Best Stain for Composite Decks – What to use? 4.6/5 (53)

This post was updated on April 4, 2025

Staining Composite Decks in 2026

At DeckStainHelp.com, we appreciate your continued support as we maintain our position as the internet’s leading resource for wood and deck restoration. Composite decks have surged in popularity in recent years, and while many homeowners believe they are maintenance-free, that is not the case. Like any outdoor surface, composite decking is susceptible to fading, graying, warping, and mold growth. To protect and enhance your composite deck, applying a quality composite deck stain is essential.

Why Stain a Composite Deck?

Composite decking consists of a blend of wood and plastic, making it prone to UV fading, moisture damage, and mildew growth over time. A composite deck stain helps:

• Block UV rays to prevent fading and discoloration.
• Repel moisture to reduce warping and swelling.
• Prevent mold and mildew buildup for a cleaner, healthier deck surface.

How to Stain a Composite Deck

Step 1: Clean the Deck Thoroughly

Before staining, the surface must be completely cleaned to ensure proper adhesion. Follow these steps: ✔ Use a composite deck cleaner and a scrub brush or pressure washer to remove dirt, mold, mildew, and graying. ✔ Focus on mildew removal – composite decks are prone to mildew due to their wood content. ✔ Allow the deck to dry completely before applying the stain to avoid trapping moisture.

Step 2: Choose the Right Composite Deck Stain

✔ Opt for a high-quality, penetrating composite deck stain that resists UV fading and discoloration. ✔ Look for stains with mildewcides or inhibitors to prevent future mold and mildew growth. ✔ Stains with zinc particles offer added protection against mildew and fungi.

Step 3: Apply the Stain Correctly

✔ Use a brush, roller, or stain pad for even application. ✔ Avoid over-applying to prevent pooling or an uneven finish. ✔ Stay away from film-forming or solid stains, as these can trap moisture, peel, and encourage mildew growth.

Our Test Composite Deck Stain

We recently prepped and stained a very old and dirty Trex deck in Spring of 2021. We applied the penetrating TWP Semi-Solid Pro-Series to the Trex, and it turned out outstanding! Looks brand new and the TWP soaked deep into the composite decking with no issues. We highly suggest the TWP Semi-Solid if you are looking to add some color or stain to your old composite decking.

TWP Semi-Solid Pro Series

Prep Materials: Restore A Deck Cleaner Kits

Color Used: TWP Semi-Solid Mount Rushmore

Coverage: 1 coat was applied. 4.5 gallons were used. Coverage was about 200 Sq Feet per gallon.

TWP Semi-Solid Pro-Series Review: TWP Pro-Series Semi-Solid

TWP Semi-Solid Wood Stain 1 Gallon

$73.99

5.00out of 5

Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

TWP Semi-Solid Wood Stain 5 Gallon

$294.95

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TWP Semi-Solid Wood Stain 1 Gallon – LOW VOC

$87.99

Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

TWP Semi-Solid Wood Stain 5 Gallon – LOW VOC

$374.95

Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Composite Deck Stain Photos

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.

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