This post was updated on May 2, 2022
Using a Solid Color Deck Stain 2022
Solid Color Deck Stain
There are many different types of coatings when dealing with decking stains. Before searching for a deck stain, you should determine the look you want. Some stains (solid colors) will completely hide the wood grain similar to paint. When is the best time for a solid color opaque deck stain? This article will help with this topic.
It is important first to understand the different opacity levels of deck stains.
Semi-Transparent Deck Stains – A semi-transparent deck stain allows most of the wood’s natural color to show through will soaking into the wood grain.
Semi-Solid Deck Stains – Most semi-solid deck stains will almost completely hide the wood grain and natural color.
Solid or Opaque Decking Stains – These types of wood stains hide the grain completely and provide the most UV protection. Solid color stains will “film” on top of the wood, masking the grain while looking like paint. It should be noted that solid color deck stains are harder and normally more expensive to maintain.
So when is it best to use a Solid Color Deck Stain? Here are a few scenarios:
- Two-Toned Decks. The use of a solid stain only on the verticals and a semi-transparent for the floors. See this article for tips: Why Have a Two-Toned Deck
- Your Deck is already coated with a Solid Stain. See here for a list of the Best Solid Color Deck Stains
- Your deck is really old and on its last legs requiring a solid coating to hide all the imperfections.
- You like the solid color look! Many people prefer to have a solid color look for their deck. If that is what you are looking for, make sure to use one of the best brands. Restore-A-Deck Solid Stain is our go-to solid stain as deck restoration contractors.
Best Solid Color Deck Stain Photos
The Best Solid Color Deck Stain Video – DeckStainHelp.com
Any Questions on Solid Color Deck Stains? Ask Below!
Deck Stain Help & Questions
- Can You Stain Pressure Treated Wood Right Away
- Cleaning Wood With Bleach and Water
- Home Depot Outdoor Stain
- What to Use to Clean Deck Before Staining
- When to Stain a Deck
- Best Water Based Stain
- Sand Deck Before Staining
- Clear Deck Sealer
- Wood Deck Brightener
- IPE Stain Colors
- Deck Stain Before and After
Stain Reviews & Comparisons
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.
Do you recommend semi-transparent or solid stain for a new, covered, screened-in porch?
Penetrating semi-transparent. See here for tips: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/how-long-should-you-wait-to-stain-a-new-deck/
Great site ! I have a 19 yr old wooden deck in generally good condition woodwise. I have used clear stained on it every couple of years. I just used Sherwin Williams Stain & /Sealer Removal followed by Sherwin Williams ‘Revive’ —- pictures are attached. I’m trying to get an opinion on using semi- solid VS solid stain —- can you help ?
Oil based VS water based ???
Recommendations appreciated !!
Bill S
First pic is before cleaning etc.
Second /Third pic is AFTER cleaning
You have a lot of imperfections in this wood so we would suggest a solid stain to cover it all and so it looks food when done: https://www.deckstainhelp.com/what-are-the-best-solid-color-deck-stains/
I live in NC….have deck with full sun exposure during half the day. It already has solid stain on it and am in process of having it re-done. Can’t get RAD or Defy unless i order online. Am able to buy Flood here and wondered if that is the one to buy or if other better options. Am planning to purchase from a paint store rather than a big box store
Flood makes a decent solid stain.
I’m replacing a few boards on my deck before staining with RAD solid. Do I need to let those new boards remain without stain for 6 months or so?
3 months and then prep.
Why are solid stains considered permanent decisions? For example, how come if my deck is a solid stain currently it’s very difficult to change it to a semi-transparent look?
The only way to switch from a solid stain to something with less transparency is to power sand it all off and that is not easy to do.
Flooring and steps were replaced in my deck 3 months ago. The railings and lattice are about 4 years old. Also have a new fence that butts up to the deck on one side. Deck is shaded by several pine trees.
Have been told a solid stain is all I can use but concerned about mold growth and deck being slick when wet. I have read your reviews about Restore a deck being good but color choice is poor. I do not have a store close by that sells Defy.
I am going to put house on the market soon – should I just use a clear stain?
A solid stain would blend better all the different ages of the wood. It is not slippery when wet.
Thanks! What would you recommend if I cannot get Defy?
The trees are dropping leaves and straw daily now so will the solid stain dry fast enough or will anything that falls on it leave a mark? Would wait until spring but trying to get it done before listing the house
It should be fine as long as you have an hour or two of drying.
Flood solid stain.
Does a solid stain have to be removed before restraining the deck?
When recoating with another solid stain prep to remove all dirt, loose/peeling stain, etc. You can then cover the rest with a new solid stain.
if we use a solid stain do we have to remove it to redo the deck next time?
I have read that solid stain lasts the longest. Is this correct?
No, solid stains will not last any longer than a quality semi-transparent.
Can you use TWP solid color stain over Behr Deckover? Do we have to remove the Deckover first or can we apply over top?
TWP does not come in a solid color. In addition, nothng can be applied over the Deckover. That would have to be removed first.