Types of Deck Stains in 2026: Explained 4.8/5 (808)

This post was updated on April 7, 2026

Hi, I’m Scott Paul, a seasoned exterior restoration contractor and business owner with over 30 years of expertise in exterior wood care. This article is one of my favorites because it breaks down all the different deck stains available, giving you the insights you need to make an informed choice. If you’re researching wood and decking stains, this is a must-read. Learn more about me here.

What Type of Stain Should You Use on Your Deck?

Choosing the right deck stain comes down to selecting a high-quality product that suits your deck’s condition and meets your specific needs. One of the most important factors to consider is the stain’s transparency or opacity, which ranges from clear, transparent, semi-transparent, semi-solid, to solid finishes.

✅ What Are the Different Types of Deck Stains? (Quick Answer)

Deck stains are categorized by how much pigment they contain and how they interact with the wood. The four main types are:

      • Clear Sealers – No pigment = no UV protection from graying
      • Transparent stains – Minimal color, show full wood grain, lowest protection
      • Semi-transparent stains – Add light color while allowing grain to show, best balance of protection and appearance
      • Semi-solid stains – More pigment, better UV protection, partially hide wood grain
      • Solid color stains – Fully opaque, maximum coverage but highest maintenance
      • Oil-Based stains – Deeper penetration than water-based stains
      • Water-based stains – Eco-Friendly and water cleanup
      • Penetrating stains – Easier to maintain and prep
      • Filming stains – Prone to peeling

Oil-based stains typically outperform water-based options in terms of penetration and durability, though they often come at a higher cost and with fewer color options. However, water-based stains may be more eco-friendly and easier to clean up.

When selecting a stain, consider your local climate. If your deck is exposed to a lot of direct sunlight, opt for a product with strong UV protection. For damp or humid regions, choose a stain with mildew-resistant properties. Also, check your state’s environmental regulations to ensure the product complies with VOC restrictions.

By choosing the right stain for your deck, you’ll not only enhance its appearance but also ensure it stays protected for years to come.

✅ How to Choose the Right Deck Stain Type

Choosing the correct deck stain type depends on your specific situation:

  • New Wood:
    Transparent or semi-transparent stains allow the natural beauty of the wood to show.
  • Older Wood:
    Semi-solid or solid stains help hide imperfections.
  • High UV Exposure:
    Semi-solid or solid stains provide better sun protection.
  • Low Maintenance Preference:
    Semi-transparent penetrating stains are the easiest to maintain over time.

Understanding the Different Types of Deck Stains

Over the past 30+ years, I’ve worked with countless deck stain brands and types. Having tried them all, I’ve seen some excellent options—and others that didn’t hold up to their promises. While the landscape of deck stains has evolved due to changing manufacturers and stricter VOC laws, there are still top-quality options available in 2026. The key is knowing where to look.

Deck stains have come a long way since the early 1990s. Many manufacturers have shifted from oil-based to water-based formulas, but oil-based stains are still permitted for use across all U.S. states and Canada. With my team restoring 300-400 decks annually, my personal go-to options remain penetrating semi-transparent and semi-solid stains for their durability and natural finish.

In this guide, I’ll break down the various types of deck stains, compare their pros and cons, and help you make an informed decision on the best option for your deck.

See My List of the Top 8 Best Deck Stains


Deck Stain Type Comparison Chart

-See below for full in-depth differences and descriptions for each.

Stain Type Appearance Durability Ease of Application Maintenance Best For
Clear / Wood Toner Natural wood grain visible, slight tone ★☆☆☆☆ (1 year) ★★★★☆ Easy recoating Newer wood, cedar, or if you want a natural look
Semi-Transparent Enhances wood grain with color ★★★★☆ (2–3 years) ★★★★☆ Moderate – light cleaning Most deck types needing color & UV protection
Semi-Solid Less grain visibility, more pigment ★★★★☆ (2–4 years) ★★★☆☆ May require stripping, but varies based on brand Older decks or those needing more color
Solid (Opaque) Paint-like look, hides grain ★★★☆☆ (1–3 years) ★★☆☆☆ Difficult – sanding/stripping Very old wood or previously painted/stained decks

Notes:

  • UV protection improves as opacity increases.
  • Durability may vary depending on prep, wood condition, and climate.
  • Darker or richer colors provide better UV protection with semi-transparent and semi-solid colors.
  • Penetrating stains are easier to maintain as they have less chance of peeling and flaking.

Penetrating vs Film-Forming Deck Stains

  • Penetrating stains (transparent & semi-transparent):
    • Soak into wood
    • Do not peel
    • Easier maintenance
  • Film-forming stains (solid):
    • Sit on surface
    • Can peel over time
    • Require more prep

👉 This is a high-volume keyword gap most sites miss

Explaining the Types of Deck Stains Video 

Watch my video on all the different deck stains sold today. This is one of my more informative videos, and it will help you narrow down what is best for you and your deck.

YouTube player

Water-Based Wood Deck Stains

Water-Based Wood Deck Stains

Water-Based Wood Deck Stains

Water-based deck stains have risen rapidly in the last 8-10 years. The main reason for the vast number of water-based stains on the market today is related to changes in VOC laws across the country. Many states have adopted or will adopt lower VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) regulations, which has prompted stain manufacturers to increase the production of water-soluble decking stains. Water-based deck stains are “thin” paints with varying amounts of acrylic and pigment. Most water-based deck stain brands have a high failure rate, but a few great options exist.

✅ Water-Based Deck Stains (Acrylic Coatings)

  • Appearance: Natural to slightly enhanced color (varies by opacity)
  • Wood Grain: Visible in transparent and semi-transparent versions
  • Protection Level: Good UV resistance and water repellency
  • Best For: Newer wood, maintenance coats, and areas with strict VOC regulations
  • Maintenance: Moderate—easier than solid stains but not as forgiving as oil-based

Water-based deck stains use acrylic resins to bond to the wood surface while still allowing some penetration. They are known for faster drying times, easier cleanup, and better color retention compared to traditional oil-based coatings.

They are available in transparent, semi-transparent, semi-solid, and solid colors, making them versatile for many applications.


👉 When to Use a Water-Based Deck Stain

  • You want faster drying times and easier application
  • You are working in an area with VOC restrictions
  • The deck is newer or in good condition
  • You want better UV color retention over time

⚠️ Downsides of Water-Based Stains

  • Do not always penetrate as deeply as oil-based stains. *Restore-A-Deck Wood Stains and Defy Wood Stains are the only exceptions I have used successfully. They penetrate the best of all water-based stains, nearly as well as an oil.
  • Can be less forgiving during application (lap marks possible)
  • May require more prep for proper adhesion
  • Slightly harder to recoat than penetrating oil stains

🔍 Water-Based vs Oil-Based Deck Stains

  • Water-Based Stains:
    • Faster drying and easier cleanup
    • Better UV color retention
    • Lower VOC content
  • Oil-Based Stains:
    • Deeper penetration into wood
    • Easier long-term maintenance
    • More natural aging and wear

🧠 Expert Tip

Expert Tip: Water-based stains perform best on properly prepped wood. If the surface is not cleaned and brightened correctly, adhesion issues can occur.

My Pros: Water cleanup, less chance of mold or mildew growth. Environmentally friendly.

My Cons: They do not penetrate as well as an oil-based product can. They are slightly more complicated to apply as they dry quickly. They can be prone to peeling and wearing. *Restore-A-Deck Wood Stains and Defy Wood Stains are the only exceptions I have used successfully. They penetrate the best of all water-based stains, nearly as well as an oil.

Oil-based Wood Deck Stains

Oil Based DeckStain

Oil Based DeckStain

Oil-based decking stains have been around for 30-40 years and have traditionally been what all stain manufacturers produce. Oil-based stains are typically made up of natural and synthetic oils. Many contain oils, such as Linseed Oil, Paraffin Oil, Tung Oil, Rosewood Oil, Etc.

✅ Oil-Based Deck Coatings (Penetrating Oil Stains)

  • Appearance: Natural-looking finish that enhances wood grain
  • Wood Grain: Visible (varies by transparency level)
  • Protection Level: Excellent water resistance, moderate UV protection (with pigment)
  • Best For: Most exterior wood decks, especially older or weathered wood
  • Maintenance: Easy—can be cleaned and recoated without heavy stripping

Oil-based deck coatings are designed to penetrate deep into the wood fibers, helping to protect from moisture while enhancing the natural look of the wood. Unlike film-forming coatings, they do not sit on the surface, which means they are far less likely to peel or crack over time.

They are commonly available in transparent, semi-transparent, and semi-solid versions, depending on how much pigment is added.


👉 When to Use an Oil-Based Deck Coating

  • You want a natural wood appearance with enhanced grain
  • The deck is older or has been previously stained
  • You prefer easy maintenance and recoating
  • You want a coating that is less likely to peel

⚠️ Downsides of Oil-Based Coatings

  • Slower drying times compared to water-based products
  • Can attract mildew in humid or shaded areas
  • VOC restrictions in some states may limit availability
  • Requires proper application to avoid over-penetration or darkening

🔍 Oil-Based vs Water-Based Deck Coatings

  • Oil-Based Coatings:
    • Deeper penetration into wood
    • Easier to maintain and reapply
    • Rich, natural finish
  • Water-Based Coatings:
    • Faster drying
    • Better UV resistance retention
    • Lower VOC and easier cleanup

🧠 Expert Tip

Expert Tip: Oil-based penetrating stains are typically the easiest coatings to maintain long-term since they wear naturally instead of peeling like film-forming products.

My Pros: Excellent penetration into the wood. The better a deck stain can penetrate, the better its performance. It is also easier to apply and more natural-looking.

My Cons: Stronger odors, longer drying, and curing time. Some oils can promote the growth of mildew. Some oil-based stains will darken in color over time.

Deck Resurface Coatings

✅ Deck Resurfacing Coatings (Restoration Coatings)

  • Appearance: Thick, opaque coating that fills cracks and hides wood grain
  • Wood Grain: Not visible
  • Protection Level: High surface protection, seals and bridges damaged areas
  • Best For: Severely weathered, splintered, or structurally sound but worn decks
  • Maintenance: Moderate to high—can peel or wear unevenly over time

Deck resurfacing coatings are designed to restore old or damaged wood by creating a thick protective layer over the surface. Unlike traditional stains that penetrate into the wood, these coatings sit on top and are formulated to fill cracks, lock down splinters, and provide a uniform appearance.

They are often much thicker than solid stains and are sometimes marketed as “deck restore” or “deck resurfacer” products.


👉 When to Use a Deck Resurfacing Coating

  • The deck is heavily weathered, splintering, or rough
  • Previous coatings have failed and the surface is uneven
  • You want to extend the life of the deck without replacing boards
  • The wood is still structurally sound but cosmetically worn

⚠️ Downsides of Resurfacing Coatings

  • Can peel or crack over time, especially in high-traffic areas
  • Difficult to remove once applied
  • Requires extensive prep before application
  • Not suitable for newer or healthy wood

🔍 Resurfacing Coatings vs Solid Deck Stains

  • Resurfacing Coatings:
    Thicker, designed to fill cracks and restore damaged wood
  • Solid Stains:
    Thinner, provide color and protection but do not repair surface damage

🧠 Expert Tip

Expert Tip: Deck resurfacers can be a short-term solution for heavily worn decks, but they often require more maintenance and prep than penetrating stains. If the wood is still in decent shape, a penetrating stain is usually the better long-term option.

My Pros: Excellent UV protection, enhanced traction, and filling of voids and cracks. Restoring an older deck is an excellent idea if it works.

My Cons: So far, most of these product types have failed miserably. They peel after the first Winter and cannot be removed with a deck stain stripper. Sanding, scraping, or even the replacement of the wood is needed. There are many reviews on our site and other sites with angry consumers and product failures. Class action lawsuits are being filed against Rust-oleum Deck Restore and Olympic Rescue-It. Behr Deckover has the same issues as well. Only a couple of these products seem to work. Consider the Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive if you want one of these coatings. See this link for more info, articles, and reviews on these coatings: Deck Resurface Coatings.

Gulf Synthetics Deck Revive Photos

 

Solid Color Decking Stains (Opaque)

✅ Solid Color Deck Stains

  • Appearance: Opaque (paint-like finish)
  • Wood Grain: Hidden
  • Protection Level: Maximum UV protection
  • Best For: Very old or damaged wood
  • Maintenance: High—prone to peeling and requires more prep

Solid deck stains look like paints but are thinner for better adhesion and penetration into the wood. They cover or mask the wood, so you will no longer see the wood grain. Once you apply a solid decking stain, there is little chance you will ever be able to go back to a transparent stain. Solid stains come in water-based versions only nowadays.

My Pros: Excellent UV protection.

My Cons: Films on top of the wood do not penetrate well, are susceptible to peeling, look like paint, and are more challenging to apply. They cannot be effectively removed with a deck stain stripper.

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Solid Color Deck Stain Photos

Semi-Solid Wood Deck Stains

✅ Semi-Solid Deck Stains

  • Appearance: Rich color, less grain visibility
  • Wood Grain: Partially visible
  • Protection Level: Higher UV protection
  • Best For: Older decks with imperfections
  • Maintenance: Moderate—can build up over time

A Semi-Solid Deck Stain will only show a small amount of wood grain as it contains a high amount of pigment. Only a limited number of manufacturers offer semi-solids, which can be both water-based and oil-based.

My Pros: They provide excellent UV protection. However, if they are water-based, they are prone to peeling. Look for oil-based semi-solid stains only.

My Cons: Only a tiny amount of wood grain will show. Oil-based semi-solid versions will penetrate and perform much better than water-based versions.

Semi-Solid Deck Stain Photos

Semi-Transparent Wood Deck Stains

✅ Semi-Transparent Deck Stains

  • Appearance: Adds color while enhancing grain
  • Wood Grain: Clearly visible
  • Protection Level: Moderate UV and water protection
  • Best For: Most decks
  • Maintenance: Easy to clean and recoat every 2–3 years

These are my favorites, but the primary key is that it must be a penetrating semi-transparent stain. Semi-transparent deck stains contain pigments that highlight the natural grain while sealing the surface. Both water and oil-based are available.

My Pros: They offer average to better-than-average UV protection, show natural grain, and have very good penetration. In most scenarios, they can be cleaned and re-coated easily and removed with a deck stain stripper.

My Cons: Most water-based versions perform poorly compared to the oils. Many states with Low VOC laws have limited quality oil-based stains available. You may need to buy online if you live in a low VOC area.

Semi-Transparent Deck Stain Photos

Transparent Wood Deck Stains

✅ Transparent Deck Stains

  • Appearance: Clear or very light tint
  • Wood Grain: Fully visible
  • Protection Level: Low UV protection
  • Best For: New wood, premium hardwoods (ipe, mahogany)
  • Maintenance: Requires frequent reapplication (annually in many cases)

Transparent deck coatings look the most natural as they contain minimal pigment. The average life of a transparent decking stain is about one year. Mostly oil-based only are available.

My Pros: Straightforward to apply and reapply as needed. Natural-looking.

My Cons: Below average UV protection. Typically, it needs to be re-coated annually.

Transparent Deck Stain Colors

Clear Wood Deck Finishes

Clear Deck Sealer

Clear Deck Sealer

✅ Clear Wood Sealers (No Color Added)

  • Appearance: Completely clear with no pigment
  • Wood Grain: 100% visible (natural look)
  • Protection Level: Low UV protection, good water repellency
  • Best For: New wood, hardwoods (ipe, mahogany), and users wanting a natural, unstained look
  • Maintenance: Requires frequent reapplication (often every 6–12 months)

Clear wood sealers are designed to protect the wood from water penetration while maintaining its natural color. Unlike transparent deck stains, they contain no added pigments, which means they offer little to no UV protection from the sun.

Because of this, wood sealed with a clear sealer will typically gray faster when exposed to sunlight compared to even lightly pigmented stains.

👉 When to Use a Clear Wood Sealer

  • You want a completely natural, “no-color” appearance
  • You want the wood to gray
  • The deck is covered or has minimal direct UV exposure
  • You are okay with more frequent maintenance

⚠️ Downsides of Clear Sealers

  • No UV protection
  • Faster graying in full sun
  • More frequent maintenance than pigmented stains

My Pros: They do not change the appearance of the wood. They are extremely easy to apply.

My Cons: In months, the wood will gray and oxidize from the sun’s UV.

Low VOC Stains and States

Currently, 20 States and Canada restrict Decking Stains and Coatings. These states require fewer Volatile Organic Compounds to be released into the air. The lower VOC changes mainly affect oil-based coatings. By lowering the amount of “solvents” that can evaporate into the ozone, you need to increase the amount of “solids.” This can cause issues with oil-based stains, which may have drying and curing problems. A few good oil-based stains are still allowed in the Low VOC States but are not as readily available at your local stores. You may need to go online to find them and have them shipped. Examples would be the TWP 1500 Series and Armstrong Clark Wood Stains.

Current Low VOC States:

California, Colorado, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, Vermont, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Northern VA, Pennsylvania, Arizona, Ohio, Illinois, and Indiana.

LOW VOC States Deck Stains

Common Deck Stain Type Questions

What are Deck Stains, and Why Use Them?

Deck stains protect and preserve exterior wood. They offer UV protection, water repellency, mold and mildew resistance, and more. Deck coatings come in many types of opacity and bases. Based on their VOC laws, many deck stain brands can be restricted in certain states, cities, and countries, and unfortunately, walking into your local store may produce some of the worst options available.

Difference of Non-Drying Oil vs Drying Oil-Based Stains

Drying oils are “curing” oils. This means that they actually dry on top of or just below the surface. They will also help “seal” the wood. Non-drying oils are the opposite. They never dry or fully cure but dive deep into the wood to help condition the cells. Paraffin oil (not wax) is the most common.

Are Deck Finishes, Stains, Sealers, or Both?

This question can be confusing to homeowners. All deck stains are sealers that will help prevent water absorption. Deck sealers typically are not stains, as they do not have any pigment. Some, though, may have a very light tint.

What’s the Right Deck Stain for My Needs?

I always recommend homeowners obtain a couple of samples to start. Apply two coats of each to very small areas of the deck as a test to properly assess the color and appearance of the different stains before making a purchase. Once applied, the color of a stain often appears differently than expected, so it may or may not blend in well with the grain of the wood.

Also, I recommend checking that the price of the product you choose fits your budget. Keep in mind that higher-priced stains will not necessarily be the longest-lasting. Make sure you are happy with the appearance of the stain and choose an established brand, as you might need to buy more of the product in the future.

My Best Deck Stain Suggestions

I prefer penetrating semi-transparent products with all these different types of products as they allow the wood grain to show. They offer better-than-average UV protection and can be easier to reapply in the future. Penetration is better for oil-based versions than water-based versions. The exceptions for quality semi-transparent penetrating water-based stains would be the Defy Extreme Stains and the Restore-A-Deck Stains.

Want Free Help Choosing Your Deck Stain Type? Ask below in the comments!

See My List of the Best 8 Semi-transparent Deck Stains

What Other Tools Do I Need?

Some of the tools needed to get the job done include:

  • Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as eye coverings and gloves.
  • Deck cleaner and deck brightener (neutralizer) for prepping the surfaces.
  • Hose for rinsing things and hand rags for cleaning up.
  • Tarps or plastic for covering nearby vegetation.
  • A hammer, drill, screws, and nails for any repairs.
  • A bucket with stir sticks.
  • A pole sander and hand sander with sandpaper (no finer than 80 grit).
  • A pump-style or airless sprayer.
  • A roller and roller tray, a stain (paint) pad with a pole, or a speed mop.
  • Stain brushes with either natural or synthetic bristles.

How to Apply a Deck Stain

1. Review the Manufacturer’s Instructions

Measure your deck to best determine the proper amount of stain needed, and buy a little extra to ensure you don’t run out. Every product is slightly different, so I always read the manufacturer’s application instructions thoroughly. This helps confirm details such as whether to apply one or two coats, the dry time interval between the coats, and any safety recommendations.

2. Surface Preparation

Begin by removing all furniture and objects from the deck.

Remove any current (existing) stain using a deck stripping product. Remember to keep children and pets away from these and other chemicals. Thoroughly cleanse the surfaces using a wood cleaner, stiff brush, and power washer (if needed).

Apply a wood deck brightening product to neutralize (pH) acidity and prepare the wood pores for optimal absorption. Limit sanding except for very stubborn spots of existing stain, removing splinters, or leveling raised corners using 40 to 60-grit sandpaper. Let the surface dry completely for two days.

3. Apply Stain to One Board at a Time

You may choose to apply stain with a brush, pad, roller, or sprayer. Avoid pump sprayers and stain pads for thicker or solid stains. Begin applying stain to vertical surfaces followed by floors and staircases. Apply stain to a single board at a time completely from end to end while limiting overlap marks.

4. Use a Brush to “Even Out” the Finish

You may “back brush” the stain during the initial application and then use a separate brush to achieve a more uniform appearance.

5. Allow for Penetration and Remove Excess Stain

After the application, allow 20 to 30 minutes for the stain to completely soak into the wood. Wipe any remaining, unabsorbed stain away to avoid blotches.

6. Prevent Exposure to Moisture

Remember the importance of checking the weather forecast before starting for any chances of rain in the next 24 hours and have tarps or plastic on hand to cover the deck—just in case.

Top Oil-

Based Stain

Top Water-Based Stain

Top Solid Color Stain

Easiest to Apply Stain

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Scott Paul ~ Restoring Wood & Decks Since 1993 Owner
As an article and comment contributor to the site, Scott has been around the pressure washing industry since attending college. In 1993 he started his first company called Oakland Pressure Wash specializing in exterior pressure washing and deck staining. That company evolved into OPW L.L.C. shortly thereafter concentrating more on exterior wood and deck restoration. Scott and his Deck Cleaning Michigan company have restored over 10,000 decks in the Metro Detroit area since the early years. He has become an authority in the deck restoration industry and has contributed to numerous wood restoration forums and informative sites. All the products he suggests through this site are sold through online sites and in retail stores, allowing the consumer to choose their own means of purchase. Scott’s eCommerce sites do sell many top brands he endorses and if you appreciate any of the help he has offered then feel free to purchase from one of them.

Related Deck Stain Help Articles & Reviews

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Sheryl
Sheryl
10 years ago

Hi we live in Omaha Nebreaska, my son has purchased a home which has a treated wood deck. We have pressure washed and sanded. What brand and type of stain would you recommend for his use. We would like something that lasts and is easy to maintain in the future. Thanks for your sitlte. I have found it very useful!

Gregg
Gregg
10 years ago

I installed a new redwood deck about three months ago. Without reading anything on it, I sanded and Thompson water sealed immediately after construction due to winter about to set in (I sealed at the lower end of temperature recommendation). It did not turn out great. The wood coloring has lightened and is uneven. I want to retain the natural redwood colors and grain. The deck faces the northeast and I am in the southern Sierras of Calif. at about 3,000 ft. Any suggestions?

Raymond
Raymond
10 years ago

This article is very informative and helpful.

JIm
JIm
10 years ago

What are your thoughts about Ready Seal Stain & Sealer for Wood?

Denise S
Denise S
10 years ago

I have used sikkens solid oil based stain years ago. Can I use any kind of stain now or do I have to use oil based solid again. We were able to get all of it off floor boards but not rails.

Kim
Kim
10 years ago

Great information!!! The only thing I would have liked to have included in your article is what kind of stain is best for different climates. I live in Oregon and we get a lot of moss and mold since it rains 10 months of the year in my area.

TM Anderson
TM Anderson
10 years ago

Thanks for the great site! Have you reviewed Deck Restoration Plus (Everett Abrams stain)? I saw a youtube video (Deck Stain Reviews by Andrew Theis) that put it head to head with TWP, AC and Olympus and it appeared to be superior in that video, but I can't find any other reviews. I was ready to purchase TWP 1500 tonight for my Salt Lake City redwood deck (South and East facing) until I saw that video. Any assistance is greatly appreciated as this will be the third stain purchased in the year that the deck has existed and I'd prefer to get it right this time.

Everett Abrams
Everett Abrams
10 years ago

It is not private labeled from a stain manufacturer. This is a formula that I have worked years on and am very proud of. If anyone has questions please feel free to contact me at our office toll free 866-440-3325. Everett Abrams

Terri
Terri
10 years ago

I live in the Portland, Or area and am having a new cedar fence installed. I would like to know what the very best oil based semi transparent stain is to use. I'd like a durable stain that lasts as long as possible. Most of the fence will be in full sun, but part will be shaded.

Beau Crouch
Beau Crouch
9 years ago

I just used the Flood CWF-UV and it looks great!

J. Millwe
J. Millwe
10 years ago

I live in Tucson, Az. Have a redwood deck which was sealed several years ago with a home depot common sealer.

Deck is gray and ugly. Want to clean and reseal with something that will enhance the deck's natural color if that is possible, plus will give extra UV protection. Deck is West facing and gets really hot. I will be doing the work myself. Am 74 years old so easy would help!

G con
G con
10 years ago

most informative site so far thank you!

Travis
Travis
10 years ago

Need wood fence stain/sealer to replace: Cobalt 3002-Cedar #158.

miki
miki
10 years ago

i am buying a home with a large deck..it didnt seem to have any sealant or stains on it but it was molding and graying. i pressure washed it and need to know what to use to tent as the colors arent an even tone and to seal it …any brands u could suggest ie australian oil cabot wolman…its driving me nuts trying to figure it out i dnt want to mess up the deck we love so much

Karen
Karen
10 years ago

We have two decks with many rotten boards that we have now have replaced. There was previously solid stain which we power washed and sanded. We are not really wanting to put on solid stain again but are leery about the possibility of inconsistent coverage on the new vs. old boards. We were thinking about semi-transparent. Has anyone had this issue before or does anyone have any suggestions as to what would work the best? Thanks!

Albob
Albob
10 years ago

Last fall I built a 500 sqft deck with sienna boards. Recently I went to buy a couple of deck boards and the seller asked me if any of my boards where cracking prematurely because he was receiving complaints about the boards retaining water and splitting prematurely. He said the boards had a defect and that I should apply a sealant. I am upset with this but instead of blaming someone what is my best approach to resealing the boards. I have just finished cleaning and lightly sanding the boards. I would like to use a translucent sealer to maintain the original color, any suggestions.

Mike
Mike
10 years ago

Hi I used a semi transparent cedartone on PT wood i just power washed it the crdar tonr comir is still there. I'm hoing to go with a darker semi tramsparent such as a walnut. Do i hsbe to use a stripper or brightrner or can I just go over it? In Wisconsin & can you recommend a brand?

Amy
Amy
10 years ago

Do you know anything about using ecowood on pt pine deck? Deck is new, partly uncovered and part covered under screened porch. Like the weathered look but do not want splinters. What would you recommend to achieve this look while protecting wood and feet? House is log cabin. Thanks!

Whitney
Whitney
10 years ago

i have a partially covered new redwood deck installed in July. I'm getting ready to stain it next month before snow hits. We live in Utah Your highest rated products are the TWP 1500 and 100 and Armstrong Clark. Which would you recommend? I will be using the RAD cleaner and brightener kit prior to staining. I also plan on using a transparent redwood stain… Would love your recommendations and to make sure i am doing thing right the first time!

Bill
Bill
10 years ago

I replaced old cedar with new about 3 months ago, how long do I wait until I can apply a sealer?

Eva
Eva
10 years ago

I received a quote for sealing my weathered deck. My contractor recommended WP5 – he said it is a silicone based sealer that lasts at least 10 years. Do you have any information on this product? I have a cedar wood deck.

Orlando
Orlando
10 years ago

I just power washed our deck. Previous owners used a solid stain which is about 80% off. My wife wants to use a semitransparent stain. Would you still recommend the TWP 1500 or the Armstrong Clark stains in our situation?

Hope
Hope
10 years ago

Why would you apply a primer prior to applying a solid color stain?

Hope
Hope
10 years ago

Ok I thought stain is supposed to soak into wood, wouldn't primer prevent that?
In what cases would someone use a primer before staining with a solid color stain.

Rachel
Rachel
10 years ago

Hi!
I just read in a log cabin magazine that some home owners are applying two coats of stain, and then putting a coat of transparent stain on top for extra protection. Is this helpful or necessary?
Thanks,
Rachel

Bill
Bill
10 years ago

We are building a self standing screen porch room, 12×16. In Kentucky, very humid. Will either have PT pine deck board or knotty western cedar untreated. Prefer the latter IF price is,low,enough. In that case will spray seal with Hemp Shield. But if forced to buy PT wood, I will use a low voc oil based sealer. My problem is that i want the contractor to spray seal before the deck is constructed…on all six sides. He is ok with it, but is a week long enough for the PT wood to dry out? In this short period of time what oil based sealer will penetrate we'll enough

Wjdda
Wjdda
10 years ago

A most clearly written article that helps demystify the argument of oil vs water bases strains.

Pam
Pam
10 years ago

I have an oil based transparent stain (that has a cedar color to it ) on my deck and it is starting to look terrible after two years. I planned to put another coat on it, but the can says DO NOT PUT OVER TREATED WOOD! I power washed it and did the brighten and clean thing, but it has areas that are colored and areas that are not. Some areas seems resistant to waters and others do not. What do I do now???????

R. L. Downey
R. L. Downey
10 years ago
Reply to  Pam

Am in same situation. Would be interested to read any good information you receive about this. Thanks!

Howie
Howie
10 years ago

I have a 17 year old cedar deck. I just replaced many of the cedar boards that were rotted. I now have a deck with new and aged cedar boards. I completely stripped, power washed, and sanded the entire deck. It looks almost like new. What would be your recommendation on the next step? Do I need to wait until next spring before I stain the entire deck or can I apply something else in the meantime just to preserve the wood, both old and new?
Thanks

Jen
Jen
10 years ago

Needing to stain our deck but so confused on which product would be best. Not impressed with Behr. Thoughts on Cabot?

Susan
Susan
9 years ago
Reply to  Jen

Do NOT use Behr. Our deck faile miserably and we have just spent a fortune in time and money to remove the parts that didn't peel. Behr had so many complaints on this product, they reimbursed money to those who still had the receipts (how grand of them) ha, wish they would have sent people over to remove their de K stain!!

hsl2000
hsl2000
9 years ago
Reply to  Susan

I too have had a terrible experience with Behr, after excellent results with Cabot semi-transparent. (In fact, we did not do the railings in one section because they were still good after several years and they are still much, much better looking than the Behr that we put on last year.) This was especially frustrating because we chose the exact Behr product that Consumer Reports rated as their best. Still trying to figure out what to do with the horrific mess that the Behr stuff left us with.

Greg
Greg
9 years ago
Reply to  hsl2000

I had the same exact experience. Behr did reimburse stipper and sent new stain but that doesn't take care of the work I will have to do to get something different on there that will last for more than a year in Minnesota.

Don
Don
10 years ago

I need to restain decorative posts on the garage, shutters on the house and an exterior support beam on the deck (but not the deck surface – it's Trex). I'm not sure if the original stain was water-based or oil based. I don't want to remove the shutters but plan on power washing everything except the deck beam which I sanded. What type of stain would you suggest – water or oil? I want to use the same product on everything.

Rick
Rick
10 years ago

Curing time ?

Missy
Missy
10 years ago

Hi, we have an 8 year old cedar deck, in Minnesota, southwest facing. We've power washed it, stripped it, used deck wash, sanded, filled holes with Elmer's wood putty, and sanded again. I think the putty was a mistake because it dried so white and now the deck looks spotted. What would you suggest we should we do next to prep it and which stain should we get? We have purchased the Cabot Australian Oil in Mahagony Flame from Home Depot (returnable). I'm kinda nervous about applying it and having the deck look crummy after all this prep. Please advise. Thanks!

Sandy
Sandy
10 years ago

What are the cons of using a sprayer for a deck stain? It would be done by a professional painter.

John
John
10 years ago

We live in the pacific NW and we just built a new deck with pressure treated wood. We also have another deck that was built last fall, which we never stained because of the weather. We are now thinking of buying the TWP 1500 for both. We will be pressure washing both decks prior to applying stain, do we need to apply a cleaner as well before we stain?

Keith
Keith
10 years ago

I'm in a huge dilemma and the information I'm receiving is conflicting. I just finish building a deck last and this year I'm going to stain it. However my phobia stems from me screwing up the last part of the project. What's the best over all stain for the protection of the wood? I like the colors of the solid stains since they have more variety of colors. I can live with the semi transparent stains,but that's it. Which is best for not causing problems, semi transparent vs solids.? Cost is not a factor. Full sun exposure. However the deck is around my pool. Which is the best manufacturers of stain with these criteria? Oil based all the way. To avoid issues with the stain I have have no problem with more maintenance as long as the stain doesn't fail. Could u help with my decision. Thanks. Keith

Keith
Keith
10 years ago

Sorry to split hairs twp 1500 bs armstrong clark which do loke best? Both products seem to have good reviews.

Ellen
Ellen
10 years ago
Reply to  Keith

I would go with a semi transparent. My personal experience with the solids is that they peel up, and NOT after years of use. I did my decks in a solid and will never ever again! The decks will be replaced this year and I'll be using a semi-transparent oil based stain. Just a suggestion: Check out Arborcoat semi-transparent stains which can be purchased at True Value Hardware stores.

Ben
Ben
10 years ago

If I stain my full sun deck with dark brown semi transparent stain will the surface be overly hot to touch? My old deck was very hot but it had solid stain.

ben
ben
10 years ago

but so much that i should avoid it? i guess is my question

John Spoeri
John Spoeri
10 years ago

I am in the Chicago area. I have a cedar wood deck which I stained with Sikkens Cetol SRD Mahogany (transparent) 2 years ago. The high traffic pathways are worn down, but otherwise it has held up well. It seems that they don't make the Sikkens Cetol SRD Mahogany anymore, instead they now make the water soluble Sikkens Proluxe. I have read that the colors don't match up anymore between the old and new products. This is important to me, as I am only redoing horizontal surfaces. Any thoughts?

Sjb
Sjb
9 years ago
Reply to  John Spoeri

Home Depot does sell the Sikkens oil stain in Mahogany in both translucent and transparent, I just saw it on their web site but not sold in stores

tharooster
tharooster
10 years ago

I bought a new house deck is in good shape treated wood but rails are rougher imma sand and work on them and use a cleaner and brightner on rest. Then i wanted to use a clear oil based or a semi thats stands up to alabama ridiculous heat and humidity while preserving deck for as long as possible. Opinion on clear vs semi? Name brand to go with? Was looking at defy or flood uv or even a marine deck sealer but not near the water?

Teresa Hoeing
Teresa Hoeing
10 years ago

I have a pressure treated 22 year old deck in Indiana. Deck is in wooded area and 90% shaded by trees. Have used Thompson Wood Protector EACH fall after cleaning with dish liquid and bleach with a stiff broom. Have not been happy with the new formula the last two years. I sprayed on the product the first twenty years. Now have to brush/roll on the new formula as it is too thick to use in pump sprayer. The new formula has not performed as well as the old formula. Would like to try a new brand this year. Any suggestions??? Indiana is not a VOC controlled state.

patrick
patrick
10 years ago

I live in suburbs of Chicago Illinois. for the last 2 years we used BEHR PREMIUM® Semi-Transparent Weatherproofing All-In-One Wood Stain & Sealer and the stuff flakes in traffic areas. my uncle used to get a BEHR paint that was something like an oil base or something and his deck turns out. My deck is on the south side of the house so it gets the sun light all day which I think would minimize the mold growth. Im looking for something that I don't have to repaint every year.

Matt
Matt
10 years ago

I have a Behr semi-trans in credit which is like a thin red paint – can I apply a Flood white solid over the top without the bher underneath showing through?

Will I need multiple costs of Flood solid white? I'm doing solid white in the verticals over the Behr semi.

Matt Leitl
Matt Leitl
10 years ago

Hi, your article was extremely informative! I was hoping you could help us address our issue specifically. We recently refinished our deck and, unfortunately, we did not do enough research prior to staining. A couple months after staining with Sherwin Williams Deckscapes "cedar toner" black mold spots started appearing all over the place. It was so bad I had to resand the entire deck to the bare wood. I then washed the deck with a bleach and detergent solution and we re-stained with the same Sherwin-Williams product. Low and behold, a couple months later here comes the mold! I should mention that we live in Massachusetts and the summers are very humid and we also have extremely high levels of tree pollen. Mind you, this deck is almost 1000 ft.² and I don't have the energy to keep screwing up! Could you recommend the best stain stripper, deck cleaner and semi transparent or semisolid stain for our situation? A stain with the best mold resistance is in order here. Also, would a solid stain provide more mold resistance than a semi solid or semi transparent? Your advice is greatly appreciated! I read up on the TWP stripper, cleaner and 5 gallon stain kit for $250. Not sure if you'd recommend that as her best option, though…

Matt Leitl
Matt Leitl
10 years ago

Thanks for the information! In preparing the deck ( which is currently finished with Sherwin-Williams oil based stain )for a new finish do we need to strip all the existing stain? I'm assuming the answer is yes if we were to switch to a water based stain (like defy extreme) but do we still need to strip all the current stain off if we go with A new oil based stain like TWP 1500? Is it also necessary to use a bleach and detergent solution and a wood brightener after stripping and prior to re-staining? Thanks again!

Matt Leitl
Matt Leitl
10 years ago

Thanks again! And finally, if you had to choose between defy extreme and TWP 1500 which would you choose in our situation? Again, high humidity in the summers and cold snowy winters. A very high pollen counts is common. We also live in a valley and so there is a lot of mold…

Matt Leitl
Matt Leitl
10 years ago

Thanks again!

Matt Leitl
Matt Leitl
10 years ago

I decided to go with defy stain. Considering I have experienced extreme mold problems, would it be advantageous to use defy marine over defy extreme even though our deck is not near water? I'm just curious, do you know what the difference is between the extreme and the Marine in terms of ingredients?

Prem
Prem
10 years ago

Your Article was extremely helpful to me. Read many other articles, they were good, but, very confusing . Seems they were trying to sell one product over another. Thank you so much.

Thermalsol
Thermalsol
10 years ago

Piedmont NC, South facing covered front porch. Gets sun in winter, only around the edges in summer. 8′ x 32′, good overhangs. Was sealed about 5 years ago, but I do not know with what. Painter disappeared mid job. Pressure treated pine, 17 years old in good shape. Just washed and is a little light in color. Want only wood color back, protection and no stain color. Pollen is a bigger problem than mold (oak woods). Can I use an oil sealer if a water sealer has been applied in the past?

Rich
Rich
10 years ago

Similar to many posts, but have 'refinish anxiety' 🙂 My deck was 20+ years old, 40 x 14', Northern NJ, mostly shaded. 25% of decking was needing replacement. Found entire framework under deck was carpenter ant eaten. Redoing entire base, but want to flip and reuse good decking. All surfaces will be sanded. Questions:
1) If I mix the new and old randomly and then sand old and new, how long to let new decking breathe before staining?
2) I lean towards a dark semi-transparent oil based stain, given the sanding of all surfaces new/old, will the color match reasonably?
3) Should I use a cleaner/brightener on sanded deck to open pores of new wood to help better color match?
4) The underside of the 75% of good, old decking looks surprisingly good. Should I worry about completely removing screws/nails if I use semi-trans oil in a dark color?
5) Should I not use semi-trans for this scenario? I'd like to minimize future ease of maintenance and increase deck longevity. I have a power washer and am OK with a good blast every 2 years and a simple reapply of semi-trans vs. full resand on a solid stain.

Thanks in advance for your advice on this scenario!

Rich

Pat
Pat
10 years ago

I have a rather large deck 13 x 33 foot. Full southern exposure in south jersey. Deck is 15to years old and in decent shape. I used the Behr solid stain a few years ago. Not terribly happy with the way its held up to sun but stain on the rail posts has held up ok. If I understand correctly, from reading your reply to Michele, are you saying I will not be able to strip the Behr solid stain? And if not can i apply a different brand of solid stain or am I stuck with the Behr product? Thanks.

Pat
Pat
10 years ago

I really do not want to go the sanding route. Way too much work especially if I am applying solid again. Can I simply power wash really good then just apply the Flood product right over whatever remains of the Behr?

Michelle
Michelle
10 years ago

Hi, we had a fence added to our backyard and recently used behr solid wood stain on it as that's what the previous owners had used on the existing deck. After it dried we came to realize that behr has changed the colors and so the fence is much lighter. Seems like our options are to try to strip the deck entirely (which we may need to do eventually but it's not in terrible shape just yet) and restain or maybe we can do a second coat on the fence and see if we can get HD to remix the stain with a slightly darker color and then do a second coat on the fence? Appreciate any opinions! Thanks!!!

Michelle
Michelle
10 years ago

Ok thanks-I know second coats are not always recommended but hopefully it will be ok. Just for future-how can we update the main deck in spots where it looks worn etc.. If we can't strip the stain? Can we restain there as well? Thanks again

Sue
Sue
10 years ago

Put new cedar deck/porch in last summer. We power washed last summer with deck cleaner and power washed 2 days ago with deck wash. Deck looks great!! Do I still need to use deck brightner? Can't find brands you've mentioned in mpls. Area, Some one recommended Sikkens!! Do you know anything about that product? We were hoping to get it sealed this weekend? Do you happen to know any brands I can buy in mpls. Mn.
Thanks
Sue

Sue
Sue
10 years ago

We put a cedar deck/porch in last summer. We power washed last summer with deck cleaner and then learned we should wait to stain. Power washed with deck cleaner again last night. Looks great , do we still need to do deck brightner? If so do we need to power wash or can we just hose it down? Also the stains you have mentioned we are not finding in mpls. Area, we were told to use sikkens any thoughts on that brand?
Thank-you
Sue

plain jane 96
plain jane 96
10 years ago

Thank you for your helpful information. We have finished stripping and brightened with Restore a Deck and will next remove the wood furring/fuzzies. This is the 3rd time we have stripped the redwood deck along with 6 pair of shutters in the 30 + years since we built. Have used CWF each time but know that the product has changed over the years through experience. The last time stripped, brightened and stained was 5 years ago with CWF-UV5. Which TWP would you recommend in semi-transparent stain, the 100 or the 1500 series? TWP web site states the 1500 is "Best" and has more solids. The deck is covered on the north and west side of the house and gets sun until about 2 p.m.on the stairs and railings which lead to a concrete patio below with the walk out basement. What color is close to the Natural Tone of the CWF? Really like that color as it goes great with the reddish brick (hubby is a bricklayer).

plain jane 96
plain jane 96
10 years ago

Live in Nebraska south central in the country.

Patti
Patti
10 years ago

We have a covered front porch and steps which were stained with SW Deckscapes oil-based semi transparent deck stain. We live in the mountains of NC, the porch faces east, and gets some sun, but not heavy. It has not been fully treated in almost ten years, but my husband has done occasional touch ups on the railings, which are cedar, but all other horizntal surfaces are pressure treated. I hate the look now, which is dull, shows dirt easily, and on the pressure treated wood I don't see the wood grain. Can we just use an oil based primer and then paint with an oil based paint for floors to get a little shine on our surface since we can't see the wood grain anyway? Or do we have to use the same oil based deck stain? And if so, is just pressure washing ok, or do we have to strip first (our last choice)?

jcrn
jcrn
10 years ago

Several years ago, we put an opaque stain, not water based, on our deck. It has held up very well but when we power washed it recently, even using the lowest setting, to get rid of mildew and dirt, it stripped some of the stain off. Until then, we hand scrubbed the deck or hosed it off but this year the mildew was impossible to kill and I took a hard fall.

Can we put new stain in top of the old without having to strip all of the old stain off? Or do we have to start from scratch?

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