What lasts longer on a deck paint or stain?

A quality paint job, finished by a trusted professional, can last for ten years before needing repainting. Conversely, stains need reapplied every few years because they don't offer the same protection against outdoor elements.

Is it better to paint or stain a deck?

If the deck is made with pressure-treated woods, the stain will adhere better than paint. If pressure-treated woods are used, stain seeps into the deck, becoming a part of the deck rather than an added layer, which means that it won't chip, crack or flake.

What is the longest lasting deck finish?

In general, an oil-based deck stain will last the longest, but it also depends on the type of wood, the weather conditions, and how long the deck has gone unprotected before staining.

What lasts longer exterior paint or stain?

Done right, an exterior paint job can last 10 years; stain needs to be reapplied more often, anywhere from two to 10 years, depending on the type of stain. One key to how long an exterior finish lasts is how well the surface is prepared.

How many years does stain last on a deck?

The best stains should last three to five years on a deck and even longer if applied to siding or fences, which don't get as much abuse.

Deck Paint vs Stain: What’s Best for Wooden Decks?

Why does my deck stain peel every year?

Deck stains will generally peel for two basic reasons: over application and poor adhesion. This is simple — too much stain on the surface of the wood. With deck stains, specifically with semi-transparent finishes, more is not better. You only want to apply as much product as the wood can easily absorb.

When should you not stain a deck?

You want to apply the stain when the wood surface and air are in the temperature range of 50° – 90°F. You also want to avoid the direct application of sunlight. Lastly, do not apply a stain if there is a forecast of rain in the following one to two days, or all your hard work could end up being washed away.

Is it better to paint or stain wood for outside?

Staining your home's exterior

Because stain seeps into the wood, it's more protective than a coat of paint which is a coating that simply sits on the top of the wood. Solid stains look almost identical to paint but are more protective to the wood because they seep into the porous wood fibers.

Should I paint or stain outdoor wood?

But in a head-to-head of painting vs. staining the deck, paint generally comes out as the more durable and colorfast finish, lasting 10 years or longer before requiring re-application. Oil-based paints offer the best protection from moisture, whereas latex paints provide the best defense against UV-related fading.

How often should I stain my deck?

Typically, homeowners should restain horizontal surfaces such as decks every two to three years. Poor deck upkeep will decrease the time you have to enjoy the deck before restaining it, while good deck upkeep may give you another year or two before you need to restain the deck.

Do painted decks last longer?

A quality paint job can last for up to 10 years when it's done right. Paint allows you more color options, as where stain is limited to shades of brown. Because paint fills gaps and cracks, it hides the flaws of a weathered or old deck much better than stain does.

How can I make my deck last forever?

Sealing a deck after pressure washing by a pro is the best way to add years to its life. Restain the deck when necessary. The color will fade over the years, so whenever you reseal the deck, check to see if you need to add more stain. Use an oil-based deck stain rather than a solid one.

Is it OK to stain a deck every year?

Stains don't generally last more than a year. This means yearly cleaning, staining and, if necessary, sanding of your deck every year.

Is it cheaper to paint or stain a deck?

Price. When you stain a deck, you don't need a primer or sealer—only the stain. Stain tends to cost less per gallon, too. Most stains run between $20 and $60 per gallon, while exterior paint usually costs $55 to $75 per gallon.

What time of year should you paint a deck?

Consumer Reports notes the best time to paint or stain a deck is late spring when temperatures are between 60 and 85°F and the nights are cool. You'll need four dry days for preparation, for application, and for a finish to completely dry.

Do I need to remove old stain before painting a deck?

When in Doubt, Strip Away the Old Stain. Generally speaking, it's a good idea to completely remove all traces of the previous coat of deck stain before applying a new one. The reasons for this may be fairly obvious -- a previous coat of stain might be peeling away from the surface in several areas.

What color deck hides dirt best?

Black or chocolate brown. These darker tones are great for high traffic areas, since they hide dirt well. They're still neutral, which means they are easy to pair with just about any color scheme.

Why use solid stain instead of paint?

A solid stain will better accentuate the texture of the wood, so a rough surface likely calls for stain over paint. The disadvantage here is that solid stains are very flat and thus are typically less durable than paint.

What is the best paint for an old deck?

Does staining wood make it weatherproof?

Stains are used on wood to enhance color and make them weather resistant. Sealants protect concrete and wood from moisture but do not stop water movement through the concrete from the outside.

Is it cheaper to paint or stain wood?

Stain is typically less costly than paint and comes in fewer colors and options. It is typically used for wood projects but there are some options available for concrete as well. However, stain is easier to apply and often does not need more than one coat.

Why is my deck paint peeling?

What causes deck paint to peel? 'Peeling deck paint is usually caused by poor quality paint, incorrect application, or inadequate surface preparation,' says Charlie Tack of ADA Fastfix.

What month is best to stain a deck?

Because you want to wait for days that aren't excessively hot or humid, the best times to apply deck stains are in the late spring and early fall, when the weather is moderately warm and dry.

Is it OK to pressure wash a deck before staining?

Taking your time is key to power washing a deck successfully. Now that the wood has been cleaned and stripped of grime, you can sand it and apply your stain of choice. Power washing a deck before staining will allow the wood to absorb the stain better and deeper.

Is it better to stain a deck in the morning or evening?

Don't apply your deck stain in the direct sun; choose morning or evening hours, or a time of day when your deck has shade. Morning application can be a safer choice to help avoid any contact with dew that sets in overnight. Don't apply more stain than the wood can absorb.