There are few pleasures in life that are greater than sitting outside a well-maintained wooden deck on a spring afternoon. There comes a time, though, that this ever-providing deck needs a bit of maintenance. Doing so can protect it from moisture and other weather-related damage and ensure that you can enjoy that deck for as long as you want. 

But which materials are best for this maintenance? Which one will look the best? How can you achieve the colour you want? Deck-owners have debated whether paint or stain is better for wooden decks for years. Our experts take on the question in this article and discuss the pros and cons of both. We’ll also provide you with the next steps to bring your deck up to date. Let’s dive right in!

Staining Decks

Most homeowners choose stain because of the “natural” look it brings to a deck. There are multiple opacities in which stains are offered, varying all the way from transparent to semi-solid. The colour is ultimately, however, affected by the underlying wood. Because of this, staining weathered or previously painted or stained decks require significant preparation, including stripping, neutralizing, and sanding.

In fact, converting from a paint to a stain––or even re-staining with a different color––requires an effort-intensive process.  First, you have to completely strip the old paint and primer with either a commercial paint stripper or sanding. Then, you need to clean it with a deck cleaner and sand any imperfections. Only after all of this can you apply the new stain. 

Even after this intensive process, the stain won’t last more than a few years. You’ll be out re-staining your deck every other year on average. Some top-quality woods hold a stain even worse than that.  

Painting Decks

If you’re looking for something that will last longer and is easier to maintain, you’ll most likely want to paint your deck. A good paint job completed by professionals can last for 10 years before needing refinishing! Additionally, maintenance is much easier. Since the paint dries to the slick surface rather than a stain’s matte finish, sweeping away dust, dirt, and debris is a cinch!  

Another great aspect of painting your deck is the colour options that are available. You can easily match the exterior of your home and make a striking impression on passerby’s. This paint can also cover up any flaws on your deck, which we all have. Paint can make your old, worn-down desk look as good as new. 

Paint Your Deck with CertaPro Painters

If you’re looking to get started on your deck painting project, contact CertaPro Painters. We are local, professional painters that can transform your deck into something you’re proud of. If you have any hesitations, feel free to check out our great customer reviews, our previous projects, and get to know our team. To get started, you can fill out the online form for a free, no-obligation estimate or call us at 905-979-4657.