Deck Staining Service: Seal, Stain or Paint

Before the weather begins to turn, it’s time to protect your wooden decks and porches. With this comes the consideration: do I seal, stain or paint? The outcome you’re looking for and overall look will determine the answer. Our professional crews for deck staining services are here to answer.

Before we break it down, it’s important to know that all three protect your deck. This will help prolong the life of the current wood and save money in replacement pieces. No matter what you choose, test the color on a hidden piece of deck that is out of sight. Always follow all manufacturer’s directions for the product you choose.

Stain

Stains are best used for a more natural look that protects the wood. Stains allow the color of the wood to be more vivid and lets the natural beauty of wood grain show through. Maintenance is required every so often to extend the life of the deck. Determining the length you can go between treatments will depend on the wear and tear, weather and conditions the deck must withstand. A mid-grade stain and moderate use deck lasts several years, under normal circumstances.

Stains work because they absorb into the wood and enhancing the color. The stain chosen will need to be committed to for the lifetime of the deck. Because the color soaks in, it’s not easy to change a stain color season after season. Removing stain is not possible.

Paint

Paint is a very high quality coating that covers the wood with a protective layer. Because it sits on top of the wood and is opaque, it can cover unsightly imperfections in the wood. Painted decks do tend to show scuffs and chips more quickly than a stain because it is adhered to the wood, not in it.

With paint, you’ll have so many more color options. The natural colors are great or you can choose to match your housing color scheme. Paint can be sanded off and the color changed completely if you decide to in the next application.

Seal

Sealants are highlights for wood. It’s a clear coating that sits on top of the wood, sealing out moisture and stains. If you are pleased with the color of your deck as it is, this is a good option to protect it while keeping the natural feel. Because this coating is clear, it doesn’t show wear and tear as quickly as the other options.

Water vs. Oil

It’s important to choose water vs. oil stains at the beginning of this process and stick with it. They cannot be used with each other. Staining with an oil option then trying to use water you will find that the new stain just beads and sits on top of the old. Commit to one and use it through the lifetime of the deck.

Testing

Is your deck due for a new coating? There’s an easy water test you can perform. Sprinkle water drops on the deck. If they bead up, wait a few days and try again. Should it now absorbs, it’s time to paint, stain or seal.

If you’re not comfortable with testing on your own, get a free in home evaluation and estimate by getting in touch with us.