Deck Stain Comparison

Comparing the Differences in a Deck Stain

To protect a wood deck from sun fading and water damage, a quality deck stain is highly preferred. The durability, longevity, and appearance are normally the biggest factors in comparing deck stains. One factor may be more important to a deck owner than another but a thorough deck stain comparison may be able to reveal a deck stain with all these attributes.

There are so many different brands of deck stains as well as different types. First you have the choice of clear, transparent, semi-transparent, semi-solid, solid or opaque. Then you have the choice between water based, oil based, and even hybrids of both. Some stains are acrylic based and others are enhanced with silicone. Comparing deck stains can certainly be overwhelming. Start by eliminating the deck stains you do not want to help narrow your options.

According to most deck restoration professionals, you want to stay away from solid deck stains and paints especially on the horizontal surfaces like a deck floor. These types of stains may hold up well on vertical surfaces but on horizontals they are prone to cracking and peeling. They are also extremely hard to maintain as multiple coats begin to buildup peeling, flaking, and mildew become common. Solid stains are tough to remove so switching to a semi-transparent look from a solid color can be nearly impossible.

Another option in a deck stain comparison is the deep penetrating stains. These are commonly the transparent or semi-transparent deck stains. They come in a wide range of tones but still allow the wood grain to show through. They do not form a film on the surface like the solid stains but rather penetrate the wood pores providing excellent protection. They are not prone to peeling and are much easier to maintain.

Most oil based deck stains will penetrate better than water based stains, though some water based stains such as Defy Stains do compare. Oil based stains are normally easier to apply and are more natural looking but can be more susceptible to mildew. Water based stains have less odor and cure faster than oil based stains but are prone to peeling. Water based deck stains have become more popular in recent years due to tough VOC laws regulating oil based stains.

Where you buy a deck stain is also a key factor. Many of the big box stores sell deck stains. The downside to this is they are selling a cheaper version of deck stain to meet price requirements. You are actually buying a watered down version of a stain you might know and trust. When comparing wood deck stains always compare brands from a reputable paint store or online stain dealer.

Use these guidelines when doing a deck stain comparison to reveal the best deck stain for your particular situation.

Scott Paul Wood, Deck, Paver Concrete Sealing Pro Owner

Scott only carries wood deck stains, wood prep, concrete sealing, and restoration products that perform best based on his experience using the products and his 30+ years of helping others. Scott has been approached about selling numerous restoration products through the years but selects only the products he has used and trusts to perform.

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