Paint or Stain? How to Choose the Best Finish for Your Deck
Your deck is a part of your living space and a great place to relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors. But always being exposed to sun, rain, and temperature changes can take a toll on the unprotected wood. A fresh coat of paint or stain can work wonders to protect and improve the look of your outdoor space. But which finish is right for you?
Let's take a walk through the important differences between painting and staining so that you can make the best choice for your deck.
How it Looks
Stain lets the natural grain and texture of the wood show through, creating a more rustic, and natural look. It comes in transparent to semi-solid opacities that add to the natural beauty of the wood. Paint, on the other hand, gives a completely opaque, uniform color that hides any imperfections and comes in a wider variety of color choices. When making your choice, consider whether you want to show or hide the natural grain and texture of the wood.
Applying It
Staining is generally easier and faster to apply than paint. After cleaning and prepping the surface, stains can usually be applied in a single coat. Paint normally needs more preparation, requires priming, and usually needs at least two coats for even coverage. However, because paint is thicker, it can help fill in small cracks and create a smoother surface.
How Long Will It Last?
Paint tends to be more durable than stain, and often lasts 10 years or more before it needs to be reapplied. Stain usually has to be reapplied every 2-8 years, depending on how opaque the stain is and the quality. That being said, paint is more likely to chip and peel, while stain tends to fade more gradually over time. Make sure to think about your local climate and how much wear and tear your deck goes through.
Taking Care of the Deck
Painted surfaces are generally easier to clean, as dirt and debris has nowhere to collect on the smooth finish. Stained decks may need to be cleaned more often to stop dirt from building up in the wood grain. When it's time to refinish your deck, stained decks can often be recoated without needing any heavy prep work. Painted decks may need to be fully stripped of all paint before it can be repainted, which can be super hard work.
How Much Will It Cost Now And Later?
Stain is usually less expensive upfront, as you need to buy less materials and don’t usually need to hire someone to apply it. Paint typically costs more when you first apply it because you’ll need to buy primer and apply multiple coats. However, because paint lasts longer it might make it the more cost-effective choice in the long run. You need to think about both the upfront and future costs when deciding which choice is best for you.
Can You Change Your Mind?
It's pretty easy to switch from a stained finish to paint - simply clean the surface, apply primer, and paint. However, going from paint to stain is much more difficult, as all of the old paint must be completely removed so that the stain can penetrate the wood. If you like to change things up often, stain is definitely the more flexible option.
Think About What You Want
Both paint and stain have their benefits for protecting and improving the appearance of your deck. Think about your priorities - do you want a natural wood look or are you more interested in bold color options? Do you want something that’s easy to apply, or are you willing to put in more work for a longer-lasting finish? By weighing these factors against your specific needs and wants, you can choose the perfect finish to protect your deck.
Remember, whichever option you choose, proper preparation and application are the only way to get the best results. Don't hesitate to meet with a professional if you're not sure about tackling the project yourself. With the right finish and care, your deck will be ready for you to enjoy for years to come!