This post was updated on May 1, 2024
Shelf Life Deck Stain
How long will your can of deck stain last?
You might find that when you’ve finished that big staining project, you’re left with a bunch of deck stain leftover. Well, it would be a shame to throw it away, wouldn’t it? But if you intend to store it, then there are a few things you should know first. Your stains can stay usable if following these simple guidelines.
Unopened cans of deck stain
Unopened cans of deck stain – just like regular paint – have a shelf-life of up to 5 or 6 years before they start to deteriorate. So if you didn’t have time to start your project this year then there’s no reason to worry. You can use the paint at any time that suits you within this timeframe. Make sure to store the deck stain in a temperature-controlled room. Do not let the stain freeze.
In the case that your stain has been stored for quite a while, it is recommended to take the can to a DIY store and have them use the shaker to help remix the stain and make sure it is ready for use.
Partially used cans
A more common problem is that you have already opened the can of stain, completed your deck and it is now only half-used. What can you do in this case? Most opened stains can last 12+ months if stored correctly with the lid tightly sealed. If the substance has contact with the air, the solvents will evaporate and you won’t be able to use your stain again so it’s important to ensure the container is sealed correctly.
Things to note when putting your deck stains away
The ideal environment for storing your deck stain is a cool, dry room with a steady temperature. You should also ensure that the stain cans are not exposed to direct sunlight.
Sometimes you are left with a few half-used cans of stain. In this case, you’re better off mixing them together.
The tips outlined in this article are there to help you save money. If you follow them, you will increase the shelf-life of your deck stains.
I had my stain shook last year. Never used. Should I get it reshook?
Yes.
I have a 5 gallon pail of Armstrong Clark semi trans natural oak that I purchased in July of 2019. As a newbie though I would need a lot more than I did — only used 1-2 gallons. I sealed it and it has been stored in my cool and dry basement. In reading your article I am of course worried it might have gone bad — is there any way to determine before I dispose of 3 to 4 gallons of stain and purchase new stain? Thanks.
It has most likely gone bad. Open it up and see if it has skinned or turned clumpy.
Yup, pretty clumpy and skin on top and at bottom so will call it gone. Prob not much I could have done, but I’m assuming best storage practice is as tightly sealed as possible? Seems difficult in the 5-gallon containers….
Transfer to a plastic pail with a snap on lid would work better.
thank you! great to know for the future!
can i still use cabot bleaching oil if it has previously been frozen
Probably has gone bad.
What would happen if I use an old can of deck stain?
If it is has gone bad it will look terrible and you will have to remove it and start over.
Was scrolling through the comments & was wondering if anyone has used Penofin stain. Also, is the 4 month wait time dependent on the brand of stain you use or all stains in general? I’m having a cedar fence installed on the east & west sides of my house & live in the Pacific Northwest. Any thoughts/suggestions on what to use? Thank you.
There are numerous reviews of Penofin on this site. The issue with Penofin is that it has a tendency to darken in color or even turn black.
Yes, you have to wait to stain new wood. Try TWP 100 Series.
Thank you.
We used Penofin on our IPE deck and did not get great results, blotchy looking and yes black spots turned up as well as odd white ones areas. We prepped deck correctly prior. Going with Armstrong-Clark this year. This time around we are doing a careful and painstakeningly detailed job of cleaning the deck, like overkill, but I think it will be worth it in the end. And yes using a brightener as suggested after cleaning is complete.