Types of Deck Finishes? 5/5 (1)

Types of deck finishes?

There are many different types of deck finishes or deck stains. The types of deck finishes include water- and oil-based deck stains, penetrating and film-forming deck stains, deck resurfacing stains, semi-transparent and semi-solid deck stains, and solid color deck stains. See the links below for details. Clear sealer or polyurethane finish is not appropriate for decks. Semi-transparent deck stains are the most recommended by DeckStainHelp.com experts.

Key takeaways

Semi-transparent deck stains are the most recommended finish type by DeckStainHelp.com experts for most residential decks.
Types of deck finishes include water-based, oil-based, penetrating, and film-forming deck stains, each with different performance traits.
Solid color, semi-solid, and deck resurfacing stains offer heavier coverage options for older or more weathered decks.
Clear sealer and polyurethane finishes are not appropriate for decks and should be avoided as a deck finish choice.

More information on the types of deck finishes

Please Rate This. You may also post comments or ask questions below.

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.

See Full Bio

Types of Deck Finishes? 5/5 (1)