale with a Cabot company paint expert to answer questions,he sold me on Cabot Australian Timber with a bleach cleaner. I did that and the deck looks terrible, about 80% of the stain took and the other 20% looks terrible.
What do you suggest, I am 78 yrs old and getting tired of doing it.
thanks
I may have given you the wrong e-mail to my above question
Strip and brighten all wood for prep: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/restore-a-deck-injectable-deck-stain-stripper-review/
Restain with the TWP or try Restore A Deck Stains.
Armstrong Clark is offered in 3 different versions: Trans parents, Semi-Transparent, and Semi-Solid Colors. How do I chose which version. I stained my deck about two years ago.
That’s a matter of your color preference but most use the semi-transparent or semi-solid.
What is considered a “old deck”? We built our deck 2 years ago (third summer with it). We just assumed it shouldnt be stained or sealed because it was pressure treated lumber. Our deck is causing splinters for our kids and definately needs a huge breathe of fresh air. What do we do???
Clean and brighten for prep and use one of these stain brands: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
Help please. I used Thompson timber oil teak. I wanted Armstrong-Clark but as we live in Ontario canada I didn’t want to order as only available in the US and was concerned it would be stuck in customs for weeks due to covid 19. I stained half the deck in Sunday. It looked great, rich in colour. Monday it rained and yesterday heavy storm. Now it looks patchy, horrible and I hate the colour. What do you think of this product, will it be hard to strip, should I sand the patchy bits and restain.
Post a picture.
Photos as requested
You should remove all and start over. Strip off what you can and then sand if needed to remove all. Make sure to brighten all wood when done.
We just received an very old cedar kids playhouse and want to fix it up. We sanded it and would like to use something to stain it and protect it from the elements. Any suggestions?
Try Armstrong Clark Stain.
How to restore tops of old deck joists that have nail and screw holes from at least 3 deck floor replacements? Is there a finish to paint on tops of joists to help preserve?
Not that we know of.
We tried getting all paint off deck there is still some. Can we use a darker stain over this deck? If so what kind? And If I just decide to paint railings do I just use any exterior paint?
Use a solid stain: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/what-are-the-best-solid-color-deck-stains/
Solid stain on railings too? So there’s no way to use a regular darker stain. Solid stain looks like paint right? I kinda wanted a wood look on the deck that’s why we tried getting all the previous off.
You cannot use a semi-transparent stain unless you can fully sand off the current paint from the deck floor.
Do I use solid stain on railings too
Yes.
So the few speckles of paint will mess up regular staining? We’ve used stripper and tried to sand is there anything else we can try to get the few spots off?
Regular stain will not work over a paint. It will look bad and not adhere.
What is not only the best stain for an older deck, but also the fastest drying stain.
Thanks for your help.
KSW
Use the Restore A Deck Wood Stain: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/restore-a-deck-wood-stain-review/
my deck is not old [5/6 yrs] but i painted it with the wrong stuff and it peeled and blew in the wind….. i power wash it and did some sanding now i need to do something to get it too look better… there is some residual paint that won’t budge what should i do ????????
Replay with some pictures.
Water based vs oil based stain for an old deck
Try Armstrong Clark oil-based stain.
We have a four-year old redwood deck that has weathered natural gray ( which we like) but we are concerned the the wood is drying out. What is the best product to nourish the wood while keeping the weathered look and color?
You would need a clear coating. Try TWP 1500 Clear.
Our deck is about 24 years old. We refinished it in 2012 but can’t remember (and kept no record!) of the product used. Based on pics taken during that application I’d guess it was a semi-solid, and the color is fairly dark.
My husband just power washed the entire deck and railings, with better success on the deck floor than the verticals in removing the previous finish. I’d prefer to go with a lighter / medium color this time, and am ok with some of the darker previous stain showing thru.
I rather impulsively bought TWP 100 Cedartone after reading lots of great reviews and comments here. Was that a mistake?
The power wash, done with water only, also raised the grain a fair amount.
How would you suggest we proceed: 1) since we don’t know what the previous product was; 2) in terms of the color change; and 3) given the roughed up grain?
Thank you!
Post some pictures.
After pressure washing, there is still a lot of old stain left on railings. Does this need to be stripped off before using your products? Do I have to mask around deck to protect siding, doors, etc. or is it washable?
Yes, it should be stripped or sanded to be removed before using a different brand. No need to mask, just pre-wet and rinse any overspray right away.
What is the best stain for a 20 yr old deck
Try Armstrong Clark in a semi-solid color.
Hi here is a 22 year old treated wood deck. The deck was stained after one year with a redwood stain. Obviously that is completely gone. There was a Thompson light stain application ~5 years ago soaked right in, a few dark spots. Other than these couple of stained applications I’ve maintained the deck by cleaning every year with diy cleaner. Now I would like to properly stain. What type of sanding equipment/grit and cleaning/staining methods and products would be recommended? Need start to finish advice. Thank you!
Strip and brighten for prep, no need to sand. Try one of these brands of stains:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
We recently moved in to a house with an old deck (assume 20+ years?). The deck looked unfinished and had many splits and a few damaged planks. I sealed the larger splits with polyurethane and replaced the damaged planks. A year later, I stained it with a solid-color stain using a sprayer. Looked great. A year after that, most of the stain starting flaking off. I wanted to start over so I quickly (one-pass) power washed off the remaining stain, though some bits did not easily come off. (Please see attached pictures, to see the deck in this current state).
My question now is: can I re-apply solid-stain without removing the little bits currently on the wood? Also, I have not cleaned the deck with any chemicals (I imagine I’ll have to fully remove all stain before I attempt to clean?) I plan on applying the stain with a brush/roller instead of a sprayer this year- hopefully that will achieve better results?
Thanks.
You still have loose and peeling solid stain on the wood. Sand that off and then you are good to use a solid stain again. https://www.deckstainhelp.com/what-are-the-best-solid-color-deck-stains/
I have a 30 year old deck in fair condition. I have used Thompson clear deck sealer in the past, most recently last season. I want to apply a color to hide the imperfections of aging, but do not want to use paint. After power washing deck, can I use an oil stain ? What would you recommend? Is sanding necessary? Thank you
Use a deck stripper while pressure washing to remove the Thompsons. Brightener after. Stain with TWP stains or Armstrong Clark.
After wood cleaner & brightener, is there a good CLEAR stain I can use? This is for exterior redwood shelf that I have sanded…but it still shows gray lines in it. Thanks!
Clear will not offer UV protection from graying. Must be tinted.
OK…pics below of how redwood counter looked after built & sealed May 2018, last week looked gray, then I sanded, but still have light gray stripes. Good and smooth…do I have to use BOTH the Defy Wood Cleaner and Brightener..or, can I just use the Cleaner? Then which brand of sealer or stain should I use?
Thanks sooo much!
Use the Cleaner and the Brightener for prep. Use the Defy Extreme Stain after.
Hi all
I have a pressure treated deck railing that was installed two years ago. About 5 months after that is was partially stained using a white solid stain. I have the stain that was used originally and want to finish it, but am wondering if i can just finish staining. I was just going powerwash. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
Use a deck cleaner while pressure washing. Brightener after to neutralize.
Thanks. Any brand you recommend?
See this: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/restore-a-deck-cleaner-system-review/
When can you not stain and seal old deck, temperature wise?
Not below 50.
An old deck that has some old gray stain .I need to preserve the wood. What can I use to cover .??.
Depend on the type of stain that is on there and if can be covered or if it will need to be removed first. Best to post a picture.
I have had my deck steps repaired so now I have old and new pine. What can I stain with and do I need to wait before staining?
See this about new wood: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/staining-a-new-deck/
As for that to use, that would depend on what type of stain is currently on the wood if any stain? Best to post a picture.
Sorry about posting incorrectly below.
This is where I need help. I have an old weathered deck in good condition. I have power washed it. It appears it has not been stained previously. It is treated wood about 12 yers old. I want to apply a solid stain. The paints store has recommended I apply Fresh Start, a sealer prior to applying the stain.
Anybody have an opinion on this approach? What about using a brightener too?
Thanks for any thoughts on this project.
You cannot seal before a stain. The stain will not be able to soak in. A brightener would have no effect. Try Flood Pro Series Solid Stains.
Anyone us Fresh Start sealer on their deck?
Never heard of it.
I just bought a cabin in Crestline, CA with an apparently 30 year old deck. The owner who owned it 5 years ago (he lives down the street) said he used to use Superdeck 1906 oil based stain, but after reading the reviews I’m going to go with something else. There’s extreme weather as it’s on a really windy ridge that gets snow, rain, and sun. Any recommendations? It’s redwood and brown in color but pretty faded. It seems the owner of the last 4 years didn’t do anything with it. I’m leaning towards the TWP 500 or 1500, but I’m wondering if a semi-solid Armstrong clark would be better to cover up the battered quality of the wood. Any input appreciated!
Strip and brighten the wood for the prep to remove the Super Deck. The TWP 1500 would work very well but som would the AC. Go with your preference. A semi-solid would give better coverage for the old wood.
Hi, I hired a laborer to work on my deck. He’s replaced about 15 boards with new pretreated boards. We’d like to stain the entire deck with a transparent stain. However when we started the color on the new boards was very light, and the color on the older boards was very dark, so my deck is looking like a stripped zebra. I made some inquiries and getting a lot of conflicting information. I’ve been told I should wait 6 months before staining to allow the new boards to cure which will give it a more uniform look. I’ve also been told that I’ll never get an uniform color across old and new boards and should use a solid stain (which I don’t care for). Your advise please.
You will need to let the new boards weather for 3-12 months and then prep. Even then, the new boards will still be a shade lighter than the older boards since they are less absorbent.
To obtain the best uniform look, should I try a semi-transparent stain?
Semi-solid by Armstrong Clark.
Big mistake.should either replace all the boards on your deck or go find old weathered deck boards if he was a painter he should have known this you will never get it all looking the same
I have a two level old wood deck that I want to stain. It was previously painted. I am sanding the deck down to bare wood as much as possible. I would like to stain it with semi-transparent stain. I like the reviews of both the TWP 1500 series, and Armstrong Clark. The Armstrong Clark has two types of oils, one that penetrates and one that drys. Would this cause the flooring of the deck to become more slippery when wet from rain? Also, should I use a semi-solid stain? I am under the belief that semi-solid does not hold up as well as semi-transparent.
Thank you for your help with my project.
No, the AC is not slippery when wet. Use a semi-transparent or a semi-solid. Both hold up well in the AC as they are penetrating stains.
Have a deck that was put down in 1979, have sanded it completely and put down Sikkens stain which has pealed. Want to know what the best deck over product is out there.
remove the Sikkens fully and then try one of these stains: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
Hello , what brand of the semi-transparent stain would you recommend for 15 years old pressure treated deck? The deck is in ok condition. Striped, cleaned, power washed and brightened but the wood is very dry and by the pool. I live in zone 5 where winters are brutal and summers hot. The deck gets full day of direct sun and is exposed to rain and snow as well. In previous years I have used Sherwin -Williams due to their yearly sales. Is it anything better/new on the market that you recommend? Thank you.
Try the TWP stains or Restore A Deck Wood Stains.
I have 3 buckets of olympic deck paint never opened. Its 3-4 years old. Is it good?
Depends on how it was stored and if it frooze or not. Open one and mix thoroughly. If not skinning or clumping, it should be okay.
Hi! Thank you so much for taking my question. We moved into our house about 4 years ago that had an existing deck built in 2006. They had a solid cedar stain that they might have just slapped on over something else before they sold the house and it started flaking off soon after. I stripped and sanded as much as I could with some tough spots still visible, plus the railings undone. We really didn’t like the solid color that had almost a pinkish hue and would love something darker, but aren’t sure what could look good other than another solid stain which may not be ideal for walking on. Please let me know your advice when you have a minute and thanks again!
You will need to use another solid stain unless you sand the rest off. Try the Flood Pro Series Solid stains.
Thank you for the advice! We used the flood solid stain and it looks great. However, after the first coat we had rain the next day and couldn’t get the second coat on. Flood recommends a second coat but is it too late now (5 days later)?
You should be okay to do another coat.
we have an old cedar deck that needs re staining… what do you recommend????????? thx alice
Try Armstrong Clark in a semi-solid color. Make sure to prep correctly first.
What is the best deck stain for cedar deck that previously had Cabot semi stain. Deck has lots of morning sun and afternoon shade from tree in middle of deck. My deck guy wants to use Sherwin Williams Super Deck semi.
I had all the boards replace and stained with Cabot 4 years ago. Please advise for northernDetroit Suburb.
TWP 100 Series.
We stripped deck but some areas still have some color on them that wont come off especially the posts. What kind of stain should we use to cover it all?
Pictures please.
Will the staining be uniform if a few new deck planks are used?
No. New boards will be slightly lighter in color compared to older wood when using a semi-transparent stain. if you use a semi-solid color, it will blend a little better.
My current cedar deck which is about 20 years old has a semi transparent oil based stain on it that was done by a local company. I’m going to do the deck myself this year. I will still stay with the semi transparent stain. Do I need to strip the deck or just use a deck cleaner and then brightener?
Strip and brighten. Should be easy to prep if oil based.
Old boards with old stain still does not look good with the replacement boards. Done that before and ugly. Hired painter wants to use opaque hybrid stain. Do you know anything about that ?
What brand is it?
My deck needs to be stained every year and the stain won’t stay on can you recommend something to cover the deck and stay on
You may need to remove the current coatings and start over. Please post a picture or two.
we have a large cedar deck that is about 5 years old and in good conditon but the stain peels off in some spots every year. We are getting tired of maintaining it by sanding and staining yearly. How can we maintain it wihtout so much work. My husband wants to cover it up but its thousands of dollars wasted if we do that, Please any suggestions would be helpful.
We need more info. What type and brand of stain is on the wood now? Post a picture. Thanks
We have a pressure treated deck that has been covered with a solid stain. I have pressure washed the deck and rails. I plan to sand the rails, for better adhesion. We are looking for a recommendation on a brand name product that will not have a flaking problem.
Our selection might be a solid or a semi-solid stain.
You will have to use a solid stain again unless you remove the old stain 100%. Try the Flood Solid Stains.
Also why is the treated decking rotting? Is it the chlorine? We have tried a couple different stains and they just peel off. We have replaced 3 boards and think we should sand it all and then restain but don’t know what is the best thing to use.
No deck stain will be immune to chlorine bleach. The bleach will degrade the stain and wood over time. As for the rotting, that happens over time.
Our old deck is our pool deck so it gets wet a lot and with chlorine. What is the best kind of stain or pain to use?
I have a 20 year old pressure treated wood deck. I have kept it stained every 3 or 4 years. The last time I stained the stain is peeling off. The paint store tells me my wood is old and will not hold a stain and I should replace it. There are a few cracks but no rotting wood. What do you suggest.
Post a pictue please.
Is it ok to apply Armstrong-Clark semi-transparent stain on an old wood deck if it’s previously cleaned?
As long as the wood is clean and any old coatings have been removed.
Thank you!
how can i make my deck more slip resistant. its and old deck and we want to stain it again , it sometimes gets too slippery in winter and rainy days.any ideas?
Try Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive.
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/gulf-synthetics-deck-revive-review-2015/
I would like to get this to a very dark grey/slate color. Please help me with all that I need to do!
Hello, there is not a semi-transparent stain that we know of that offers a dark gray/slate color. You will need to use a solid color deck stain if you want this. Pressure wash and use a deck stain stripper for the prep.
Can I use mahogany stain on this 10 years old deck? what type of stain should I use.
Victor, you can only use a solid color stain on this wood since that is what your previous coating is.
What sanding grid should I use with 10 years old deck?
Start with 60 grit and finish with 80 grit.
Must he remove the existing stain, if he plans on using a solid-color stain as his final product? Thanks.
Not all of it. You should strip off what is loose though.
We have a lot of pressure treated decking that’s never been treated. I tried Ben Moore restore to try and bring it back but no chance it’s that weathered. Now I need to make it look good. Solid stain won’t wirk, too much water (by lake) and sun. Would semi transparent stain be best option and what color would look good over old grey pt? What brand would give best coverage to hide what’s under. Thx so much
You can remove the gray. Use the Restore A Deck Cleaner and Brightener kit and pressure washing. Once removed, try the Armstrong Clark or TWP Stains.
I have an old deck that paint chip off for more than 7 years. What type of stain should I get, how many grid sandpaper
Post a picture please of the current conditon so we know how to prep and what type of stain to use.
I powerwashed my old deck that was previously steined. The majority of the previous stein has been removed but the spindles and parts of the upright railing stein didn’t come off. Can I put a new coat of stein over the old stein? Also the deck was steined a red color can I use a darker color over the spots that still have red stein? I hate to replace all the spindles but would be easier then sanding them all down.
What type of stain is on the wood? Please post a picture.
Not sure what stein. It was a solid red
You will need a solid stain again to cover this old stain.
I have just power washed our very old deck. The deck was stained, but now after cleaning, half the stain is gone and half is still there in patches. Will have to sand all of the deck or can I stain over top of old stain?
Strip or sand so all is removed.
Hello. I recently purchased a foreclosure home with a deck. I can’t tell if the deck was ever treated. I understand all the preparations, cleaning. My question, does any stain product fill in the cracks and cover the splintering wood?
Deck stains will not fill in cracks. A resurface type coating will:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/gulf-synthetics-deck-revive-review-2015/
Hi I live in Newfoundland Canada 🇨🇦 and we have all kinds of weather here and it can be harsh. We have full sun on the deck all day (when we have it lol) We bought a home and it’s pressure treated deck is 4 years old and nothing has been done with it in terms of stain. From what I have read would this be appropriate steps: (1) wood cleaner – oxygenated (2) wood brightener (3) semi-solid or solid stain (thinking it’s thicker and may last longer) and I’d use Armstrong clarke, or defy extreme (whatever is available in the area). Does this sound like a good plan??
Either should work for you but the semi-solid by AC will give longer UV protection.
We recently bought a house that has a deck made of pine, probably around 5 -7 years old. It is bare wood. We have cleaned and pressure washed it. We live in Cincinnati, Ohio. The deck gets full sun approx 8 hours/day. I want a grey color and Armstrong Clark did not have a good choice for that. Could I use the TWP 100 Cape Cod Grey?
TWP 100 is not allowed in Ohio. Defy Extreme Driftwood gray?
We have an older deck at a house we just bought. It is at the shore and though the 1×6 pressure treated decking is solid, it s splintering in places and there are cracks in many of the boards up to 3/16″. The wood is bone dry and there has clearly been nothing applied for years. I started to sand out the slivers, and trim with a utility knife where appropriate.
The deck is also surrounded with beautiful flowers and herbs that I have been told are not to be messed with. 😉
What approach to cleaning (including brands), prep, and what product would you recommend to properly protect the wood. I would VASTLY prefer to NOT re-deck!!!
Prep with Restore A Deck cleaning and brightening kits. For the stain, consider the Armstrong Clark as it contains conditioning oils that will help the dried out wood. The semi-solid colors would give it even more UV protection.
Is there a sealing product that can be applied to dimensional cedar end cuts in addition to the stain before or after the stain that will further mitigate end cut rot and splitting? Urgently await your reply.
No. You cannot seal before a stain is applied.
Can you recommend an end cut sealer. Or filler. That can be stained or that can go over over your stain?
Sorry we do not use end sealers and wood fillers do not “stain” to blend with a semi-transparent coating.
Ingot a 4 gal .bucket of deck stain about 2 gals left been sitting few years how do i got the skim off top got lumps in it how can I restore it to use
It has gone bad. Cannot fix it and do not use it.
I have a deck that was stained with a sprayer and looks terrible. Can I stain over this and will it cover spotty areas?
Depends on the brand of stain and how it cures. Do you know the brand?
I have a pressure treated (brown, not green) fence that is 8 years old. I applied an oil based stain/sealer to it 4 years ago. Is there anything I can apply to it without having to remove any of the old stain? The fence looks fine. there is no peeling or flaking etc. I’ve read that I should apply a water based stain if it previously had an oil base? Is this correct. If so what would you suggest?
You should strip when reapplying a different brand. That way the new coating will properly soak in. it should be an easy strip.
I have a 14 yr old cedar deck in good condition, stained the first time with Cabot’s oil. Stains have changed so much. Looking for a stain that was as good as what they made 14 yrs ago.
Armstrong Clark or TWP 1500 is what you would want.
We moved to a new home 3 yrs ago. The pool deck was not done recently before came. I recently just got around to it,I power washed it, going to replace some boards,reset nail head, than use a drum sander on it. It once was a semi transparent ceader stain I think. I would like to go back to that color. Location is northern NJ What’s the best option?
One of these brands: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
I have a 28 year old deck that had a solid paint which has worn away. The deck hasn’t been treated in seven years. We are going to power wash and do repairs. Do you recommend sanding then before painting again to remove all of the paint from wood. Please recommend a solid stain that will be worth putting on. I’ve read awful reviews about Cabot and a couple others I was considering using. Thank you!
Try Flood solid stains. Prep by removing the dirt and any loose paint.
Flood is available in Canada without shipping and duties… I am feeling really worried about choosing a stain for my big 2002 deck that is being cleaned and stained for the first time. It is so much work! I really want to not do this again for about 5 years. Should I consider ordering from the US or buy Flood, which is carried at Home Hardware (my favourite hardware store in Canada). I used Rez semi-transparent on our tenant’s deck next door which was in similar condition last July and it shows flaking already, so I am guessing the finish will not last long.
I have power washed my painted deck and it removed more than 90% of the old paint. I want to stain it next. Will the stain cover the paint that didn’t come off? If so, what type of stain should I look for?
The only thing that will cover it is a solid color stain. Since you are 90% there, why not remove the rest so you can use a semi-transparent? Less chance of peeling with a penetrating semi-trans.
Thank you very much.
I have a 15 year old deck that I cleaned a few years ago and got back to looking like the original wood. It was a beautiful yellowish color. I think it’s cedar. I didn’t stain it at that time and have let it get dirty again. There is a little stain left around the edges and a few other areas from years ago and some soft spots in the wood. I don’t want a solid color. If I can get it cleaned up is it too late to restain? I’d like it to be as close as possible to the natural color of the wood. I live in minneapolis and the deck gets lots of sun…as well as snow. What do I need to do once I get it clean? Should i do some pre treatment? And what type and color of stain would you suggest? Thank you.
It is not too late. Reclean and prep. Light colored stains will not last as long as darker colors. Look at Honeytone 115 by TWP or Armstrong Clark in Natural.
Oh, he says he can wash it day one and then stain it day 2. Is that a good plan??
Not with most deck stains. 48 hour after the prep is normal.
I have a 24-year-old, PTP, three-level deck in northern Indiana which faces afternoon sun. I had a contractor power wash it and stain it summer of 2014. He PRAISED Cabot’s solid stain (seems more like paint to me). He said on an old deck, this would be best. Well by April following year, all the horizontal boards looked as though they had no treatment at all. I contacted Cabot and they said, “We do not recommend using siding stain on your deck floor . Cabot 0837 Solid Cordovan brown Siding stain was used. After three years of bugging him, he will now re-do it for us. He says he will power wash and needs 4 gallons of stain. (He used 11 gallons the first time??) Can you recommend what stain to use once he power washes it off…if he can? Thanks so much!
Try Flood solid stains. He will not be able to get it all off with pressure washing, so you will need another solid stain to cover.
I have a deck that is made with pressure treated wood from 1982, it’s in great condition and has no rotting or splintering, and is all the original boards. It has consistently been sealed every 2 to 3 years since being built. What sealer would you recommend? I prefer a transparent to translucent sealer.
Try the Armstrong Clark stains.
Where to buy Armstrong Clark stains?
Contact manufacturer for help.
Hi I live in Toronto, Canada, I read that you recommend TWP. What does that stand for?
Total Wood Preservative but is sold under “TWP”. It is not sold in Canada.
I have used Sherwin-Williams oil stain and cannot get it to dry–it always feels sticky. Am I doing something wrong
Most likely over applying and/or not prepping correctly. The stain should cure and harden if the prep and application is done correctly.
The information was knowledgeable and useful.
Deck is greying and is in bad shape after not being resealed for a few seasons. It is an east facing deck with no shade. We are new home owners and extremely hesitant to go the full solid route – since we fear both the painted look as well as the peeling pain. Can we power-wash, and go the semitransparent route in dark walnut or dark oak? (darker to hide imperfections) Will a couple of coats and then maintenance every 2 years suffice? Thanks in advance.
Go with a penetrating semi-solid color by Armstrong Clark. Look at their Oxford Brown. It can be maintained every few years.
High altitude,freeze,thaw,lots of rain,morning sun.
Try the TWP stains.
Obviously the "non-drying" oils can't stay wet forever. How long is it before they dry enough to use the deck?
Yes non drying oils do not dry. They will soak deep into the wood grain though so it is not an issue with use.
Very helpful information, there are so many products it is hard to decide which is right for my porch. I have 2 Large decks and are showing their years. With the right information I hope to keep them well for many years.
We have a 12×12 pressure treated pine deck that we built in 1987. Since it is on the north side of the house and we have had an awning over it during the summer it is in good shape. We are thinking of just taking up the floor, leave the frame, and replace the floor with new PTL. Is there a point where you should not repair a 30 year old deck? Do you have to replace a deck when it is this old? The posts and frame look fine.
We let our new deck set for one full summer. Then we applied deck stain. Looked outstanding.. Then when spring came there was several spots that was peeling. When walking across with bare feet the peeling stain would come off on feet. What should we do now?
Remove and start over. What brand and type of stain did you use last year?