Best Deck Stain

Prepare Your Deck

Before applying stain to your deck, it's important to prep the area. Remove items like planters, grills, patio furniture and protect with drop cloths areas like sidewalks or steps that will not be stained. Check the surface of your deck for wear and repair things like:

• Cracked boards
• Surface wear
• Popped nails

Choosing the Best Deck Stain

When choosing a quality stain for your deck, the color your buy plays a factor in how long your deck will look the way you want it to. Color choices are numerous, so it's easy to find one that compliments your exterior décor. However, a stain with a deeper color will last longer and look fresher than if you pick a lighter color. With that in mind you may have to choose between aesthetics, durability or a combination of both.

When deciding on the best deck stain for your project, consider the following:

• Stains come in an assortment of opacities. Some are oil-based and others water-based.
• The more pigment added to your stain, the less you'll see your decking's natural wood.

Oil-Based Deck Stains

Advantages:

• Lets more of the natural wood show through
• Penetrates the surface better
• Provides a richer look

Disadvantages:

• Requires more deck maintenance and re-application every two to four years

Water-Based Deck Stains

Advantages:

• Solid color
• Lover volatile organic compounds
• Better for the environment
• More durable -- last seven to eight years
• Dries faster
• Easier to clean up

Disadvantages:

• Hide the natural wood look

Applying Stain

Once you've prepared your deck, be sure to test the stain you plan to use in an inconspicuous spot. Testing ahead of time will ensure that the final results are what you really want.

When you begin, apply stain to vertical sections of your deck like the rails and posts. This will eliminate the risk of dripping on areas you've already finished. When you're done, you'll be ready to proceed to the deck's surface.

To avoid lap-over marks, stain two to three boards at a time and don't stop in the middle of a board or you'll have lap marks that don't go away. It's the same with puddles. If you let stain stand in a puddle on the deck coverage will not be uniform. Applying stain with a brush is best, but if you roll it on or use a spray gun always back brush because it provides better penetration.

If you have a large area to cover, be sure to stir the stain often because it doesn't stay mixed. Also, apply at cooler times of the day. Direct sunlight can cause fast drying and what you want is even drying to make certain the stain penetrates properly.

Maintenance

Decks are often subjected to intense environmental conditions. Stained deck surfaces often need to be retreated every two to three years. If your deck is exposed to direct sunlight, cool damp shade or experiences heavy foot traffic be sure to inspect it each year. Taking care of your deck will add longevity to your finish.