9 Best Deck Stain and Sealer- Reviews & Buyer’s Guide
- 1. Ready Seal Natural Cedar Exterior Wood Stain and Sealer — Best Overall Natural Finish ...
- 2. Thompsons WaterSeal Advanced Natural Wood Protector — Best Choice For UV Resistance ...
- 3. Defy Extreme Wood Stain Light Walnut — The Easy to Apply Sealing Formula ...
- 4. Cabot Australian Timber Oil Stain — Great for Exotic Wood Decks/Hot Weather ...
- Ready 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.
What is the best quality deck stain?
What is the best quality deck stain?
- Ready 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.
What is the highest rated deck stain?
Best Oil-Based Deck Stain. Using the purest linseed and tung oils available, the Cabot Australian Timber Oil Stain gives superior penetration into wood surfaces. This stain features a durable alkyd resin formula that produces lasting durability on heavy-traffic areas, while remaining flexible so it doesn’t flake or peel over time.
What is the longest lasting deck stain?
- BEST OVERALL: Cabot Australian Timber Oil
- BEST BUDGET: KILZ L832111 Exterior Waterproofing Wood Stain
- BEST FOR OLD DECKS: SaverSystems #1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Stain
- BEST FOR NEW DECKS: Ready Seal 512 Exterior Stain and Sealer
- PRESSURE-TREATED WOOD PICK: DEFY Extreme Semi-Transparent Exterior Wood Stain
When to stain a new deck?
Video Transcription:
- PREP - Wait 4-8 weeks after new deck is built. Sweep away any leaves or other debris.
- WATER DROP TEST - Deck is ready when droplets are absorbed.
- STAIN - Apply even coat with wood grain. Work in with brush. Wait 4 hours between coats. Wait 24-48 hours before enjoying. ...
What is the longest lasting stain for a deck?
oil-based deckIn general, an oil-based deck stain will last the longest, but it also depends on the type of wood, the weather conditions, and how long the deck has gone unprotected before staining.
What kind of stain is best for a deck?
Here are the best deck stains to make your backyard a more beautiful space.Best Overall: Benjamin Moore Arborcoat Exterior Stain.Best Budget: Preserva Wood Oil-Based Clear Penetrating Exterior Stain and Sealer.Best Solid: Behr Solid Color Waterproofing Exterior Wood Stain and Sealer.More items...•
What's the best deck stain for pressure treated wood?
Best Stain for Pressure Treated WoodDEFY Extreme Wood Stain (semi-transparent)#1 Deck Solid Color Wood Deck Stain – (solid/opaque)TWP Stain (semi-transparent)
Is water based or oil-based stain better for decks?
Water-based stains add more benefits compared to oil-based deck stains. These are expensive but eco-friendly and easy to apply with less drying time.
Is it better to spray or roll deck stain?
In fact, starting your staining process via spraying is often the way to go, as long as you implement the proper technique. Spraying your waterproof deck stain from the get-go allows you to cover even more area than rolling does and also reach those tighter spaces.
Is Cabot or Behr deck stain better?
Overall, Cabot Deck Correct gets better coverage for the price than Behr does. A gallon of Cabot Deck 17400 series covered 250 to 350 square feet of smooth deck surfaces. You can only get this coverage with a single coat. A double coat will cover 75 to 100 square feet of deck wood.
Is oil or water based stain better for pressure treated wood?
Wood types such as pressure treated pine responds well to water-based deck stains. If you're just selling your house and just need to stain your deck fast, or you don't mind restaining your deck every year, then a cheaper, oil based stain may be your best bet. It's pretty straight forward.
Do you need to clean your deck before staining?
Before you apply stain, make sure the surface is clean (no dust, dirt, wood fibers or grease), dry and free from mildew. When a surface is not clean, stains and other finishes have trouble sticking and may end up peeling.
Why does stain peel off my deck?
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.
Can I apply deck stain over old stain?
Generally speaking, it's a good idea to completely remove all traces of the previous coat of deck stain before applying a new one. The reasons for this may be fairly obvious -- a previous coat of stain might be peeling away from the surface in several areas.
How long does oil stain last on a deck?
three to five yearsOn average, decks need to be stained again every other year. A quality, professional paint job will last longer than a quality, professional deck staining. However, an oil-based semitransparent stain can last for three to five years.
How can I make my deck stain last longer?
The easiest and most effective way to prevent your deck stain from peeling is to go over your deck with a proper sealant. Deck sealers essentially waterproof your deck, keeping moisture from contacting the surface directly.
Do I need to power wash my deck before staining?
Your deck may not have grime on it, but the color of the stain may wear away. While you can apply a new layer of the stain without power washing, a pressure wash can help prepare the wood to absorb the stain. It will last longer afterward, and you won't have to worry about dirt getting stuck under the stain.
Why does stain peel off my deck?
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.
What is the best color for decks?
Plan On Painting Your Deck? The 5 Best Deck ColorsSlate Grey. If you are after a contemporary feel for your new deck area, then slate grey is one of the best deck paint colors to use. ... Black. If you wish to go even bolder than slate grey, black is another attractive option to consider. ... Dark Blue. ... Chocolate Brown. ... Greige.
How many coats of deck stain should I use?
two coatsWe always recommend two coats of stain for any wood project, but you should only apply as much stain as the wood can absorb. Extremely dense hardwoods may only be able to absorb one coat of wood stain. The general rule of thumb is to apply only as much as the wood can absorb.
What is the best stain for a deck?
Deck stain is available in four opacities: Toner: This stain is closest to a clear sealer. It contains just a hint of color and imparts only a slight hue to the wood that won’t change the deck’s overall look. Toner requires reapplication every year for the best protection.
What to consider when choosing a deck stain?
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Deck Stain. Choosing a deck stain is about more than just picking a color and brushing the product on the decking; the process requires considering the type and age of the deck wood and whether you’ve previously stained or painted it.
What is a Kilz stain?
KILZ Exterior Waterproofing Wood Stain imparts a semi-transparent layer of color and protection to new and older wood decks that still allows the wood grain to show. Best of all, it’s available at an affordable price point in several popular hues.
How long does it take to apply ready seal to a deck?
Ready Seal is well suited for applying to new treated-wood decks, but users should wait 6 months after the deck’s construction to allow treatment chemicals to evaporate. One gallon covers up to 175 square feet, and the product comes in a 5-gallon can.
What is Cabot Australian Timber Oil?
Defend the deck from UV rays, water, and mildew while bringing out the natural beauty of its wood grain with Cabot Australian Timber Oil. This semi-transparent, oil-based stain is available in multiple colors to complement a variety of wood decks. The stain formulation contains linseed and tung oil that ensures uniform penetration and increases the wood’s ability to resist moisture damage; rain beads up and runs off rather than soaking into the wood.
How long does it take for a gallon of stain to dry?
For best results, apply only to clean, dry decking when the outdoor temperature is over 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Depending on humidity, dry time is approximately 24 hours. The stain comes in several size options, with 1 gallon covering about 200 to 400 square feet, depending on the thickness of the application.
What kind of wood is used for decking?
Exterior deck construction utilizes four main types of wood: Redwood: Perhaps the top wood species for high-end decks, redwood naturally resists insects, moisture damage, and decay, but it comes at a high cost. Considered a softwood, redwood contains natural oils and tannins that give it a warm reddish hue.
Our favorite deck stain is ArborCoat by Benjamin Moore
We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
Best Overall: Benjamin Moore Arborcoat Exterior Stain
Why You Should Get It: There's a wide selection of opacities and colors, so you'll be able to find the exact look you want for your deck.
Best Solid: Behr Solid Color Waterproofing Exterior Wood Stain and Sealer
Why You Should Get It: If you have an older wood deck, Behr's solid stain can hide imperfections and make it look like new. It's also good for composite decks.
Best Semi-Solid: Olympic Elite Semi-Solid Stain and Sealant in One
Why You Should Get It: All-in-one products like this one are like striking gold for the DIY homeowner because they cut down on the work and the drying time.
Best Semi-Transparent: Valspar One-Coat Semi-Transparent Stain and Sealer
Why You Should Get It: One coat provides a protective shield that still allows you to enjoy the natural wood grain of your deck.
Best Oil-Based: Ready Seal Exterior Wood Stain
Why You Should Get It: You can apply this stain to your deck no matter what type of wood it's made from.
Best Water-Based: Defy Extreme Semi-Transparent Exterior Wood Stain
Why You Should Get It: The water-based formula makes it environmentally friendly.
What is the best stain for a deck?
When it comes to the best decking stains, these are the main issues that you need to be concerned with: 1 Water-based stains are the way to go, ditch the oils – easier to clean up, more green-friendly 2 Synthetic resins, not natural resins – no mold, and no toxic chemicals 3 Semi-transparent deck stains rather than clear or solid color deck stains – easier to maintain
Why is my deck stain black?
The first problem is that they are made of natural resins, which is basically food for algae and mold. Ever notice the large black regions of mold growing on your deck? You guessed it, the mold is eating your stain right off your deck. And not only that, once it starts, it becomes a breeding ground for more mold and algae, and it begins to grow, eventually taking over your whole deck!
How long does it take for a clear stain to go away?
Frequently, the clear stains vanish within a few short months of applying them. On top of that, most clear deck stains aren’t totally clear.
Can you use algaecide in synthetic sealer?
Because synthetic resin sealers aren’t going to be food for algae, it’s not necessary to add a bunch of mildewcides and algaecides to the stains, making them much more family-friendly and environmentally friendly.
Can water based stain be used on decks?
Deck owners simply had to deal with the unsightly algae growth, environmental damage, and safety issues. There have recently been vast improvements in water-borne technologies that have allowed water-based stains to penetrate like an oil stain.
Which states have banned oil based stains?
So far, the following states have outlawed almost all oil-based stains: California, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Washington DC, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Virginia.
Can you use paint stripper to remove a stain?
You end up with a mess. Simply applying a stain stripper is normally not enough to remove these stains. Frequently, the only option becomes using paint stripper, a highly dangerous and toxic substance that can cause burns and kill your surrounding vegetation upon contact.
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 ...
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 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 the best stain for a deck?from bobvila.com
Deck stain is available in four opacities: Toner: This stain is closest to a clear sealer. It contains just a hint of color and imparts only a slight hue to the wood that won’t change the deck’s overall look. Toner requires reapplication every year for the best protection.
Why paint a deck that is cracked?from poolcareguy.com
This is definitely our top pick for a deck that’s cracked and weathered because its textured coating fills in the cracks and gaps. It’s a great paint to hide little imperfections that you don’t want to spend the time or money repairing.
What is the best way to repair a deck?from poolcareguy.com
Paint is actually the best remedy for a less-than-perfect deck surface. This is because it helps fill in cracks and imperfections in a way that stain does not.
How long does it take for a stain to dry before applying acrylic sealer?from directcolors.com
Jerry allowed the stain to dry for 8 hours before proceeding to apply the first coat of a solvent-based acrylic sealer.
Why paint a pool deck?from poolcareguy.com
Possibly one of the most important reasons to paint your deck is for safety. Pool deck coatings are made to be slip-resistant so there’s less chance for accidents.
How much does it cost to paint a deck?from poolcareguy.com
According to Home Depot, the average is about $2-$5 per sq ft or $300-$1,200 per project.
What is the best thing about painting a deck?from poolcareguy.com
One of the best things about painting your deck is that it covers flaws and damage, so take that into consideration when choosing your product.
How long does cedar deck stain last?
It is the overall best deck stain and sealer, especially if you are working with cedar. An adequately maintained cedar deck can last you for several decades.
What is Cabot Australian Timber Oil Stain?
Cabot Australian Timber Oil Stain has high penetration deep into the wood pores to nourish and replenish the timber and protect it at the same time. The oil emphasizes the natural wood colors by enhancing a deeper color tone upon its application.
What do you need for a homestead?
All these wooden structures demand that you look after them to last and serve you longer. You need the best deck stain and sealer, for instance, to protect your structures from mildew, the UV rays, and rain.
How long does a deck sealer last?
It gives your product a new and replenished look. It is a no-drip formulation that does not overlap, chip, or crack. This formula is capable of lasting up to 2 years once you apply it to your decks.
Why seal a deck?
Deck sealing is critical if you are looking to prevent instances of wood rot and warping. Sealing and staining play a role in helping keep your deck in tip-top condition for many years, mainly if you use Defy Extreme Wood Stain.
What surfaces can you use a sandpaper on?
You can use it on different wood surfaces like decks, furniture, and fencing.
Is a stain a sealer?
It’s both a stain and a sealer.
What is the purpose of a deck stain?
One of the primary purposes of a stain is to protect your deck . Hence, you should look for one that will reflect UV rays as well as prevent water from penetrating the surface.
Which is better, water based or water based stain?
If we are to say which one would be better in a general sense, then we would pick water-based stains.
How long does it take for a stain to reach its true color?
Furthermore, it doesn't require a primer either. The stain will automatically reach its true color within 14 days, without you doing anything.
How to tell if a stain is durable?
The easiest way to find out whether or not a stain is durable, you should check if it wears out or fades quickly. You should also focus on how often it needs to be re-applied.
What is the benefit of using a stain on cedar?
The most significant benefit of this stain is that it will prevent color fading and prevent greying. You will be able to use it on various types of woods. For instance, it will provide the same benefits on cedar, fir, redwood, pressure-treated pine and will protect them from damage.
Is it safe to use a stain on a deck?
If you are afraid of the stain penetrating the deck quite deeply, then you have got nothing to worry about with this. That is because, since this item is heavy-bodied, it will not penetrate the material as much as its liquid oil-base counterparts would. Hence, it is safe to use.
Is wood stain durable?
Moreover, the product has been made using high-quality resins, which resists darkening and fading for a long time. This aspect makes the wood stain very durable, which reduces the hassle of applying the product on the surfaces from time to time. As a result, your costs will be saved as well.
1. INSL-X SU030809A-01 Sure Step Acrylic Anti-Slip Coating Paint
The INSL-X SU030809A-01 has a durable, skid-resistant finish that is anti-slip and versatile for interior or exterior applications.
2. Rust-Oleum 206999 Marine Topside Paint
Rust-Oleum has been the go-to brand of veterans and beginners alike when it comes to paint. This paint, in particular, is weather resistant, and it is oil-based, so it allows flexible application and excellent leveling.
3. FIXALL Skid Grip Anti-Slip Acrylic Paint
Skid Grip adds better character to your old deck, asphalt, and other surfaces. Its pure acrylic resin formula enhances its quality by reducing peeling or flaking. It also reduces oxidation, allowing your deck to retain its color for years.
5. Thompsons Waterseal TH.043821-16
Thompsons WaterSeal has been one of the top options for best deck paint brands since the early 1920s. Its reputation for producing water-resistant pigments is one of its main selling points.
6. Olympic Elite Advanced Solid Color Stain and Sealant in One
The Olympic Elite has pigmented consistency and accurate coverage. It is a perfect combination of stain and sealer.
7. KILZ Low-Lustre Enamel Porch & Patio Latex Floor Paint
The KILZ enamel floor paint is built to endure scuffing, fading, cracking, and peeling under harsh conditions. If you want undoubtedly durable deck paint, then KILZ Latex paint is sure to deliver.
Wood Type
It is important to consider the wood your deck is made from, as hardwood and softwood varieties have different requirements for deck paints. Softwoods like pine are easy to stain and paint with acrylic or oil-based paint, while tropical hardwoods like ipe require oil-based deck stains instead.
