Is It Better To Paint or Stain an Old Deck? 5/5 (1)

Paint vs Deck Stain Old Deck

If you are looking to breathe new life into an old deck, it may seem like stain or paint can get the job done. Though it used to be that people used deck paint to restore an older deck, that is not the case anymore. It is thicker than stain, and though it can hide blemishes, it may also cover up the natural grain of the wood. Painting a deck, even with specific deck paint, can create a streaky appearance and ultimately lead to warping and peeling.

Key takeaways
  • Deck stain is the better choice for old decks, as it keeps out moisture and preserves the natural wood look.
  • Both water-based and oil-based deck stains effectively repel moisture while delivering a natural appearance without streaking.
  • Deck paint may hide blemishes but covers natural wood grain and often leads to warping and peeling over time.
  • When restoring an old deck, always choose staining over painting for longer-lasting protection and a better overall finish.

Best Deck Stain for Older DecksStain or Paint old Decking?

Deck stain is the way to go as it is formulated to keep out moisture and give a natural look and feel. You can add a nice look and finish to the deck and protect it for years to come. Whether you choose water or oil based deck stain, it will keep the unwanted moisture out and help to give a natural look. You don’t have to worry about streaking, and it will stand up for years to come. When in doubt, always go for staining the deck over painting it.

More Info on Staining old Decks

Have a Deck Stain question? Ask in the comments below.

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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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