This post was updated on June 7, 2023
Deck Stain Not beading?
Deck stains come in many different opacities. Transparent, Semi-Transparent, Solid Colors, etc. All deck stains act as a sealant that protects the wood from weather, moisture, and UV rays. They help to lock out moisture and reduce water intrusion.
One question we get often here at DeckStainHelp.com is “why does my deck stain not bead water and what should I do?”
Myth About Deck Stains Beading Water
For years there have been TV and Radio commercial promoting the need to add a sealer or stain that relies heavily on the ability to bead water. This is not a good idea. High-quality deck stains and sealers actually will shed water, not bead water. The reason is you need to have your deck stain breathable. This reduces the chance of peeling with your deck stain. 100% sealing of your wood surface can also lead to internal rotting of your wood.
To summarize, if your deck stain is not beading water, do not worry, it will be fine.
Note: A High-Quality Deck Stain may bead water when initially applied but it is normal to stop doing this after a month or two.
Beading Water on Deck Stain
More information on Deck Stains Beading
- Are Deck Stains Sealers?
- More Pigment in Deck Stain Means Better UV Protection
- Thomason’s Waterseal Waterproofer Plus Clear Wood Protector Review
- Why stain a deck?
- Best Deck Sealers
Have a Deck Stain question? Ask in the comments below.
For more info, see our Deck Stain Facts section with over 150 simple Q&A articles that answer all the questions that you have regarding deck staining, cleaning, and prep.
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.
