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Deck Staining 101

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Stain Your Deck in the Spring 2025

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Best Time to Stain Your Deck in 2025: Why Spring is Ideal

If you have a wood deck, regular care and maintenance are essential to preserving its appearance and structural integrity. One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is waiting too long to stain their deck. Before they know it, the wood has started to weather, crack, or even grow mildew. To keep your deck looking great and protected from the elements, make it a priority to stain it regularly—either annually or every other year.

Why Spring is the Best Time to Stain Your Deck

Spring is the season for outdoor home improvement projects, from lawn care to landscaping. Including deck maintenance in your spring routine ensures your wood stays in top shape year-round. Here’s why spring is the best time to stain your deck:

  • Ideal Temperatures for Staining – Most deck stains, including TWP 100, should be applied when air temperatures are between 50°F and 90°F. Spring typically offers the perfect balance—not too hot, not too cold.
  • Avoiding Summer Heat – While summer is a common time for outdoor projects, staining a deck in extreme heat or direct sunlight can lead to uneven application and premature drying, which may affect the stain’s durability.
  • Preventing Fall Hassles – While fall temperatures can also be suitable for staining, falling leaves and debris can make the process frustrating. Spring avoids these obstacles.
  • Longer Enjoyment – Staining in spring means your deck is ready for the entire warm-weather season, giving you more time to enjoy outdoor living.

Staining Tips for Spring 2025

To get the best results, follow these essential deck staining tips:

  1. Check the Weather – Spring can be rainy in many areas, so plan for at least 2-3 consecutive dry days to allow proper drying and curing.
  2. Avoid Direct Sunlight – Stain in the morning or late afternoon to prevent the stain from drying too quickly in the sun.
  3. Watch Nighttime Temperatures – Even if daytime temps are above 50°F, ensure that nighttime lows don’t drop too much while the stain cures.
  4. Wait for Tree Buds to Drop – If you have trees like cottonwoods nearby, wait until buds or flowers have fallen to prevent debris from sticking to fresh stain.
  5. Prep the Surface – Always clean your deck using a high-quality wood cleaner before staining. Let the deck dry for at least 48 hours before applying stain.

By making deck staining part of your spring maintenance routine, you’ll protect your investment and keep your outdoor space looking great for years to come.

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Deck Staining 101

The Best Deck Stains 2025

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Updated for 2025 – Best Deck Stains

Restore-A-Deck Wood Stain: A Top Performer

One of the newer, more impressive stains on the market right now is the Restore-A-Deck Wood Stain. It’s a water-based, synthetic resin, semi-transparent stain made with high-quality resins that bond firmly to the wood. A key advantage of this stain is its same-day application—you can apply it right after prepping your deck, saving both time and effort. While it may cost more than budget options, its long-term durability makes it a worthwhile investment.

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Deck Staining Myths and Tips 2025

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Deck Stain Tips & Myths

When it comes to staining your exterior wood deck, there’s a lot of misinformation out there. Avoid these common myths to ensure a long-lasting, professional-quality finish.

Common Deck Staining Myths Debunked

? Myth: Thicker or More Stain Lasts Longer
? Truth: Applying excess stain doesn’t mean better protection. Wood can only absorb so much stain—any extra will sit on the surface, leading to premature peeling, flaking, and uneven wear, especially in high-traffic areas.

? Myth: New Wood is Ready to be Stained
? Truth: Fresh wood needs proper preparation before staining. Always clean new wood with a deck cleaner and follow up with a deck brightener to open the wood’s pores. This allows the stain to penetrate effectively, ensuring better adhesion and longevity.

? Myth: Water Should Bead on the Wood After Staining
? Truth: Water should shed off the wood, not bead up. Beading typically means the surface is completely sealed with waxes or silicones, which prevent the wood from breathing. Over time, this can trap moisture and lead to wood damage.

? Myth: 5-6 Year Deck Stain Warranties Mean Long-Lasting Protection
? Truth: No deck stain will last more than 2-3 years on a horizontal, exposed wood surface. Weather, dirt, UV rays, and foot traffic all contribute to natural wear and tear. Many extended stain warranties come with exclusions that make them virtually meaningless.

? Myth: A Deck Should Look Like a Hardwood Floor
? Truth: A glossy, polyurethane-like finish on an outdoor deck is a bad idea. These finishes trap moisture, peel, and flake, causing a maintenance nightmare. The best deck stains penetrate the wood rather than forming a surface film, ensuring better durability.

? Got Deck Staining Questions?
Leave a comment on our website! We’re here to help you achieve the best results for your deck in 2025 and beyond.

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Deck Staining 101

How To Stain Your Deck Faster and With The Proper Tools!

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Deck Staining Tips 2023

One of the questions that I get asked as a Deck Restoration Expert is how long should it take to stain a 500 square foot deck? My typical answer is 2-3 hours which usually gets a blank stare or a laugh. The fact is that I can actually do it in half the time. The key is having the proper tools and a few tips to make the process more efficient.

These suggestions will make your deck restoration project faster, with less mess, and with a better overall appearance.

Equipment Needed:

  • Deck Stain Pad – These work better than brushes as they are more absorbent and they allow you to “push” the stain into the wood.
  • Deck Floor Mop – Same as stain pad but much bigger. This tool alone can save you a substantial amount of time while applying the stain perfectly even.
  • Pump Up Sprayer – Usually plastic. This applies the deck stain faster.
  • Large Plastic Tarp – Catches drips and over-spray on bushes and grass.
  • 9×12 Canvas Trap – Contains overspray when using the sprayer on the railings.
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Deck Staining 101

What Type of Deck Stain is Best For Me?

by Clay
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Deck Staining Tips 2023

As you may already know, there are three basic kinds of deck stains available on the market: clear, semi-transparent, and opaque stains. Although each type of stain will help to protect and prolong the life and looks of your deck, each different type of stain has a different reapplication rate and special characteristics.

Remember that before applying any stain, you need to clean your deck properly. Using an oxygen bleach and a garden hose as well as a little elbow grease will get your deck ready to be stained or sealed. Before applying any stain, perform a water test on the deck. Sprinkle water around on a few places on the deck itself. If the water does not sink in within a few seconds, then your deck will not absorb any stain. If your deck does not absorb water, you may want to invest in the best stain stripper or another chemical remover for your deck. You can also simply let it weather for a few more months and try the water test again.

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TWP 100 Series

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TWP 100 Pro Series

The TWP 100 Series will now be called the TWP 100 Pro Series! See here for More Info: TWP 100 Series Label Change

When it comes to preserving any exterior wood surface, it’s important to know that the wood stain you use can make all the difference. For the do-it-yourselfer,. there isn’t anything more essential than getting good results. Whether it’s a wood deck, fence, cedar shakes, wood siding, or other wood structure, choosing the right deck stain will make or break the project.

When searching for the right deck stain for your situation you should consider many different factors – overall appearance, stain longevity, ease of application, price, and so on. What you want to avoid is using the wrong exterior stain. Many of the deck stains sold at the home centers are inferior in comparison to a contractor-grade stain.

Try to steer clear of deck stains that are heavily pigmented and color solid. Also, stay away from stains that are 100% acrylic and/or have silicone in them. These types of wood stains stay on top of the surface and form a film similar to paint. Climate and temperature changes cause these film-forming stains to crack, flake, and peel leaving your deck or other wood structure in worse shape than it was. Once this type of deck stain does fail, it’s extremely costly and labor-intensive to remove but a necessary evil to restore the wood. It’s best just to avoid these types of deck stains all together.

Most wood experts agree a better choice is a semi-transparent deck stain such as TWP 100 series. This non-film-forming deck stain protects against water and UV damage by penetrating deep into the wood. TWP 100 deck stain is mold and mildew resistant to prevent wood rot, decay, and structural damage. The TWP Stain is an easy to apply formula which makes it the perfect deck stain for the enthusiastic do-it-yourselfer looking for professional results.

With over half a dozen tones to choose from, you’ll get the look you want and the protection you need. See why the experts recommend TWP 100 series deck stain. Experience lasting results and protect your investment for years of enjoyment.

For a low VOC version visit TWP 1500 Series

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Is Staining a Pressure Treated Deck Necessary

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Pressure Treated Pine

Pressure Treated Pine

There seems to be some confusion on the part of consumers concerning pressure treated decks. This is one of the most popular choices for deck lumber due to its durability and fair cost. Through our experience, we have found that many homeowners are under the impression that pressure treated wood does not need to be stained or sealed.

The main reason that some homeowners think this is due to the word “treated.” Many people believe that treated means that it’s already protected from the weather. Unfortunately, this is not the case.

The chemical treating process that is normally done at the lumber mill, is to deter termites and other insects from eating the wood and nothing more. Similar to railroad ties and utility poles being treated with creosote, pressure treated lumber for residential use is normally treated with preservatives like sodium borates and chromate copper arsenate.

The wood is placed inside a locked cylinder then vacuum and pressure are both applied to force the preservatives into the wood, thus “pressure treated.” Again, it’s all to deter bugs and some types of fungal decay but there is no protection at all from the sun’s UV rays or moisture.

Therefore, like other woods used for deck construction, pressure treated lumber needs to have an aftermarket deck stain or sealer applied to it for sufficient sun and moisture protection. When pressure treated lumber is protected properly with a deck stain, and maintained every couple of years, it can withstand the elements for a very long time.

Pine Deck Stain

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Deck Stains – Water Based vs. Oil Based

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It’s highly important to protect your exterior wood surfaces such as decks, fences, wood siding, outdoor furniture, and other exterior structures. These surfaces are subjected to unforgiving weather conditions during all seasons. A quality wood stain will save you time and money spent on wood maintenance.

Unlike paint, which forms a film atop the surface, wood decking stains penetrate the surface providing better protection and allowing the wood characteristics to show through. Whether you want to make the wood grain pop out with a semi-transparent deck stain or hide it with a more solid color, it’s important that you provide some measure of protection. Another choice is whether to go with oil based deck stain or water based.

Water Based Deck Stain

Water Based Deck Stain

Water Based Deck Stains

Water based wood stains will normally adhere better to a surface that has formerly been painted or stained with an oil based stain. A water based stain will also retain its color better than oil. They are more breathable meaning they won’t trap moisture which can cause a stain to fail. Other factors worth noting with water based stains are fewer odors, a quicker drying time, are non-flammable, and they clean up with soap and water. Water based wood stains are usually recommended for woods that naturally resist rot and decay, for example cypress, redwood, and cedar.

Oil Based Deck Stains

Oil based wood stains are commonly suggested for wood decks, fences, gazebos, and other surfaces exposed to harsh weather. They offer better penetration than a water based stain and excellent durability in tough conditions. A longer drying time is expected, but this actually allows the stain to accomplish a more even finish.

Oil Based Deck Stain

Oil Based Deck Stain

Hybrid Deck Stains

Some deck stain manufacturers offer a hybrid wood stain consisting of both water based latex and oil. These hybrid type wood stains offer some of the benefits of both water and oil based stains.

Choosing an exterior wood stain should depend on the situation and the surface you are staining. Many factors can determine whether you should use an oil or water based stain. Ask yourself what you are looking for in a stain – durability over better color retention – easy cleanup over a more even finish and so on. Research the stain and see what others are saying about it before you make a decision and be sure you are getting a quality wood stain so you get the results you want.

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Why Paints Do Not Work on Decks

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English: IPE Deck Stain

Penetrating Wood Deck Stain

Wood decks have always been very popular. They add extra outdoor living space to your home, increase your home’s value, and provide a great place for family outings or just relaxing. Wood decks however, do need to be protected from the environment if they are expected to last many years.

To protect a wooden deck you have several choices. Deck stains and sealers come in many different textures, tints, colors, and varieties. Deck stains are certainly the best option for providing adequate protection from the weather and the sun’s harsh UV rays.

Many people ask if painting a deck is a good option. Most experts will agree that paint will not work well for protecting a wood deck. If you have ever seen a painted deck that has failed you probably noticed the paint was cracking and peeling.

Wood expands and contracts naturally with changing temperatures and weather conditions. Paint also expands and contracts but not at the same rate as wood. This indifference in fluctuation causes the paint to crack over time.

Because the bottoms of the deck boards are normally not coated with paint, moisture will still penetrate the wood. Unlike a more breathable deck

stain, paint traps this moisture in the wood which causes the paint to peel and flake. Normally the peeling and flaking is first noticeable near the edges of each board.

Reasons Not To Use Paint on a Wood Deck

  • Paint requires time and labor intensive methods to maintain.
  • Requires 2 coats to be more effective in the elements.
  • To have any duration of protection with paint, a primer should be used first which adds to the cost.
  • Paint will inevitably fail by cracking and peeling, and when it does, it’s costly to have it removed and replaced.

If you want the solid color look of paint, a solid colored deck stain is a better option. Semi-transparent deck stains can have tint and color added to them as well. Deck stains penetrate the wood as opposed to creating a film on top of the wood like paint does. Deck stains and sealers are a much better choice over paint for protecting your wooden deck for years of enjoyment.

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Deck Stain Help | Ratings and Reviews

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For most homeowners, restoring or maintaining an exterior wooden deck can be a difficult task. With all the available products for deck stains, deck cleaners, deck stain strippers, and wood deck brighteners it’s difficult to even know where to start.

To help homeowners with the enormous task of restoring and maintaining their wooden deck it all starts with finding the right information. DeckStainHelp.com offers tons of reviews and advice to get your deck done right.

With 5 years worth of reviews for all available wood deck stains, deck stain strippers, deck cleaners, and deck brighteners it’s easy to find the right products for restoring your wood deck.

The deck stain reviews are a collection of unbiased ratings of how different deck stains perform and hold up after a 2 year period. Specific deck stains and deck cleaning products are given an overall score on how well they perform. This makes it easy for homeowners to compare one product to another without a biased opinion or sales pitch.

Many deck product reviews and articles will also help answer the most common deck restoration questions. There is also a deck restoration forum where homeowners can ask specific questions and read a wealth of information.

Restoring and maintaining a wooden deck can be a difficult task. Being armed with the right information and the best products available will certainly make the job easier, saving you time and money. Check out DeckStainHelp.com for the latest up to date information for deck restoration articles, deck stain ratings, and wood deck tips and advice.

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Deck Stain Turned Black?

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We have had many questions as to why a wood deck stain has darkened or turned black in color after a few years. There are many reasons why this can happen to any of the wood deck stains that are on the market.

  • Stain did not cure/dry properly. This typically happens from over application resulting in pollen, dirt, etc getting into the stain while still tacky. If pollen from trees gets trapped in the stain, then mold and mildew can grow causing the stain to darken in color.
  • Very wet climate resulting in mold and mildew growing on top of the stain or even in the stain.
  • Inferior stains containing “cheap grade” of linseed oil without adding the proper mildewcides to combat future growth of mold/mildew.
  • Very High UV index can darken the stain. Many wood deck stains contain trans oxides. If there is a tremendous amount of UV then the stain can darken in color.
  • General dirt and grime from trees offering little to no sunlight.

Some wood deck stains are more prevalent to darkening in color then others but by no means is this common issue related to just one brand.

Here is a list of Wood Deck Stains that are not prone to darkening in color:

TWP Deck Stains

Defy Wood Stains

Armstrong Clark Stains

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Deck Staining Products Help

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Many customers have become confused to all the info on the Internet as to what is the “Best Deck Stain” and what products should I use to prep the wood. The Sealer Store has created a very useful online page to simplify the products needed to restore your wood deck. On this page you will find:

  • Product filter that will narrow all the choices of deck stains available. This will help you decide what is the best deck stains for you and your type of wood.
  • Steps to properly prep the wood prior to applying a stain
  • Many articles and How To tips for restoring your wood. These articles will help guide you through all the needed procedures to restore properly.

Wood Deck Staining Help

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