Which deck stain lasts the longest?
Solid deck stain or Opaque lasts the longest on deck because it contains the highest percentage of pigment that sticks firmly and protects the wood. You only need to recoat or restain your deck every 4 – 6 years.
Can solid stain be used on decking?
Solid stain can provide your deck with a solid coating which can protect the wood from moisture damage from rain, snow, and other precipitation. Blocks UV rays. Using latex solid deck stain with UV-blocking pigments can protect your wood deck against inevitable sun-related fading. Can sometimes be applied over paint.
How long do wood stains last?
Regardless of their durability, solid stains should last at least 3 to 5 years. If you're looking for Water-based stains tend to be the most durable because they are absorbed into the wood better than solid stains.
How often should you stain your deck or fence?
Staining a deck or fence is a perfectly doable DIY project. That doesn't mean you want to do it more than necessary. If you want to avoid repeating the chore every year, you're going to want a long-lasting stain. Consumer Reports tested 28 solid, semi-transparent, and clear wood stains to find which ones last the longest.
How long does a deck stain last?
How long does it take for a deck stain to show wear?
Can you stain a deck over paint?
Is it bad to have a deck stain in the sun?
Do you need to reapply deck stain?
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Is solid stain good for deck?
Solid stain can provide your deck with a solid coating which can protect the wood from moisture damage from rain, snow, and other precipitation. Blocks UV rays. Using latex solid deck stain with UV-blocking pigments can protect your wood deck against inevitable sun-related fading.
What is the most durable solid deck stain?
This guide will explain how to choose the best solid deck stain and suggest some top products.BEST OVERALL: Valspar Tintable Solid Exterior Stain and Sealer.BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Behr Premium Solid Exterior Wood Stain and Sealer.UPGRADE PICK: Cabot Tintable Solid Exterior Stain and Sealer.More items...•
How long does Cabot solid stain last?
Finish durability depends upon weather, wear and other local conditions, but finish typically lasts 10–20 years on siding and fences. FROM PATENT INFRINGEMENT.
What lasts longer semi-transparent or solid stain?
Semi-solid stains are much like semi-transparent stains, except that they have a deeper color and show less of the natural wood grain. They provide longer protection and can also be tinted in nearly any color. Solid stains are nearly indistinguishable from paint.
Why does my deck stain peel every year?
Deck stains will generally peel for two basic reasons: over application and poor adhesion. This is simple — too much stain on the surface of the wood. With deck stains, specifically with semi-transparent finishes, more is not better. You only want to apply as much product as the wood can easily absorb.
Will solid stain cover old stain?
You can use solid stain over existing solid or semi-transparent stain, but semi-transparent stain over solid stain will look strange and won't last. It's designed to penetrate wood and won't adhere well to a solid coating.
Does Cabot solid stain peel?
To a lesser extent, other products like semi-transparent stains, Cabot Semi-Solid® Stains and Cabot Decking Stains can flake and peel from wood siding or deck structures if these products are over-applied.
How often should you stain your deck?
every 2-3 yearsAs a general rule, your deck should be stained every 2-3 years. This can change, however, if you are in an area of high-humidity or especially volatile weather. The signs to look for when determining if you need deck staining are: The stain color of the wood is wearing off.
Does solid stain cover like paint?
One of the benefits of using a solid color stain is that you often have as many options as you would with a traditional paint color. A solid stain can be used on new or previously painted wood since a solid color will cover the previous color completely.
Will solid stain fade over time?
It depends on the type. Those with more pigment last the longest: up to 7 years for a solid-color stain. Clear toners, which have the least amount of pigment, need to be reapplied annually.
Should I use solid color or semi-transparent on deck?
Transparency, or opacity, determines how much wood grain you want to see after your deck is stained. For newer wood, go with clear, transparent or semi-transparent stains — that way some grain still shows through. Semi-solid stains are a better choice for decks that have seen their share of cookouts.
Is solid stain slippery when wet?
Texture of the Wood: When solid stain or painted decks get wet, the surface can be slippery since there isn't much texture. On the other hand, a semi-transparent stain penetrates the wood, leaving the natural grain texture. So, semi-transparent stains are less slippery compared to other stain products.
What is the best solid deck stain on the market?
Our Picks Of The Top Deck StainsReady Seal 105 Exterior Deck Stain. – Best Overall. ... Penofin Deep Penetrating Deck Stain. – Runner Up. ... Storm System Penetrating Deck Stain. ... Cabot Wood Toned Deck Stain. ... DeckWise Ipe Oil Hardwood Deck Stain. ... Olympic Stain Maximum Waterproofing Deck Stain. ... SaverSystem Semi-Transparent Deck Stain.
Who makes the best deck solid stain?
1. Restore-A-Deck Solid Color Deck Stain Rating. Restore A Deck Solid Color Stain will be our go-to Solid Color Stain for 2022 due to its ease of use, 5 pre-mixed solid colors (the only solid stain on the market that comes pre-mixed), and the ability to prep and stain on the same day.
What is the best deck stain for pressure treated wood?
10 Best Stains for Pressure Treated WoodThompsons Waterseal (Solid) ... SEAL-ONCE Nano+Poly Ready Mix Penetrating Wood Sealer & Stain. ... 3. # ... Ready Seal Natural Cedar Exterior Stain and Sealer. ... Star Brite Premium Golden Teak Oil. ... Luminos Cold – Outdoor Wood Finish Stain Protector IR Reflective. ... TWP Cedartone VOC Stain.More items...•
What is the best brand of deck stain?
Find the Best Wood Deck Stain: Top-Rated Products…TWP 100 Pro Series Wood and Deck Stain…Restore-A-Deck Wood Stain Review.Armstrong Clark Wood Deck Stain Review 2022.TWP Semi-Solid Pro-Series Wood and Deck Stain Review.TWP 1500 Wood and Deck Stain Review 2022.Defy Extreme Stain Review 2022.More items...•
Which Deck Stain Lasts The Longest? (find out now)
Water-based stains tend to be the most durable because they are absorbed into the wood better than solid stains. On the other hand, they are less prone to peeling or cracking, and they don't cover as much surface area. Regardless of their durability, solid stains should last at least 3 to 5 years. If you're looking for
Best Stain for an Old Deck | Best Deck Stain Reviews Ratings
This post was updated on January 19, 2022 . What is Best Stain for Old Wood Deck. We appreciate you visiting Deckstainhelp.com as we continue to be your go-to source for the latest in deck restoration news and trending topics through 2022 If you are looking for honest deck stain ratings, look no further.
What is Shelf Life of Oil Based Deck Stain 4.8/5 (23)
I have a 5 gallon pail of Armstrong Clark semi trans natural oak that I purchased in July of 2019. As a newbie though I would need a lot more than I did — only used 1-2 gallons.
How long does a stain last?
Many outside factors affect how long a stain will last, including the angle of the surface, the shade of the stain, and what condition the surface is in. If you are applying a darker stain to a fresh surface, then you should expect to only have to re-stain a surface every four years on average. It also depends on the many choices you make ...
How long does semi transparent stain last?
Although semi-transparent stains won't last as long as the solid, they should still last around two to three years.
What is Weatherall stain?
Weatherall offers stains in a variety of shades, from solids to clear coats. If you are looking for a brand that carries the best products and has a wide range to select from, Weatherall will certainly have you covered all around.
Can you stain over an existing stain?
Existing Stain on Original Surface. If you have an existing surface that is already well covered by another stain, you can stain over it and expect the same results. You will need to make sure that the original surface is clean and that everything is intact.
Can you sand down old stain?
If the old stain is chipping, flaking, or peeling off, then you should sand it down before applying the new finish. If you are using an oil- or solvent-based stain and have recently applied it, you can add clear UV Guard from Weatherall to create a perfect finish.
How long will your can of deck stain last?
You might find that when you’ve finished that big staining project, you’re left with a bunch of deck stain leftover. Well, it would be a shame to throw it away, wouldn’t it? But if you intend to store it, then there are a few things you should know first. Your stains can stay usable if following these simple guidelines.
Things to note when putting your deck stains away
The ideal environment for storing your deck stain is a cool, dry room with a steady temperature. You should also ensure that the stain cans are not exposed to direct sunlight.
How long does a solid deck stain last?
They shield the deck from UV rays and prevent water penetration as well as mildew and mold growth. Solid deck stains can last up to 10 years after application.
What is a solid stain for a deck?
Solid deck stains cover the wood grain and texture with an opaque layer of color. To protect the deck but still see the wood’s character, a semisolid or semitransparent deck stain might be preferable. Solid stains are different from deck paint, too. Paints encapsulate the surface of the wood. Solid deck stains penetrate ...
What is SaverSystem's advanced solid color deck stain?
This product has a low-VOC formula but still provides maximum protection against fading, graying, and drying caused by the sun’s rays. It also protects against water penetration.
What is Cabot's stain and sealer?
Cabot’s Tintable Solid Exterior Stain and Sealer features a scuff-resistant formula that holds up to heavy foot traffic longer than many of its competitors, so it’s a good choice for those who spend a lot of time on the deck. This stain and sealer combo can be tinted with color pigments to get just the right color, and the acrylic-based formula can be applied with a brush, roller, or paint sprayer.
How many square feet does a gallon of Behr stain cover?
Behr’s Premium Solid Exterior Wood Stain and Sealer might be the product to go for to stretch a budget. One gallon can cover up to 400 square feet with one coat, providing more coverage than many competitors. It’s self-priming, so no need to buy a separate can of primer, and comes in several colors.
What is Valspar stain?
This stain is suitable for use on decks as well as fences, siding, and outdoor furniture. It repels water and protects against mold and mildew. Its UV-defense formula prevents fading and increases the stain’s longevity. It goes on with a roller, brush, or sprayer, and it’s rain-ready in just four hours.
What color is used for pressure treated pine?
Red hues from redwood and cedar will shine through the stain, while the yellows from pressure-treated pine boards will brighten the stain. That’s not the case with solid deck stains. The species and color of the wood will have no bearing on the end result.
What is deck stain?
Deck stain is a practical way to preserve your wooden deck and protect it from the elements. Good stains defend your deck from moisture, UV rays, and other aspects of Mother Nature.
Which stain lasts longer, oil or water?
As a general rule, oil-based stains last longer than water-based stains, and more pigmentation leads to more longevity. However, the person on your block with the longest lasting stain is likely the one who bought wisely, prepared his wood diligently, and cared for his stain most attentively.
What is the most natural wood stain?
Transparent stains allow nearly all the wood’s natural appearance to remain visible. While it is the most natural wood appearance, it has the least pigmentation and potentially the least longevity.
How does a stain's transparency work?
A stain’s transparency is based on the amount of pigmentation it contains . As a general rule, the darker the stain the longer it will last.
Which stain is the most resistant to UV light?
However, opaque stain does offer the most resistant UV protection, and for those who do not like the natural wood look, you can have fun choosing colors much like paint.
Why are water based stains better than other stains?
The advantage of water-based stains is that they are easier to clean after the job, resistant to mold and mildew, and less hassle against environmental regulations.
Why do you prep wood for staining?
Prepping your wood makes it more porous and ready to receive the stain. The stain can then penetrate the wood more deeply.
How long do wood stain cans last?
According to Rockler, manufacturers of wood stains that are oil, water or solvent based say the stains have a general shelf life of three years.
How long does it take for wood stain to dry?
Lacquer wood stains should dry in under an hour, water-based wood stains should dry in six hours or less, and oil wood stains should dry overnight. If your wood stain still isn’t dry within those time frames, it’s probably time to get a new can.
How long does a lacquer stain last?
Three years is a good baseline if you’re looking for one, but the truth is, with proper care and storage, wood stain can last much longer. Many lacquer stains have been known to last for decades (yes, you read that right!).
What are the different types of wood stains?
They include oil stains, varnish stains, water-based stains, gel stains, and lacquer stains among a few others. Let’s take a brief look at them.
How to test if wood stains are okay?
But what if the contents look okay? Time to do a test! Take some of your wood stains and place it on a piece of plastic or glass. Tip your plastic or glass to a 45 degree (or more) angle and observe how fast it dries.
How to tell if wood stain is ready to be thrown out?
There are some ways to tell if it’s time to finally let your wood stain go and toss it out, rather than preserving it. First, start with a visual inspection. If you open up your can of wood stain and its contents look separated, stringy, rubbery, or thick, it may be time to throw it out. Additionally, if your wood stain looks moldy or has a skunk-like odor, that’a a good indicator it’s time to toss it.
What is the most common type of wood stain?
Oil stains are the most widely available and common type of wood stain. Oil stains are what most people picture when they think of wood stains. Some oil stains only contain pigment, where other oil stains only contain dye, or contain pigment and dye. This type of stain is versatile.
When Should You Solid Stain Your Deck?
Solid stain can last up to 10 years in protected areas. In wet, sun-drenched, and heavy foot traffic areas, your solid stained deck will need a recoat every year.
How often should I re-stain a deck?
Keep in mind that professional painters should be called on to re-stain your deck floor every 1 to 3 years, and railings and vertical surfaces every 8 years to ensure the wood is properly protected from the elements and general wear and tear. Horizontal surfaces take much more weathering than vertical surfaces, so the floor will fade faster than hand rails.
How many shades of stain are there for a deck?
Transparent deck stains are limited to around 60 shades, but solid deck stains will offer over 3,000 choices. Choose the right stain for optimal protection. Before deciding on a paint stain, keep in mind that the more pigmented or opaque the stain, the more resistant it will be to seasonal weather changes and moisture.
What is solid stain?
Moisture-resistant. Solid stain can provide your deck with a solid coating which can protect the wood from moisture damage from rain, snow, and other precipitation. Blocks UV rays.
What are the advantages of solid stain?
Wide variety of stain color options. One of the many advantages of solid stain is that it gives homeowners a plethora of color options to choose from. This can be helpful if you want your deck to pop with color, or simply desire to give your deck a more contemporary look.
Is it better to stain a deck or stain it?
Economical to maintain. If you’re looking for an economical finishing option, transparent staining your deck can be an ideal solution. Stains soak into wood rather than forming a layer of film on top of wood. This can be helpful if you desire a deck surface that resists cracking, peeling, and blistering from foot traffic and general wear.
Does a stain protect against UV rays?
UV protection. The darker the stain you use, the more it can help your wood deck resist fading from UV rays. All transparent stains and sealers can effectively protect your deck from sun damage, but a solid stain won’t have to be reapplied as often. Moisture-resistant.
How long does a deck stain last?
The best stains should last three to five years on a deck, and even longer if applied to siding or fences, which don't get as much abuse. "The sun and water beat down on a deck, snow can pile up, and even dirt and mildew spores can settle on the flat surface," says Rico de Paz, Consumer Reports' wood stain tester. "All those issues are minimized on a vertical surface."
How long does a semi transparent stain last?
But even the best semi-transparent stains in our tests aren't as tough as the top solid stains, and our data suggest that this type of stain will probably last only two to three years on a deck. The 11 stains in this category also vary widely in performance, garnering Overall Scores of 12 to 65.
Where do CR test engineers stain?
To test wood stains, CR's test engineers apply two coats of stain to pine boards, then place them on the roof of our headquarters in Yonkers, N.Y. They face the boards south and angled down, like a roof, to intensify the effects of the sun and weather for up to three years.
Is Olympic Waterguard a good stain?
As a category, transparent wood stains, or clear sealers, don't fare well in our tests. The Olympic WaterGuard for Wood is the worst of the bunch, earning the lowest Overall Score in CR's stain tests—a 5 out of 100. It also earns a Poor for its appearance after one year in our simulated weathering test for decks, meaning this stain didn't take to the wood at all.
How long does a deck stain last?
While your deck stain will only last a few years with its full protection, you can apply another coat to help prolong the life of it. However, after approximately four years you will want to completely remove the old stain and reapply two fresh coats of stain over your deck.
How long does it take for a deck stain to show wear?
General use of your deck or patio that has had a fresh coat of deck stain on it will show signs of wear after only a few months. This is because of the small pieces of dirt and sand that are on the bottom of people's shoes.
Can you stain a deck over paint?
Many people want to show off the wood grain of their newly built deck and will choose deck stain over paint to do just that. Paint, while it will protect the wood, is just a covering. Deck stain actually penetrates into the wood itself to form a seal against water, snow, ice, and the freezing and thawing that occurs with the seasons.
Is it bad to have a deck stain in the sun?
This is going to depend significantly on some different factors and may vary a little. Direct sunlight is one of the worse things that deck stain has to deal with. The properties of the sunlight can dry out the stain and cause it to weather much faster.
Do you need to reapply deck stain?
Needs to Be Reapplied. Much like anything else that sits outside in the weather elements, you will need to reapply deck stain from time to time. After staying out in the different weather conditions throughout the years, the stain will begin to wear out and leave some of the wood exposed. Of course, there are times when it is just the color ...
Estimated Time Frame
Existing Stain on Original Surface
- If you have an existing surface that is already well covered by another stain, you can stain over it and expect the same results. You will need to make sure that the original surface is clean and that everything is intact. If the old stain is chipping, flaking, or peeling off, then you should sand it down before applying the new finish. If you are using an oil- or solvent-based stain and have recently a…
Solid, Semi-Transparent, Or Clear
- Using a solid stain will cover the wood grain, just like paint would. These stains are the most weather-resistant and will last the longest. Semi-transparent stains have a tint like sap from a tree, which means they allow some of the wood's natural color to show through the shade of the stain. Although semi-transparent stains won't last as long as the solid, they should still last around tw…
Methods of Applying That Last
- The best and fastest method for applying stain will either be by brush or sprayer. Sprayers come in two forms: hand-pump and airless. It's best to use one with a tip from .013 to .019 to apply the finish. Once applied, you should use a brush to back-brush the stain into the grain immediately, which is much easier to do with two people. Keep your brushes as clean as possible during this …