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Deck Stain Reviews

The 6 Best Deck Stain Reviews and Ratings

Update for 2018 Season:

Best Deck Stain Reviews for 2018

Best Deck Stain Reviews

DeckStainHelp.com is a help and review site with the goal of offering advice to homeowners with the difficult task of restoring their exterior wooden decks, docks, and wood homes. We have been using and reviewing wood and deck stains since we started working on restoring exterior wood in the early 1990s. This site was developed to help consumers research and ask questions on what would be the best deck stain, with the goal of longevity and just as important, the ease of reapplication.

Our favorite deck stains have always been the penetrating semi-transparent stains. These stain types allow the wood grain to show and if they truly soak into the wood grain, reapplying is easier down the road. The problem we have noticed in the last 5-10 years is that not all semi-transparent stains are penetrating. Many manufacturers have gone away with the true penetrating stains due to VOC laws and for profitability. Believe it or not, but deck stains in general performed better 10-20 years ago when it came to wearing and peeling than they do in 2018. There have been some major advancements though when it comes to UV protection in the past 5-10 years. Nano-particles of zinc oxides and improvements to trans-oxides have shown excellent UV resistance.

The good news is you can still find some quality deck stains in 2018 that will offer UV protection, penetrate deep into the wood grain, and highlight the natural beauty of the wood.

New for 2018: Restore-A-Deck Wood Stain is the only stain we have tested can be applied to dry or damp wood. Applying to damp wood allows you the ability to prep and stain on the same day, saving you a tremendous amount of time. As deck restoration contractors since 2001, we are excited to be able to use the Restore A Deck Wood Stain as one of our go-to decking stains for the 2018 restoration season.

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TWP 100 Series Wood and Deck Stain Review 2016

Update 2018 for TWP 100 Series Review

Here at DeckStainHelp.com we take pride in the fact that we have become the Internet’s go-to site for all things exterior wood and deck restoration related. Hearing from our customers who have used TWP 100 Series wood, their decks have held up to the test of time and weather after this harsh winter. As always, we appreciate your input, so feel free to leave a comment below and pictures of your completed projects if you have them.

TWP 100 Stain Review

Important Note: This is our 3rd Review of TWP 100 Series.

See our other reviews of the TWP 100 Series here: TWP 100 Wood Stain Reviews

TWP 100 “Total Wood Preservative” Deck Stain protects and maintains all exterior wooden surfaces. TWP Wood Stain is a special blend of chemicals in a contractor grade formula that safeguards and protects exterior wooden surfaces.

TWP® 100 SERIES penetrates deeply into wood without excessive surface film build, highlighting existing grain patterns with amazing clarity and warmth and is specifically designed to provide protection against the four major causes of wood degradation: wood rot, water, sunlight & mildew.

TWP Exterior Wood Preservatives are the only wood and deck stains on the market that are registered as exterior wood preservatives by the EPA.

TWP Deck Stains – 100 Series Review

TWP 100 Series Wood Deck Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 9

– We prepped the deck first with the Gemini Restore Kit and applied the TWP 120 Pecan color after a few days of drying. This deck was originally done with the TWP 101 Cedartone. The customer wanted to use the Pecan this time as it has a slight “brown” tone. The overall appearance was excellent.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 8

– Same as the first time tested, The TWP Pecan 120 retained about 80% of the original color after 2 years of full exposure to the elements.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 9

– Very minor or no wearing of the TWP. TWP penetrates very well into the wood grain so this is normal and expected.

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TWP 1500 Wood and Deck Stain Review 2017

Update 2018 for TWP 1500 Series Reviews and Ratings

Here at DeckStainHelp.com we take pride in the fact that we have become the Internet’s number one resource for all things exterior wood and deck restoration related. As years before, our customers who have used TWP wood and deck stain continue to be satisfied by the appearance and longevity of their deck stain projects. If you have used TWP wood and deck stain in the past, or if you are using it for the first time this year, we appreciate your input, so feel free to leave a comment below and pictures of your completed projects if you have them.

TWP 1500 Stain Review

Important Note: This is an updated 2017 TWP 1500 Series Review.

TWP® (Total Wood Preservative) 1500 Series Deck Stain was brought onto the market in 2010 as the permanent substitute for TWP 500 Series. TWP 1500 Wood and Deck Stain is a semi-transparent, oil based, EPA registered wood preservative.

TWP 1500 Stain is specially formulated to use on all exterior wood surfaces. Its outstanding UV resistant blend prevents wood graying and discoloration. It is commonly used on decks, fences, log cabins, wood siding and cedar shakes. It is offered in 10 shades that enhance the natural beauty of the wood.

TWP 1500 Deck Stain Rating

TWP 1500 Series Deck Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 8.5

– The appearance of TWP 1500 Wood Stain on our test deck was a warm rich finish. The wood grain was enhanced and highlighted effortlessly. The 1501 Cedartone color was a little browner (not as orange) than a conventional cedar stain color.

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Latest Consumer Magazine Reports on Decking Stains

Latest Consumer Magazine Reports on Decking Stains is out again this year and we have been getting some questions as to why our ratings differ so much compared to their highest rated products. We have compiled a list of reasons why we believe our reviews and ratings are more realistic and honest examples of how a deck stain actually performs.

Contractor Restoration

Reviews and articles are posted from our experience as contractors who specialize in exterior wood restoration. We are experienced in the trade of prepping and applying a stain to an exterior deck.

Real World Testing vs. Individual Board Testing

The stains are tested on actual decks with normal exposure to weather and traffic. Consumers uses a test on an individual board that sees no traffic or use. This board is not exposed to normal everyday “real world” conditions.
Brands Tested: Big Box Store Brands vs All Stain Brands

We test all available brands and versions. Consumers tests mainly big box store brands such as Behr, Sherwin William, Cabots, etc. Many of the best wood stains are not available at these stores but rather in high-end paint stores, lumber yards, or online.

Continue Reading

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Update on Deck Stains for 2018

Deck Stains 2018 – What’s new? What really works? What types are there?

Today we will be reporting what’s new in the deck staining industry for 2018. Out this year is the Restore-A-Deck wood stain. The Restore-A-Deck Wood Stain can be applied to damp wood, allowing for prep and stain to be completed on the same day. Restore-A-Deck Stain uses the latest in water-based wood staining technology to create a formula that allows for better UV protection, excellent penetration into the wood stain for long lasting beautiful results, and the ability to apply to damp wood for single day project completion. The Wood Stain comes in four radiant semi-transparent colors that highlight and enhance the natural wood grain.

Which stains really work? With the help of thousands of people who have completed deck stain projects over the years, we consistently see the same higher quality stains outperforming lower quality stains. Hands-down, semi-transparent wood stains seem to receive raving reviews as far as the quality and durability go. As always, be sure to choose a high-quality semi-transparent wood stain, as low-quality semi-transparent wood stains fail to penetrate the wood grain and make maintenance a pain. Click here to see the top 6 rated deck stains.

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PPG Timeless Deck Stain Review

Update for 2018: PPG Timeless Deck Stain Review

The PPG Timeless Deck Stain was introduced last year into Home Depot. The product is actually the exact same thing as the Olympic Elite Wood Stain, just relabeled for Home Depots use. The review below is a repeat of our testings of the Olympic version.

PPG Timeless Wood and Deck Stain Review

PPG Timeless Advanced Stain + Sealant in One is a deck and wood stain that is ideal for bringing the rich look of interior wood to exterior wood surfaces such as decks, doors, furniture, and trim. Delivering more pronounced color while still enabling wood grain and texture to show, it provides luxurious appeal with a beautiful satin sheen finish. Formulated with both stain and sealant combined, this protective coating offers lasting defense against UV damage, mold, mildew, warping, cracking and more, helping retain your wood’s natural beauty over time.

This is for the 550 VOC versions that is an oil-based stain. They also carry a 250 VOC version,

PPG Timeless Stain + Sealant in One Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 6

– PPG Timeless Stain is an oil based stain + sealer in one. We used the Chestnut Brown color. The appearance of the final stain finish was a brown color that did not seem to enhance the beauty of the wood as well as we had expected. However, the PPG Timeless Wood Stain did penetrate the wood fairly well and did not form a film on top.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 7

–At the 2-year test mark, PPG Timeless did hold up pretty decent with an estimated 70% color retention. Some fading and graying was noticed in traffic areas.

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Defy Extreme Clear Wood Stain Review 2017

Update for 2018: Defy Extreme Clear Wood Stain Review

Welcome to Deckstainhelp.com, your number one source for deck staining tips and latest industry news on the internet. This year in 2018, Defy Extreme Clear Wood Stain continues to be the leading clear wood stain on the market. Feel free to leave a comment if you’ve used Defy Extreme Clear Wood Stain yourself.

Defy Extreme Clear Wood Stain Review

Note: This is an updated 2017 Review of our Original Defy Extreme Clear Review

Defy Extreme Clear Wood Stain is the leading “crystal clear” deck stain finish on the market today. Defy Extreme Clear uses light stabilizing nano particles of zinc oxide, which is the same product used in sunscreen. The zinc oxide particles reflect and filter UV radiation to help eliminate wood discoloring, graying and fading. Our field test of Defy Extreme Clear Stain was on a wooden fence. A deck surface may have slightly different results.

*Important: Defy Extreme Clear is an untinted version of the Defy Extreme Stain. Customarily clear wood stains lack sun blocking pigments and do not prevent UV graying as well as tinted wood stains.

Defy Extreme Clear Wood Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 10

– The wood appearance was not altered after the Defy Extreme Clear finish dried. The stain applies to the wood a milky white color but dries clear without altering or enhancing the wood’s appearance. Defy Extreme Clear also does not film on top of the wood.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 3

–At our usual 2-year test mark the wood deck we coated had retained 30% of the original natural wood color. There was graying on the southern exposed areas. We suggest using Defy Extreme Stain if improved UV protection is wanted or reapply the Extreme Clear annually.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 10

–Defy Clear Stain showed zero signs of wear on the vertical surface of the deck surface.

Cost Per Square Foot: 7

–It took 5 gallons of Defy Extreme Clear Wood Stain to apply 2 coats to our 500 square foot test deck. With Defy Extreme Clear costing $44 a gallon on average, the cost of our test was slightly high.

Preventing Mold/Mildew/Algae: 10

– No mold or mildew was growing on or in the Defy Extreme Clear. Defy Extreme Clear deservingly scored high here due to no signs of fungal growth on or in the stain finish. This was pleasing compared to other stains we have tested.

Ease of Application: 8

–Defy Extreme Clear Wood Stain is very thin almost like water and applied well using an airless sprayer. The initial coat penetrated almost immediately upon application while the following coat took slightly longer. We did have to back brush a few drips here and there but we did not notice any overlap marks anywhere.

Color Shifting (darkening) after 2 Years: 9

–At our 2-year check of the stain’s color no visible darkening was present.

Difficulty of Reapplication: 7

–For maintenance of Defy Extreme Stain we suggest a thorough cleaning using a wood cleaner to remove any graying followed by an application of wood brightener to lighten the wood up even more. There is no need to use a stain stripper with Defy Clear because the fading was even and no heavy peeling was apparent.

Overall Score Defy Extreme Clear Wood Stain at 2 Year Period: 8

–Defy Extreme Clear Wood Stain is a good choice for those wanting a natural wood appearance. It is clear however that Defy Extreme Stain in one of the colored tints seems to prevent UV fading and graying 2 to 3 times longer than Defy Clear. Nevertheless, if you are in the market for a crystal clear wood stain that you do not mind recoating every 12-18 months then Defy Extreme Clear Stain is a great product in our opinion.

Product Information:

Help or Questions? Defy Extreme Clear Stain
Cost: $45 per Gallon, $221 per 5 Gallon Pail
Stain Type: Crystal Clear – Water Based
Available Colors: Clear
Application Temperature: 45-95 F
Coats Required: 2 Coats. “Wet on Wet”
Coverage Per Gallon: 100-150 sq. ft
Application Tools: Sprayer, Pad, Brush, Roller
Dry Time: 2-4 Hours
Cleanup: Water
VOC Compliant: 250 Compliant in all States
More Info: Product Data
Manufacturer: Saver Systems

Test Fence Stats:
Wood Type: Cedar Deck
Fence Square Footage: 500 Square feet
UV Exposure: 50% Full Sun, 50% Shade. South facing.
How Many Years Tested: 2 Seasons
Stain Color Used: Clear
*All products tested and results are from our experience. We offer no guarantee of similar results. Take into consideration that results may differ due to different wood types, exposure to UV radiation, and natural weathering.

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Ready Seal Wood and Deck Stain Review 2017

Update for 2018: Ready Seal Wood and Deck Stain Review

Welcome to Deckstainhelp.com, your number one source for deck staining tips and latest industry news on the internet in 2018. Ready Seal Wood and Deck Stain continues to follow same premature fading patterns as years before. Leave us a comment if you’ve used Ready Seal Wood and Deck Stain.

Ready Seal Stain Review

Note: This is our 2nd Review of Ready Seal Stains

Ready Seal® Wood Stain is considered a professional grade exterior wood stain. Ready Seal Wood and Deck Stain is suggested for use on all exterior wood surfaces such as decks, fences, arbors, gazebos, wood siding, roofs, and log homes. Ready Seal was originally designed for contractors but is now available to homeowners through some Home Depot stores in the southern part of the country. Ready Seal Stain is a drip and run free resulting in an even finish. The formula is a special blend of paraffin oil, resins, trans-oxide pigments, and algaecides.

Ready Seal® Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 8

– Ready Seal lived up to their claim and resulted in a nice even finish. The cedar deck we tested definitely looked more enhanced with the Natural Cedar color we applied. With that said, the color did fade quite a bit after several days as the paraffin oils continue to penetrate into the wood grain. We also do not like how the finish stays oily for several days after application or until it fully penetrates into the wood grain.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 5

– At our 2-year test mark, there was about 50% color retention.

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Sherwin Williams Super Deck Stain Review 2017

Update for 2018: Sherwin Williams SuperDeck Stain Review

We at Deckstainhelp.com appreciate your loyalty. It is our commitment to remain your number one source for deck staining tips and latest industry news on the internet in 2018. Sherwin Williams SuperDeck continues to follow same wear trends and issues with turning black as years before. Leave us a comment if you’ve used Sherwin Williams SuperDeck and let us know how your projects held up.

Super Deck Stain Review

Note: Sherwin Williams bought Super Deck in 2013. This review is for the original SuperDeck Oil-Based semi-transparent formula.

SUPERDECK® by Sherwin Williams is a professional grade exterior wood deck finish that was developed to provide superb weather protection and color enhancement. Superdeck semi-transparent deck stain utilizes iron oxide pigments to protect against harmful UV rays. Superdeck is a blend of tung and linseed oils to help inhibit the growth of mold and mildew.

A high-solid wood finish developed to give superior protection and beautiful color to exterior wood. Superdeck® Semi-Transparent Stain uses the highest quality ingredients to provide superior protection. This unique formula contains carnauba wax for an extremely durable finish and a beautiful lustrous sheen with mar and scuff resistance. Superdeck® Semi-Transparent Stain will not track and is resistant to foot traffic patterning. Superdeck® Semi-Transparent Stain is expertly formulated for any exterior surface including decks, fences, siding, and furniture. Available in a spectacular 63-color palette to capture the beauty you seek.

SUPERDECK® Semi-Transparent Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 7

–Our test deck was a cedar deck. We chose to use the Superdeck cedar color. Unfortunately, after drying the finish was a tacky uneven finish that did not dissipate for several days. A single coat of stain was applied.

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Olympic Elite Wood Stain Review 2017

Update for 2018: Olympic Elite Wood Stain Review

At Deckstainhelp.com, we appreciate your feedback. It is our commitment to remain your number one source for tips and latest industry news for all things deck stain related. Olympic Elite Wood Stain continues to receive avearge to above average reviews as years before. Leave us a comment if you’ve used Olympic Elite Wood Stain and let us know how your projects held up.

Olympic Elite Wood and Deck Stain Review

Olympic ELITE Advanced Stain + Sealant in One is a super-premium stain formulated to protect and enhance the natural look of wood with exceptional richness and depth of color. A curated color palette of 14 rich, wood-inspired colors utilizes only the most durable pigments for natural beauty and durability. Semi-transparent stains use natural oils and rich, subtle color to highlight and enrich wood’s natural grain

This is for the 550 VOC versions that is an oil based stain.

Olympic Maximum Stain + Sealant in One Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 6

– Olympic Elite Stain is an oil based stain + sealer in one. We used the Chestnut Brown color. The appearance of the final stain finish was a brown color that did not seem to enhance the beauty of the wood as well as we had expected. However, the Olympic Elite Wood Stain did penetrate the wood fairly well and did not form a film on top.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 7

–At the 2-year test mark Olympic Elite Woodland Oil did hold up pretty decent with an estimated 70% color retention. Some fading and graying was noticed in traffic areas.

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2016 Consumer Reports Deck Stain Ratings

Update for 2018: Consumer Reports Deck Stain Ratings

We here at Deckstainhelp.com remain committed to being your source for industry insights and trends for the perfect deck stain project execution. See below for information on consumer report insights in 2016. We want to hear from you. Leave us a comment below.

The Consumer Reports is the publication of the Consumer’s Union. Many consumers use the publication when making a buying decision. After all, it publishes the ratings of other consumers who have bought the same products. So it would seem a logical place to gather buying information right? Well maybe not. The Consumer Reports publication has long been accused of biased ratings.

This is especially true in the car industry. You can find countless articles of Consumer Reports being falsely suggestive in some of their ratings. Unfair testing and biased ratings seem to be common. More than a dozen large companies, from car manufacturers to electronic companies have sued consumer Reports over the years. It almost seems like for whatever reason, they tend to sway the results of tests and ratings.

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Cabot Australian Timber Oil Review 2016

Update 2018 for Cabot Australian Timber Oil Review

Here at DeckStainHelp.com, we take pride in the fact that we have become the Internet’s number one reference for your deck stain opinions and unbiased reviews. Our customers who have used Cabot Australian Timber Oil continue to give mixed reviews about the appearance and longevity of their deck stain projects. If you have used Cabot Australian Timber Oil, we would like to hear what you think, so feel free to leave a comment below and pictures of your completed projects if you have them.

Cabot Australian Timber Oil Update 2017

If you have used Cabot Australian Timber Oil please upload and post pictures of your exterior wood or deck. A short description of your experience would be helpful as well. This can be done in our comment area below. Feel free to also submit a Star Rating as well.

Cabot Australian Timber Oil

Containing a precise blend of superb-grade linseed oil for maximum penetration, long-oil alkyds for durability and pure South American tung oil for color depth and water repellency, Cabot Australian Timber Oil delivers three-way oil protection and a beautiful hardwood stain. In addition, complex translucent iron oxide pigments are added to ensure a lasting U.V.-absorbing surface rich with color and dimension. The result after years of development is an advanced-technology treatment of unrivaled performance designed to protect your wood surfaces like never before.

Cabot Australian Timber Oil Wood Deck Stain Scores (1-10)

Appearance After Initial Stain Application: 8

– The Mahogany Flame looks very red but overall very rich and nice looking on the PTP test deck. All grain was visible and not “covered” by the semi-transparent pigment.

Preventing UV Graying at 2 Year Mark: 6

-The Australian Timber Oil performed decently at the 2-year mark. It had retained about 60% of the original color.

Wear/Tear and Peeling: 8

-Some wearing but no peeling. Wear was visible on the exposed areas and under the furniture

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