Without a quality deck stain, your pressure-treated wood can result in premature fading, cracking, and peeling. This not only diminishes its appearance, but it also leaves it more susceptible to damage from UV rays and moisture.
These can lead to costly repairs and replacements. To avoid this, our resident woodworkers will recommend options for the best deck stain for pressure-treated wood for a wise investment.
Reviews of the Top Deck Stains for Pressure-Treated Wood
1. DEFY Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain
The DEFY Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain is a water-based deck stain that allows the natural grain of the wood to show because of its semi-transparent, natural matte finish.
Its zinc nano-particles reflect UV rays to keep your pressure-treated wood deck cooler and prevent color loss and premature graying, and it is mold and mildew resistant. This solid color stain has high-quality resins that resist fading and darkening. It’s also easy to maintain with a single maintenance coat.
It’s also water-based and VOC-compliant, making it safer and more eco-friendly than many other stains. We tested it on outdoor surfaces like benches and porches, and it still offers superior protection and durability.
What We Like
- Long-lasting and durable
- Fortified with zinc nano-particle technology
- Water-based formula
- An environmentally friendly alternative.
What We Don't Like
- The stain requires surface preparation
- The semi-transparent nature of the stain may not be suitable for those looking for a fully opaque finish.
2. Seal-Once Nano+Poly Penetrating Wood Sealer
The Seal-Once Nano+Poly Penetrating Wood Sealer is a water-based, odorless sealer that provides excellent protection for pressure-treated wood against wear and tear in high-traffic areas.
It offers a premium gloss finish and is easy to clean up with soap and water. Since, this is a penetrating stain, it creates a long-lasting, water-resistant shield that works from within, unlike many other sealers that only form a topcoat.
It also contains UV inhibitors to protect pressure-treated decks against sun damage and won’t peel or flake. It’s available in clear and tinted formulas and is simple to apply, and dries quickly. However, it is more expensive than other deck stains.
What We Like
- Odorless and easy to clean up with soap and water
- It can be safely applied around landscaping and vegetationc
- Creates a flexible, breathable barrier that allows the wood to grey naturally
- Ultra-low VOC, making it safe to use
- UV-stable coating option that is an excellent alternative to oil-based sealers
What We Don't Like
- It may be more expensive than some other wood sealers on the market
- Some may prefer a more natural look, as the polyurethane finish can be quite glossy
3. Storm System Stain Protector
The Storm System Stain Protector is an oil-based specifically formulated to withstand harsh weather conditions, including sun exposure, rain, and freezing and thawing cycles.
The deep penetration of the stain and sealer offers additional protection against the elements, while the trans-oxide pigmentation provides vibrant color and depth. With six beautiful colors to choose from, this semi-transparent alkyd product ensures a stunning and durable finish.
During the product testing, despite its thick consistency, it has a short drying time of only 24 hours. However, it may not offer the best value for money as one gallon of the product can only cover an area of 125-175 sq. ft. on porous surfaces.
What We Like
- Offers both stain and sealer properties
- Quick drying time
- Affordable
- It can be applied to multiple wood species, such as redwood, cedar, pine, Douglas fir, spruce, cypress, mahogany, and pressure-treated lumber.
- Designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
- Provides UV protection to prevent color fading.
- Ready-to-use formula
What We Don't Like
- The coverage area is small
- Only available in a semi-transparent finish
4. SaverSystems #1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain
The SaverSystems’ #1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Stain is a high-quality water-based deck stain designed to provide both protection and beauty for your pressure-treated wood projects. It protects against UV rays, acts as a stain and sealer, and is available in 4 beautiful semi-transparent finishes.
It contains a unique blend of resins and oils that penetrate deeply into the wood, providing long-lasting protection against fading, graying, mold, and mildew. Unlike other deck stains, it doesn’t peel or flake off easily.
Aside from decks, it’s suitable for pressure-treated lumber, fences, outdoor furniture, play sets, and other outdoor wood surfaces. Additionally, it’s affordable compared to other stains for decks on the market.
What We Like
- Compliant with VOC regulations in all states
- Provides waterproofing protection
- It can be applied to damp wood
- Easy to apply
- Partially see-through stain
- Functions as both a stain and sealer
What We Don't Like
- It may not be suitable for use on certain hardwoods or exotic woods
- Coverage may vary based on the type and condition of the wood, requiring multiple gallons for larger projects
5. Storm System Two-Toned Dual Dispersion Finish
The Storm System Two-Toned Dual Dispersion Finish is a game-changer for DIY enthusiasts and woodworking hobbyists. Its unique teak finish enhances the pressure-treated wood’s natural beauty while providing a long-lasting stain.
Its consistency makes for easy application, and its fast-drying formula allows for a second coat in just a few hours. The two-toned effect gives pressure-treated wooden surfaces a rich, luxurious look, and the dual dispersion technology enhances the wood grain, providing a remarkable depth and character.
We’re impressed by its durability because it can withstand direct sunlight, rain, and temperature fluctuations without showing signs of fading or peeling.
What We Like
- Dual dispersion technology enhances the wood grain
- Fast-drying formula and easy to apply with a brush
- Resistant to harsh weather conditions and heavy foot traffic
- Low odor
What We Don't Like
- It may require multiple coats, increasing project time and cost
- May not adhere well to previously stained or painted surfaces without proper preparation
6. Ready Seal 512 Pail Natural Cedar Tone Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood
The Ready Seal 512 is a superior-quality deck stain and sealer that doesn’t require a primer and provides a professional-looking finish. During application, the stain reaches its true color after about two weeks and should not be applied to freshly stained or painted surfaces.
Ready Seal wood stain can be easily applied without the need for back brushing, wet-line application, diluting, or thinning. The product blends independently and can be applied in any temperature range, making it suitable for various climates.
Its “Goof Proof” application can achieve a streak-free finish with ease. Re-application is easy and does not require sanding or stripping, making maintenance a breeze.
What We Like
- It can be applied directly onto the wood surface without a primer, saving time and effort.
- No laps, runs, or streaks, ensuring a professional-looking finish even for novice users.
- Easy maintenance
- The product will blend itself, ensuring a smooth and even finish.
What We Don't Like
- Stain color takes 14 days to develop, which may not be ideal for some users.
- Some states require a PaintCare recycling fee, adding to the cost for customers in those areas.
7. KILZ Waterproofing Wood Stain, Exterior, Semi-Transparent
Another good option to stain pressure-treated wood is KILZ Waterproofing Stain. This is a semi-transparent exterior stain that protects pressure-treated wood from the sun, rain, and snow. Aside from the deck, it can also be used on patio furniture, railings, siding, and fences.
The advanced formula ensures long-lasting protection and maintains the beauty of the wood. No wonder it is one of the best deck stains for pressure-treated wood because it provides superior coverage, allowing up to 600 square feet with two coats.
In addition to its advantages, the stain is resistant to fading, cracking, peeling, and mildew. It can also withstand different weather conditions.
What We Like
- Provides UV protection and waterproofing for wood
- It can be used on exterior wood surfaces
- Protects against rain, snow, and sun exposure with its 100% Acrylic formula
- Covers 250-300 square feet with the first coat and 500-600 square feet with the second coat per gallon
What We Don't Like
- Waiting period of 1-2 hours needed before the second coat
- Requires proper preparation of new to moderately weathered and unsealed exterior wood surfaces, which may involve additional time and effort.
8. Rain Guard Water Sealer
The Rain Guard Water Sealer is a water-based wood sealant that offers long-lasting protection for pressure-treated wood decks. It penetrates deep into the surface, creating a clear, natural finish that won’t yellow or change the appearance.
It contains Micro-Lok, which creates a barrier against damaging elements such as weather, salt, dirt, and UV light. The concentrated formulation is easy to mix and covers up to 400 square feet when mixed with water.
This is the best option if you’re on a budget and looking for a low-odor formula. However, the coverage area is relatively small, and the clear options may not provide enough color options.
What We Like
- Penetrates deep into the surface to inhibit moisture damage
- Offers a clear, natural finish that won't have a yellow appearance
- Engineered with Micro-Lok to create a hydrophobic barrier
- Cost-effective and easy-to-mix solution
What We Don't Like
- It may require multiple heavy coats for optimal protection
- You must prep the surface before the application
Should You Stain Pressure-Treated Wood?
Pressure-treated wood is treated with chemicals to resist decay, rot, and insect damage, making it more durable for outdoor use.
However, pressure-treated wood can still be susceptible to weathering, UV damage, and wear and tear over time. Staining pressure-treated wood can help protect it and extend its life while also improving its appearance.
Staining the wood provides additional protection against UV rays, moisture, and regular wear. Staining can also make maintenance easier, but the wood must be allowed to dry completely before applying the stain.
It’s recommended to use high-quality stains for pressure-treated wood and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for best results.
Your Deck Stain Options
Specialty Stains
Specialty stains possess distinctive characteristics like water resistance and UV protection and are typically developed for specific purposes, such as pressure-treated wood. These stains are frequently oil-based and marketed for pressure-treated wood.
Oil-Based Deck Stains
Oil-based stain is considered less environmentally friendly than water-based stains because they contain more chemicals. However, this dense oil-based deck stain usually provides a more uniform result, requires less maintenance, and deeply penetrates the wood.
Water-Based Deck Stains
These are environmentally friendly as they don’t contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and are light and breathable. Additionally, these stains retain their color for an extended period and display a high level of resistance to the growth of mildew and mold [1].
Deck Stains for Treated Wood: Buyer’s Guide
Quality
The quality of the deck stain is critical, as low-quality stains may not last long or provide adequate protection. Look for stains labeled as “UV resistant” and “mildew resistant” to identify high-quality options.
Additionally, opting for reputable brands like Behr, Cabot Stain, or Olympic can also help ensure to get the best deck stain for pressure-treated wood.
Shade
The shade of the deck stain is an important factor to consider as it affects the deck’s appearance. Various wood stains offer different looks, so it’s important to choose the right shade.
Lighter stain looks natural, while darker stain creates a more dramatic effect. Furthermore, there are varying degrees of transparency available in stains, such as opaque or semi-transparent.
Certain stains enable the wood’s natural grain to be visible, so select the level of shade that best achieves your desired appearance.
Stain Type
A deck stain is primarily categorized into an oil-based stain and a water-based stain.
Oil-based stains are more long-lasting and provide better protection, but they can be more difficult to apply. Water-based stains are easy to apply and clean up, but they are not as durable as oil-based stains.
Wood Type
To achieve optimal results when staining pressure-treated wood, it’s crucial to use the appropriate stain for each wood type.
Pressure-treated wood, for example, is often treated with chromate copper arsenate (CCA), making it challenging for some stains to stick to and soak into the wood.
To avoid any issues, it’s recommended to use a stain specifically designed for pressure-treated wood. Meanwhile, other wood types offer more options and flexibility when choosing a stain.
Application
The complexity of applying stains can vary. If you’re new to deck staining, it’s recommended to opt for a product that’s straightforward to apply and doesn’t demand any particular skills or knowledge.
Cost
Stains for decks can vary in price, so consider your budget when selecting a product. Typically, the cost of deck stains is correlated with their quality, but budget-friendly options can also be of excellent quality.
Quantity
The quantity of stain required will influence your choice of stain. Make sure to get the measurement of the area of your pressure-treated wood deck in square feet so that you can determine the quantity of stain you need to buy.
Environmental Friendliness
To protect the environment, consider the environmental friendliness of deck stains before purchasing. An oil-based stain may be harmful to the environment and challenging to dispose of, whereas a water-based stain is a more eco-friendly alternative.
Furthermore, a water-based or oil-based deck stain may contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are hazardous chemicals. Selecting a product with low VOCs is essential for ensuring safety.
Steps to Staining Your Deck in 5 Easy Steps
Step #1: Pick Your Prefered Stain
With a wide range of options available in terms of stain colors, types, and brands, it’s crucial to choose the best stains for pressure-treated deck.
To ensure that you make an informed decision, conduct thorough research and gather all the necessary information about each option. This will help you determine which stain is best for your pressure-treated lumber and will provide the desired finish.
Step #2: Prepare the Wood
This involves cleaning the wood and removing any existing stains or sealants, which can be accomplished using a power washer, deck cleaner, or sandpaper.
In cases where you are staining a pressure-treated lumber with peeling paint or an old stain, it’s important to remove as much of the old finish as possible before proceeding with the new stain.
After cleaning, make sure to let the wood dry completely before moving on to the next procedure. Remember that it’s crucial never to stain damp wood, which can lead to uneven absorption and an unsatisfactory finish.
Step #3: Mix and Shake the Stain
Properly stirring and shaking your stain before beginning the staining process ensures that the stain color is uniformly spread out throughout the can.
You can use a paint stick to stir the stain, mixing it thoroughly from the bottom of the can to the top. By taking the time to stir and shake your stain, you’ll ensure that it goes on evenly and that the final result is exactly what you’re looking for.
Step #4: Apply the Stain
Now that you have completed all the necessary preparation, it’s time to begin the staining process. You’ll require a roller or a paintbrush specifically designed for use with stains.
Begin applying the stain to the wood deck edge and gradually work your way inward. Make sure to apply the stain evenly across the entire wood surface. If you’re working in direct sunlight, the color of the stain may dry up too fast.
To prevent this, apply a thicker stain coat. This will help the stain penetrate the wood and produce a more even finish.
Step #5: Let the Stain Dry
After you have completed the staining process, it’s important to allow the stain to be completely dry before applying a sealant or walking on the deck. This is because walking on wet or tacky stains can cause them to become uneven and ruin the finish.
Top 5 Reasons to Stain Your Deck
1. Protects the Wood from Weathering & Fading
Staining your deck has several advantages, including protecting the wood against weathering and fading. By applying the best stain, you can safeguard the wood from the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can lead to deterioration and fading over time.
Additionally, the best stains will create a protective barrier against moisture, helping to prevent wood, even untreated wood, from becoming warped, cracked, or damaged.
2. Seals Toxic Chemicals
Many stains have the added benefit of functioning as effective sealants. This means that they not only add color to the pressure-treated deck but also help to seal it. Some pressure-treated wood has dangerous chemicals like arsenic, which the stain seals in.
The stain penetrates the wood and creates a seal that prevents the infiltration of harmful substances into the wood and the leakage of existing harmful substances out of it.
3. Provides Aesthetic Benefits
Stains offer aesthetic benefits due to the variety of color tones they come in. They can enhance the appearance of your deck by providing a new and refreshed look, so always choose the best stains.
By applying a solid deck stain, you can add a touch of style and elegance to your outdoor space, making it more visually appealing. Ultimately, the staining process can give your pressure-treated decks a brand-new look that is beautiful and inviting.
4. Enhances Your Wood’s Natural Grain & Color
Staining your deck can also enhance its natural beauty and add a stylish touch. There are many deck stains available, and each stain can accentuate the color and natural grain of the wood in a unique way.
Whether you prefer a dark and rich finish or a lighter, more natural appearance, there are many stain options to choose from that can meet your specific preferences.
5. Gives Wood Extra Protection from Wear and Tear
Wooden decks are subject to frequent use, including heavy foot traffic and furniture placement, which can cause wear and tear over time. To provide your deck with additional protection from these factors, staining is an excellent option.
A high-quality deck wood stain can create a sturdy and long-lasting surface that can withstand significant abuse. However, it’s crucial to apply the stain during the appropriate time and weather conditions to achieve the best possible results.
Also Read: Best Deck Stain Applicators
Our Top Pick For a Deck Stain for Pressure-Treated Wood:
DEFY Extreme Semi-Transparent Wood Stain
The DEFY Extreme Wood Stain is an ideal option if you want a high-quality deck stain that provides long-lasting protection to your pressure-treated wood and maintains its appearance for many years.
This is the best deck stain for pressure-treated wood for safeguarding your deck and keeping it in good condition, all while staying within a reasonable price range.
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