Don’t Paint Your Deck—Stain It Instead

As a professional, I often encounter customers who want to repaint their decks, but this typically involves significant costs, primarily due to the extensive repairs required. Repainting a deck means scraping away loose paint, priming bare surfaces, filling and sanding uneven spots, and then repainting. Unfortunately, even after all this effort, the paint job may only last a year or two before the process needs to be repeated.

It's important to note that most decks are made from pressure-treated wood, which allows stains to adhere better than paint. While paint might last longer on an untreated surface, it often becomes slippery and, if moisture gets trapped behind it, can lead to rot or bubbling as the moisture tries to escape.

In contrast, stain allows the wood to breathe, expanding and contracting with changing weather conditions, and creates a non-slippery surface. Although stain may not last as long as paint, reapplying stain is much more affordable and less labor-intensive than repainting.

For those looking for the appearance of a painted deck with the benefits of stain, consider using a solid stain. This option provides a painted look while still allowing the wood to breathe. If you want to showcase more of the wood grain while offering protection, a semi-transparent stain is a great choice. For maximum emphasis on the natural beauty of the wood, opt for a clear stain, which offers subtle protection while highlighting the wood's grain.

In short, staining your deck not only preserves its beauty but also saves you time and money in the long run.