I know choosing between deck stain and deck sealer can be confusing. Here’s the quick answer: deck sealers protect your wood from water but don’t protect against the sun, and they keep the natural look of the wood. Deck stains, on the other hand, protect from both water and the sun, plus they add color. If you want to know which is best for your deck and how to use them, keep reading below! I’ll go into more detail about what each one does and how they work, and I’ll share tips for using them so you can make the best choice for your deck!
What is a Deck Sealer?
Okay, let’s start with deck sealer. Imagine you have a clear raincoat. That’s kind of what a deck sealer is like! It’s usually a see-through liquid that you put on top of your deck. It’s designed to sit on the surface of the wood, forming a protective layer.
- Its main job is to keep water out. Think of it like a shield that stops rain and other moisture from soaking into the wood. This helps prevent yucky stuff like mold and wood rot.
- However, sealers don’t do much to protect against the sun. The sun’s UV rays can cause your deck to fade, turn gray, and even crack. Clear sealers, especially, offer very little of this protection.
- Because of this, you’ll need to reapply sealer often, usually every year or two, to keep your deck protected.
- There are different kinds of sealers. Some are oil-based, which means they soak into the wood a bit. Others are water-based, creating a barrier on top. And there are also resin-based sealers that stick to the wood’s surface.
- Sealers are great if you want to keep the natural look of your wood deck because they don’t change its color; they simply enhance it.
What is Deck Stain?
Now, let’s talk about deck stain. Deck stain is a bit different. It’s more like a tinted sunscreen for your deck! It not only protects but also adds color to the wood.
- Stains contain pigments that change the color of the wood. They sink into the wood rather than just sitting on top.
- Like sealers, stain helps keep water out, preventing rot and decay.
- But here’s the big difference: deck stains also protect against the sun’s harmful UV rays because of the added pigments. The more pigment or the darker the stain, the better the sun protection.
- There are different types of deck stains. Some, like transparent stains, let you see most of the wood grain. Semi-transparent stains let you see some of the grain, but add more color. And solid stains are like paint, hiding the wood grain completely.
- Deck stains typically last longer than sealers, usually around 2 to 5 years, before you need to reapply.
- Stains come in different types, including oil-based stains, which are known for penetrating the wood and being durable, and water-based stains, which are easier to clean and better for the environment.
- Applying stain can be a little trickier than applying a sealer, so sometimes it’s a good idea to get help from a professional for deck staining projects.
Deck Stain vs. Sealer: What are the Key Differences?
Okay, so let’s break down the main differences between deck stain and sealer:
- Water Protection: Both deck stain and sealer help protect your wood from water damage.
- UV Protection: This is where they differ the most. Sealers don’t do much to protect against the sun, while stains have pigments that give great UV protection.
- Appearance: Sealers are clear, so they keep the wood looking natural. Deck stains add color and can change how much of the wood grain you see.
- How They Work: Sealers usually sit on top of the wood, while deck stains sink into the wood.
- Longevity: Sealers need to be reapplied more often, usually every 1-2 years, whereas deck stains can last for 2-5 years before you need to apply another coat.
- Cost: In general, deck stains cost more than sealers but can save you money in the long run since they last longer.
Common Questions About Deck Staining and Sealing
Here are some other important things to know:
- “Stain and Sealer in One” Products: Many products say “stain and sealer in one”. This is just a stain because all deck stains work as sealers too!
- Can You Apply Sealer Over the Stain? Nope! You cannot put sealer on top of the deck stain. It will peel off, creating a big mess.
- How to Maintain: Before you stain or seal, make sure to clean your deck really well. Semi-transparent stains are easier to reapply, while solid stains might need sanding. Even stains fade over time, and you’ll need to reapply them to keep your deck looking good and protected.
- Peeling: Keep in mind that solid stains and paint can peel if used on the horizontal part of your deck, like the floor.
- Barefoot Comfort: Darker colors of deck stain can get very hot in the sun, which might not be fun if you like to walk on your deck with bare feet.
- Wood Type: If you have woods like cedar or teak, you might want to use a sealer to keep their natural beauty.
- Mildew: If you have mildew on your deck, you’ll need to remove it with a deck cleaner and pressure washer before you stain or seal.
- New Decks: New decks can also be stained.
- Product Recommendations: Some of the best deck stain brands are TWP and Armstrong Clark. You might want to avoid brands like Behr, Sherwin Williams, and Benjamin Moore as some sources say they have issues.
Making the Right Choice for Your Deck
So, which should you choose, deck staining or sealing? Well, it depends on what you want!
- If you want to keep the natural look of your wood and you don’t mind reapplying every year or two, then sealer might be a good option.
- If you want to add color, protect against the sun, and not have to reapply as often, then deck staining is the way to go.
Whatever you decide, remember that protecting your wood deck is important, and either choice is better than nothing at all. Think about what look you like, how much time you want to spend on maintenance, and how much sun your deck gets. If you are confused about staining, you can always ask for help from a professional.
Chester County Deck Staining – Water Boy Soft Wash
Is your deck looking tired and weathered? Just like we discussed in our recent article, your deck needs proper care to stay beautiful and protected from the elements. Water Boy Soft Wash understands the importance of quality deck staining and sealing, and we’re here to help! We don’t just clean, we prepare your wood for the best results. We know that choosing between a deck stain and a sealer can be confusing, but our experts will guide you through the process, ensuring your deck gets exactly what it needs.
Whether you need a simple sealer to enhance your wood’s natural beauty, or a stain for long-lasting color and UV protection, we’ve got you covered. Our gentle soft wash cleaning process will remove mildew and grime, creating a perfect surface for the product of your choice, and we only use top quality products. Don’t let your deck fall victim to sun and water damage. Let Water Boy Soft Wash bring your deck back to life. Contact us today at (610) 812-7378 and let’s discuss how we can make your deck look amazing! Visit us to learn more about our professional services!
Deck Staining and Sealing FAQ
What is the fundamental difference between deck stain and deck sealer?
Deck sealers are primarily designed to protect wood from moisture, insects, mildew, and rot by creating a barrier, typically clear, that allows the natural wood grain to show. They may provide some water resistance. Stains, on the other hand, offer both water-resistance and, more importantly, UV protection due to the added pigments or tone, and they also alter the wood’s color. Essentially, sealers are focused on protection and preserving the wood’s natural look, while stains aim to protect and enhance or change the look of the wood with color. A key point is that all deck stains also act as sealers, so if one does not apply a sealer on top of a stain, it will not adhere properly.
What are the different types of deck stains, and when would you use them?
Deck stains come in various levels of opacity:
- Transparent stains offer minimal color change, showcasing the wood’s natural grain, but they provide very little UV protection and do not prevent graying. They are suitable when you want to preserve the natural color and grain of the wood, and are not worried about the UV exposure.
- Semi-transparent stains provide some color and UV protection, while still allowing a good amount of the wood grain to be visible. They are a good choice for those who want to protect the wood while keeping some of its natural appearance. They are also easier to reapply than more opaque stains because they tend to fade rather than peel.
- Semi-solid stains offer more color and hide more wood grain, creating a film-like coating while still showing some of the wood’s texture and characteristics. They are a middle ground between semi-transparent and solid stains.
- Solid stains act much like paint in that they provide a solid color covering up the wood grain and offer the most UV protection. However, they are more permeable than paint, which means the wood can still “breathe”. They are best for older or more weathered wood where the grain is not a focus but they are not recommended for horizontal surfaces like deck floors as they will typically peel, and are harder to maintain.
Is it okay to use a clear sealant on a deck?
While clear sealers will protect against moisture, they offer little to no UV protection. This means the wood is likely to grey over a relatively short time (months, not years). A tinted stain is preferred if you want to both seal and protect from the sun. Clear sealers are best for situations where natural wood tones are strongly desired, and UV protection is not a concern, such as covered porches, or very high maintenance wood pieces.
Why is UV protection so crucial when treating a deck?
UV protection is vital because prolonged exposure to the sun causes wood to gray, degrade and become more susceptible to water damage. Stains with added pigments block these harmful UV rays, preventing graying, sun damage, and thereby extending the life of the wood. It is crucial to have a tint, even a very light tint, in the stain to provide this protection.
What is the best type of stain for a deck floor, and why?
A penetrating semi-transparent stain is generally considered best for deck floors. Semi-transparent stains wear well because their minimal pigment allows them to fade or sluff, instead of peeling, which is typical of more opaque stains and paints. The fading allows for easier reapplication. A semi-transparent stain also penetrates the wood, offering protection from within rather than creating a film on the surface. If the surface is scratched, the underlying color is still visible. The minimal pigment in semi-transparent stains also makes reapplication easier as no scraping or sanding is typically required – just a scrub-down.
How often should a deck be re-stained or re-sealed?
Generally, most decks should be re-stained or re-sealed every 2-3 years. The frequency will depend on the product used and the environment’s exposure. Sealers often require reapplication every two years or less, while quality penetrating semi-transparent stains can last longer with proper maintenance. Regular maintenance including cleaning is key. Also, two coats are often recommended when you first stain to start, and maintenance coats may require fewer coats of stain.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when staining or sealing a deck?
Some common mistakes include:
- Applying a sealer over a stain: Stains already act as sealers and a top coat of sealer will not adhere properly.
- Using solid stains on horizontal surfaces: Solid stains and paints tend to peel, flake, and chip on decks. Semi-transparent stains are more suitable for horizontal surfaces due to their wear characteristics.
- Neglecting surface preparation: Proper preparation is crucial and this includes cleaning, and in some cases sanding, before applying the finish. This ensures the best adhesion and appearance.
- Choosing products based only on ease of application: Products that are easy for a homeowner or contractor to apply do not necessarily equate to longevity.
- Using a non-permeable paint rather than a permeable stain: Paint does not allow the wood to breathe properly. Use solid stains instead, which are permeable.
How can I tell if my deck needs to be resealed or restained?
You can use a simple water test to determine if your deck needs reapplication. Pour a small amount of water on the horizontal surface. If the water is absorbed within 30 seconds, the deck is ready for resealing or restaining. If the water pools on the surface, your current sealant or stain is still effective.
