- Staining enhances the appearance of wood’s natural grain
- Deck stain helps the wood retain moisture which helps in preventing wood rot. This way, staining can be more beneficial than painting in rainy areas.
- Stained decks are less slippery than painted decks
- Stain is easier and quicker to apply than paint
- Staining is a relatively cheaper option.
Full Answer
Is it better to stain or paint a wood deck?
When selecting a stain, you have three options:
- Solid stain: More like a paint, its opaque nature allows solid stains to completely cover the wood’s natural graining
- Semi-transparent stain: With its slight hue, semi-transparent stain allows some of the wood’s graining to show through
- Clear stain: Completely transparent, it allows wood graining to shine through. ...
What is the best paint for exterior deck?
Top 7 Best Deck Paint Colors Reviews
- Defy Extreme Wood Stain – Best for Treated Wood. This is a water based stain that will allow the natural beauty of the wood to shine through. ...
- KILZ Over Armor Smooth Wood. If you have a concrete deck this paint substance is ideal for your needs. ...
- KILZ Epoxy Acrylic Interior/Exterior Garage Floor Paint. ...
What are the different colors of deck stain?
Types of Deck Stains
- Transparent Stains. A transparent or clear stain, or water sealer, is exactly what one would assume: a clear stain that allows that natural colors and grain of the untreated ...
- Semi-Transparent Stains. Semi-transparent stains contain a minimal amount of pigment and will give your deck a light tint of color without hiding the wood grain.
- Solid Stains. ...
What is the best deck stain color?
- Barn Red #SC-112 by Behr gives farmhouse flair to a wood deck. The bold red solid exterior wood stain is also self-priming.
- Redwood L832211 by Kilz is a semi-transparent deck stain with a burgundy tint.
- Navajo Red by Rust-Oleum RockSolid is a solid red deck stain with a clay-colored shade that adds southwestern style.
Is it better to paint or stain a wood deck?
Paint allows you more color options, as where stain is limited to shades of brown. Because paint fills gaps and cracks, it hides the flaws of a weathered or old deck much better than stain does. It's easier to clean a painted deck rather than a stained one.
Which lasts longer stain or paint on deck?
Better, Lasting Coverage While staining may take less time than painting, painting often does a better job of filling the cracks, covering imperfections, and provides longer lasting protection. Paint also is typically more rot resistance and does a better job of preventing mold and sun damage.
Why You Should Never paint a deck?
To get the most out of a wood deck it needs to be protected from the environment and harsh weather conditions. Harmful UV rays and moisture can lessen the longevity of a wood deck in no time.
How much does it cost to stain a 12x12 deck?
A 12x12 deck costs $226 to $582 to stain when paying someone, or $59 to $176 to stain it yourself. A gallon of stain costs $20 to $50, which covers 200 to 300 square feet. Get free estimates from deck staining companies near you or view our deck stain cost calculator below.
Can I paint a deck over stain?
A stained deck can be easily painted over or given a new shade of stain by dulling the old finish with sandpaper, wiping down the deck with de-glosser, and then priming and painting or topping with the new shade of stain.
How much does it cost to paint a 12x12 deck?
The cost to paint a deck ranges from $600 to $1,500 or about $2 to $5 per square foot.
Do I need to seal my deck after staining?
Most of the time, stains also contain a protective sealant. It's a good idea, though, to re-seal your deck (or check that it needs to be re-sealed) once a year. Water-based stains can adhere to water or oil-based coatings already present on the wooden surface. Water-based stains can be cleaned up with water.
How long does deck stain last?
three to five yearsThe 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.
Why paint a deck?
Painting Your Deck. There are plenty of reasons to paint your deck, but you should know that it masks the detailed elements of the wood that make it unique. It lasts longer and comes with many color options, but it ensconces what makes your deck special. Paint provides a uniform look, which appeals to many homeowners.
What is the purpose of staining a deck?
Staining allows you to highlight the beauty of your wooden deck. If your deck is made of beautiful wood, right stain and finish will enhance it. Unlike paint, which completely masks the wood’s beauty, a stain allows you to highlight its natural qualities. If your deck is made of cypress, redwood or cedar, and it’s in good shape, ...
How long does a deck stain last?
An older painted deck will eventually need a new paint job, or you might consider stripping and staining it. Stain on a deck will only last a few years. As a homeowner, you’ll have to decide how to keep your deck looking its best. Proper maintenance is an unavoidable cost that comes with enjoying a gorgeous deck.
Why are decks so popular?
Decks are rising in popularity because of what’s happening indoors in many American homes.
Does staining a deck last longer than painting?
Unfortunately, staining doesn’t last as long as a quality paint job. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of staining your deck, so you can decide if it’s right for you. The pros of staining your deck include: You choose how much of the wood’s color, grain and texture are visible.
Is it good to paint a deck?
Over time, the uniform paint will peel and crack, which looks rather unsightly, but it might be a good option if your deck is particularly old and weathered. Let’s take a closer look at all the details. The pros of painting your deck include:
Can I paint my deck to match my house?
You can easily match the deck to rest of your home’s exterior, or use your deck to complement the color of your house. Many homeowners choose to paint the exterior of their home while painting the deck, which provides an excellent opportunity to unify your exterior space.
How long does paint last on a deck?
But in a head-to-head of painting vs. staining the deck, paint generally comes out as the more durable and colorfast finish, lasting 10 years or longer before requiring re-application.
How much does it cost to paint a deck?
Stain is more budget-friendly. Stain runs between $20 and $35 per gallon, while exterior paint suitable for decking ranges from $30 to as much as $60 per gallon. Plus, if painting, you’ll have to factor in an extra $15 to $40 per gallon of wood preservative and $15 to $30 per gallon of primer.
What color is paint?
Paint affords more variety. Paint is available in a host of hues, from neutrals like chocolate brown or forest green to eye-popping royal blue or crimson for a more contemporary vibe. Because wood stain is designed to accentuate the native qualities of wood, it’s typically limited to clear varieties or shades of brown.
What is a wood stain?
Wood stain, transparent to semi-solid in opacity, partially fills the pores of wood, forming a thin film over the deck that lets both the natural grain pattern and superficial cracks in the wood show through—ideal if you like a natural look.
Is a transparent stain UV resistant?
Generally, the more pigmented the stain (i.e., the higher the opacity), the more resistant it is to moisture and UV damage. Transparent stains offer low moisture protection and virtually no UV protection, while solid stains offer high moisture and UV protection. Photo: istockphoto.com.
Can you stain a deck with a brush?
Then, stain can be directly applied by brush or roller in a single coat.
Why do you need to stain a deck?
In many cases, staining your deck is a great choice because you can protect the wood while avoiding common issues that can occur with paint. A deck stain product is applied to the surface of the wood, helping to protect and preserve your deck. If your deck is made of wood, then you will need to use a deck stain to refinish the surface, ...
What does it mean to paint a deck right now?
Future Renovations: Choosing paint right now means that you could be facing a lot of work in the future when the deck needs to be treated again. A lot more sanding and scraping is required for paint vs stain. If you decide to change to stain later, then you will need to put in the time and effort to remove the paint completely.
Why does paint peel?
These changes in the wood usually result in the paint peeling because cracks develop on the surface. On the other hand, stain allows ...
How long does treated lumber take to dry before painting?
If you want a deck with a painted finish, then treated lumber is often the best option. These decks need to age between six weeks and three months so the wood can dry completely before painting. When you are painting a wooden deck, it’s smart to choose paint that is formulated for floors.
Why is a deck important?
A good deck is essential for maintaining your lifestyle and spending quality time with your loved ones. When a deck is designed with the flow of your home, it creates an expanded living space where you can host meals and enjoy time in the fresh air.
Does deck stain hide texture?
Wood Texture: The thickness of deck paint can hide wood texture, which might be a good option if you want to hide imperfections because the deck is old and worn. Deck stain seeps into the wood grain to maintain the natural appearance. Quality of the Wood: If your deck is old and nearing the end of its life, then a good coat ...
Can you paint over stain on a deck?
The areas where the puddles form are often the points where the paint begins peeling first. If you prefer the appearance of deck paint over a stain, then be sure to choose a quality exterior paint product.
Stain versus paint: Should you paint or stain a deck
Comparing the benefits of painting vs. staining your deck can make it pretty challenging to decide between paint and deck stain. There’s no simple answer when deciding whether to paint vs stain your deck.
About Painting vs. Staining
Both paints and deck stains are available in oil or solvent and water-based varieties. As such, you can find an oil-based paint and a corresponding oil-based stain in the market if you want. Also, you can find a water-based acrylic latex paint the same way you can find a water-based stain for your project.
Introducing Deck Paint
One prominent feature that sets paint apart from stain is how it works by covering the substrate, completely masking its original color and surface appearance. For instance, if you use white paint on a wooden deck, the finished deck will lose its original color and become white.
Introducing Deck Stain
Whereas paint sits on the surface of the substrate, deck stain seeps into the grain to protect the wood, highlighting the appearance and beauty of the wood’s natural grain pattern. This way, staining is the ideal option if you wish to retain the wood’s natural appearance.
Painting Vs. Staining side by side
This section looks at the various features and aspects of painting versus staining your deck to draw out the better of the two options.
Which Wood Decks You can and Cannot Stain
Wooden decks generally respond differently to stains depending on the type of lumber it is made of. In any case, oil stains are a better choice for deck staining because they are easier to apply and maintain.
What to Expect When You Hire a Professional to Stain Your Deck?
An experienced contractor is likely to help you choose the best stain or paint option for your deck based on the material.
What is Staining?
Staining is a type of paint that allows you to add color or change the shade on your deck.
What is Painting?
Painting your deck involves applying a layer or multiple layers of sealant that will protect the wood from weather and moisture damage. Paints are available in oil-based, acrylic, latex or water-based formulas. All of these can be used on different types of wood, and each has its own advantages.
Factors to Consider Before Deciding What Method to Use
There are several factors that will help in your decision of whether or not to stain or paint your deck:
The Best Paint And Stain For Deck
1 Deck Wood Deck Paint and Sealer – Advanced Solid Color Deck Stain for Decks, Fences, Siding – 1 Gallon (Light Walnut)
FAQs on Is It Better to Stain or Paint a Deck?
It depends on the type of wood your deck is made from, and it’s best to hire a professional for advice.
Is It Better to Stain or Paint a Deck?: Conclusion
The truth is, neither staining nor painting should be considered better than the other. It all boils down to personal preference and what you want for your deck. If you still can’t decide on which method works best for you and your home, then try both options and see how they look in comparison to each other before making a final decision.
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 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.
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.
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.
How often should I recoat a deck?
It offers some deck sealer protection, but plan to recoat every 2 to 3 years. Semi-opaque: Also called “semi-solid,” this deck stain contains enough pigment to obscure most of the wood grain while imparting rich color. Users need to recoat every 3 to 4 years.
Is cedar good for decking?
Cedar: Also a softwood that’s naturally resistant to decay, rot, and insect damage, cedar is an optimal wood for decks, but it’s also pricey. When new and in good shape, cedar doesn’t require the application of a stain, which would alter its natural beauty.
