Deck Stain to Prevent Mildew? 5/5 (1)

Best deck stain to prevent mildew?

The best type of deck stain to prevent mildew is a water-based deck stain. The best water-based deck stain to prevent mildew is Restore-A-Deck. Some oil-based deck stains have added mildewcide, but not all. Check the label of the brand and color you want to make sure it is appropriate for a wetter climate. The best oil-based deck stains with mildewcide are TWP and Armstrong Clark semi-transparent penetrating deck stains. A deck with existing mildew must be thoroughly cleaned before applying new deck stain in a moist environment.

Key takeaways

Water-based deck stains are the best option for preventing mildew, with Restore-A-Deck being the top recommended product.
Not all oil-based deck stains contain mildewcide, so always check the label before buying, especially in wetter climates.
The best oil-based options with mildewcide are TWP and Armstrong Clark semi-transparent penetrating deck stains.
Always thoroughly clean existing mildew from your deck before applying any new stain in a moist environment.
RAD Guard Mildew and Algae Cleaner and Preventer removes black mildew and green algae stains and keeps them away for 1 to 2 years.
Homeowners in wet climates should pay close attention to product labels to confirm mildew resistance before purchasing any deck stain.

How to Prevent Mildew on Deck Stains

Pro Tip: The RAD Guard will remove the black mildew and green algae stains from your wood and deck stains and will prevent them from returning for 1-2 years: RAD Guard Mildew and Algae Cleaner and Preventer

More information on coping with mildew on decks in a wet climate

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Scott Paul ~ Restoring Wood & Decks Since 1993 Owner

Scott Paul is the founder and owner of DeckStainHelp.com. He has worked in exterior wood and deck restoration since 1993, when he started Oakland Pressure Wash in Metro Detroit, and has restored more than 10,000 decks over three decades in the field. Everything reviewed here is tested the way a contractor tests it: applied to real wood, in real weather, and watched over multiple seasons. No manufacturer pays for a review, a rating, or a placement on this site. Read Scott's full bio and the list of sites he operates.

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