This post was updated on May 1, 2024
The Worst Deck Stains in 2024?
We here at DeckStainHelp.com are proud to be the internet’s number one reference for all things wood deck restoration-related. If you have had a negative experience with deck stains, you have come to the right place to warn people. We are always looking for ways to engage with our readers, so we appreciate your input and questions by leaving a comment below.
Deck Stain Failures
Have you had a bad experience with a decking stain?
Our most popular article, “What is the Best Deck Stain” has become the #1 article for consumers on the Internet for deck stain questions and answers. We have decided to create an article based on negative consumer feedback and experiences with decking stains.
We are looking for bad experiences with a particular brand of decking stain.
Please include:
1. Brand of Deck Stain
2. Type of Deck Stain (i.e. Solid, Semi-Transparent, Transparent, Semi-Solid)
3. Location and date applied
4. How long did it take for the stain to fail and how did it fail? (Peeling, Turned Black, Mold, Etc)
5. A brief description of your overall negative experience.
Note: This is mostly for fun and to allow you to vent your frustration!
Going to stain my redwood decks. They are about 3 years old. Am using Penoflin Ultra Premium transparent oil. Planning to power wash then apply. Do you recommend sanding vs. power washing? I know the power wash needs to be set gentle enough to not damage the wood
Use a deck cleaner while pressure washing and then a wood brightener after. Do you want your deck stain to turn black over time because Penofin has known issues with doing this?
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/penofin-ultra-red-label-stain-review/
I am installing a brand new pressure treated pine wood deck in the northeast. The deck will be on the north (most shaded) part of the house. Am I better off with a water based or oil based semi transparent stain? Mold and mildew protection I believe is important? Please advise, thanks.
See here about new wood and the best options:
https://www.deckstainhelp.com/how-long-should-you-wait-to-stain-a-new-deck/
Redoing our wall cabin with behr from Home Depot heard it’s a good stain and cost is great what u think thanks
Sorry but no, Behr makes very poor wood stains. You will have many issues with peeling and mildew.
Behr failed in a matter of months for us; we followed the application instructions on the can to a T. We live on the Canadian prairies.
Have a log home from Appalachian log structures I have used Permachink ultra 7 and I am currently stripping it off and looking to change it is so expensive what would you recommend to use that might be better? Thank you sir.
I heard behr oil was really good for log homes. That’s what I’m going with very very reasonable price and the colors are amazing.
Sorry but no, Behr makes very poor wood stains. You will have many issues with peeling and mildew.
I recently put Behr penetrating oil transparent on a small front porch and joists under an awning. I did clean some mildew off with white vinegar and dawn. Just hand scrubbed and came off mostly. I like the color ( clear but slightly yellow) but concerned about mold. How would I clean it strip the joists if that becomes an issue ? Thanks
We would not worry about it unless it becomes an issue. If it happens, then post some pictures for advice.
Is Perma-Chink Lifeline Ultra 7 worth the price to stain and protect white pine in a screened in porch?
No, much better brands our there.
Which brands are better?
Any of these brands would be better: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/the-5-best-deck-stain-reviews-and-ratings/
Which stain is better a valspar stain or a sickkens prolux
Neither are any good. Both have issues with penetrating and peeling.
We bought woodsman deck stain at our local true value and had a color mix. Deck was prepared properly..The stain started peeling after 3 months !!!!!! its isnt even a year and this is what it looks like! horrible deck stain
Can you use a waterbase stain over a oil base stain to seal and get rid of mold build up?
No.