This post was updated on January 18, 2023
The Top Deck Stain Ratings Video
In this video, we have listed the Top 5 Current Deck Stains in 2023 that we have reviewed based on our experience and consumer ratings of each product.
New Smooth Wood
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, ease of reapplication. Our favorite deck stains have always been 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.
Deck Stain Help & Questions
Stain Reviews & Comparisons
Products & Brands
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.
Hi! I have a new (2 month) small set of redwood landing steps that I’d like to keep looking new and highlighting the original color, not weathered /gray. Im in California. Which deck stain would you recommend ?
See here about new wood tips and what stain rbands we suggest: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/how-long-should-you-wait-to-stain-a-new-deck/
I currently have behr premium semi transparent weather proofing all
In one stain. It is a dark color. I want to change the color and was told if I use solid then I will only have to clean the deck and not strip it. Do I need to strip the previous stain first? It is a dark brown semi transparent, the color I want is dune gray solid. Thank you.
You do not have to remove all the old stain but you should still strip off the loose stain and pressure wash before applying your solid stain: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/what-are-the-best-solid-color-deck-stains/