While newer decks are built using composite materials (i.e., wood, plastic, vinyl) designed not to need paint or stain, older wooden decks do require ongoing maintenance to insure a long life. Traditionally, stains have been the sealant method of choice for wooden decks because stain allows the grain of the wood to show through accentuating its beauty. However, decks can also be painted; not only to extend the range of color options, but also to protect the wood from decay. Is one method better than the other? Let’s explore the pros and cons of stain vs. paint when it comes to decking.
Stain is Less Expensive
The cost of a gallon of deck stain generally falls somewhere between $20 and $30 and are typically formulated to include a wood preservative. Exterior paint formulated for decking starts at $30 per gallon and may run as high as $60 per gallon. Plus, when painting a deck, wood preservative (at $15 – $40 p/g) and primer ($15 – $30 p/g) need to be applied before the paint.
Applying Stain is Easier
Provided the deck surface has been properly cleaned, repaired and sanded, stain can be readily applied with a brush or roller in a single coat. As stain has less viscosity than paint, it’s less susceptible to pooling and is more readily spread to cover the surface. In addition, many stains are are formulated with sealers which mean a single application of the stain will suffice without requiring an additional clear topcoat.
Paint Lasts Longer
With proper preparation and application, a painted deck can last up to ten years or more before needing attention. Stained decks typically require re-staining every 7-8 years. Oil-based exterior paints provide excellent protection against water damage. Latex paints will be less susceptible to fading or discoloration from exposure to UV radiation.
Paint Cleans More Readily
Because paint (even matte or low-gloss formulations) dries to a slick surface, it’s easier to keep clean via sweeping. The natural wood surface of a stained deck readily traps dirt and requires greater effort (scrubbing with a brush or power-washing) to keep clean.
Stain to Paint vs. Paint to Stain
It’s relatively easy to paint over a deck that’s been stained. However, going from a painted deck back to a stained deck is much more problematic and costly. First, the all of the paint and primer needs to be removed either by using chemical paint strippers, heat guns, and sanding. Then, after the surface has been properly prepared, stain can be applied. Thus, the decision to paint a deck requires the understanding that returning to the natural wood appearance of a stained deck is not easily achieved.