This post was updated on January 18, 2023
Will a Deck Stain Freeze in Winter?
Yes. Does not matter if water or oil-based. If you leave your deck stain in a garage or shed where temps can fall below freezing, there is a very good chance your stain will be ruined. Signs that your deck stain has gone bad are excessive thickening, jelling/clumping of the deck stain, or skinning on the top portion.
When storing your stain, make sure to 100% close the lid or top so there is not any evaporation. Store the excess stain in a temperature-controlled room but away from any heat such as furnaces or water heaters.
More Info on Storing a Deck Stain
Have a Deck Stain question? Ask in the comments below.

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.