Best Deck Stain

Annabelle Evans

By Annabelle Evans

| Updated 3 Days Ago

  • Deck stains not only protect outdoor wood surfaces but also enhance their natural beauty, safeguarding decks from moisture, UV rays, and wear while highlighting the wood grain. A high-quality deck stain can significantly extend the life of your deck and keep it looking fresh for years. With a wide variety of options, including water-based or oil-based formulas, and choices between clear, semi-transparent, and solid colors, the right stain depends on the desired appearance and how much maintenance you’re willing to commit to. Key factors to consider include durability, protection against moisture and sun damage, and ease of application. We tested numerous deck stains to find the best ones that provide long-lasting protection and aesthetic appeal.

  • Ready Seal Cedar Stain

    10

    We think this easy-to-use stain is a great choice for most outdoor wood projects due to its simple application and natural finish.

    10

    We think this easy-to-use stain is a great choice for most outdoor wood projects due to its simple application and natural finish.

    Pros

    • No primer needed
    • Can be applied in any temperature
    • Blends easily without streaks

    Cons

    • Takes time to reach true color
    • Not suitable for painted surfaces
    • Can’t be used in California

    We tried this Ready Seal stain on our backyard deck and were impressed by how simple it was to apply. The oil-based formula went on smoothly without any need for back-brushing. We liked that we could use a sprayer, roller, or brush to put it on.

    One thing we noticed is that the stain looks very dark when first applied. It took about two weeks to reach its final color, which ended up being a nice, natural cedar tone that really brought out the wood grain.

    The stain did a good job protecting our deck from sun damage and moisture. We’ve used it through a few seasons now, and it’s held up well. When it’s time to reapply, we won’t need to sand or strip the old coat off. That’s a big plus in our book.

  • KILZ Cedar Wood Stain

    9.7

    We recommend this KILZ Cedar Wood Stain for its easy application, great coverage, and long-lasting protection.

    9.7

    We recommend this KILZ Cedar Wood Stain for its easy application, great coverage, and long-lasting protection.

    Pros

    • Simple soap and water cleanup
    • Excellent coverage and finish
    • Waterproof and durable

    Cons

    • May need two coats for best results
    • Limited color options
    • Can be pricey compared to some alternatives

    We tried out this KILZ Cedar Wood Stain on an old deck, and we were impressed with how easy it was to apply. The stain went on smoothly with both a brush and roller. It didn’t have a strong smell, which was nice while we worked.

    After two coats, the finish looked great. The cedar color added warmth to the wood without hiding its natural grain. We liked how it beaded up water after it rained, showing it was doing its job to protect the deck.

    We found the cleanup to be super easy since it’s water-based. No need for harsh chemicals – just soap and water did the trick. While it costs a bit more than some other stains, we think the quality and durability make it worth it. The coverage was also good, with one gallon covering about 250-400 square feet.

  • #1 Deck Premium Wood Stain

    9.5

    We recommend this stain for its easy application, UV protection, and ability to work on damp wood.

    9.5

    We recommend this stain for its easy application, UV protection, and ability to work on damp wood.

    Pros

    • Works on damp wood
    • Protects against UV rays
    • Easy to apply

    Cons

    • May need multiple coats
    • Limited color options
    • Can be pricey for large projects

    We tried this stain on our old deck and were happy with the results. The light walnut color gave the wood a fresh look without hiding its natural grain. It went on smoothly and dried quickly, which was great for our busy schedule.

    One thing we liked was how it worked on damp wood. We didn’t have to wait long after cleaning the deck to start staining. This saved us a lot of time. The stain also seemed to soak in well, which we think will help it last longer.

    We noticed it did a good job blocking sun damage. After a few months, the color still looked fresh. The flat finish gave the deck a nice, natural look. We used it on some outdoor chairs too, and it worked just as well there. While it’s not the cheapest option, we think it’s worth it for how well it protects and how easy it is to use.

  • Thompson’s Semi-Transparent Stain

    9.4

    We think this waterproofing wood stain is a solid choice for protecting and enhancing outdoor wood surfaces.

    9.4

    We think this waterproofing wood stain is a solid choice for protecting and enhancing outdoor wood surfaces.

    Pros

    • Easy to apply
    • Resists fading and UV damage
    • Can be used on damp or dry wood

    Cons

    • May need yearly reapplication
    • Limited color options
    • Can be messy to work with

    We tried out Thompson’s WaterSeal Semi-Transparent Stain on our backyard deck, and we were pretty happy with the results. The stain went on smoothly and evenly, even in areas where the wood was still a bit damp from a recent rain. We liked how it brought out the natural texture of the wood while adding a nice, subtle color.

    One thing we really appreciated was how quick and easy it was to apply. We used a roller for most of the deck and a brush for tighter spots. The stain dried faster than we expected, which meant we could enjoy our newly refreshed deck sooner.

    After a few months of heavy use and some rough weather, we noticed the deck still looked great. The water-beading effect was still going strong, and the color hadn’t faded much at all. We did spot a few areas that might need a touch-up next year, but that’s pretty normal for deck stains. All in all, we think this Thompson’s stain is a good pick for DIY-ers who want to protect their outdoor wood without a lot of fuss.

  • Olympic Maximum Redwood Stain

    9.3

    We recommend this Olympic Maximum stain for its versatile application and durable protection.

    9.3

    We recommend this Olympic Maximum stain for its versatile application and durable protection.

    Pros

    • Can be applied in various weather conditions
    • Protects against UV damage and moisture
    • Ready for rain in just 8 hours

    Cons

    • Color may appear more orange than expected
    • Requires careful application for even coverage
    • May need multiple coats for best results

    We tested the Olympic Maximum Redwood Semi-Transparent Stain on our deck and were impressed by its ease of use. The weather-ready formula let us stain our deck without waiting for perfect conditions. We applied it on a cool fall day and it dried quickly.

    The stain’s SunBlock UV defense and waterproofing features stood out to us. After a few rainy days, we noticed the water beading up on the deck surface, showing its effectiveness. The semi-transparent finish gave our wood a rich, warm tone while still showing the natural grain.

    We found the scuff guard technology helpful for high-traffic areas. The stain held up well to foot traffic and didn’t show scratches easily. One gallon covered about 400 square feet, which was enough for our small deck with one coat. For larger projects or darker wood, you might need more.

  • DEFY Essential Wood Stain

    9.1

    We think this semi-transparent wood stain is a solid choice for budget-conscious homeowners looking to protect and beautify their outdoor wood surfaces.

    9.1

    We think this semi-transparent wood stain is a solid choice for budget-conscious homeowners looking to protect and beautify their outdoor wood surfaces.

    Pros

    • Easy to apply and quick-drying
    • Waterproofs and protects wood
    • Allows wood grain to show through

    Cons

    • May require more frequent reapplication
    • Limited color options
    • Can be messy to work with

    We tried DEFY Essential Wood Stain on our test deck and were pleased with the results. The stain went on smoothly with a brush and roller. It dried faster than we expected, which let us finish the job quickly.

    The semi-transparent finish gave our deck a nice, natural look. We could still see the wood grain, but the color added a fresh, updated feel. After a few rainy days, we noticed water beading up on the surface, showing it was working to keep moisture out.

    We did find the stain a bit thin and drippy during application. It’s best to work in small sections and have a cloth handy to wipe up spills. While it protected our deck well in the short term, we’re not sure how long it will last before needing a new coat. For the price, though, we think it’s a good value for DIY deck care.

  • Seal-Once Marine Wood Sealer

    9

    We recommend this sealer for its effective water protection and easy application, making it a solid choice for marine wood surfaces.

    9

    We recommend this sealer for its effective water protection and easy application, making it a solid choice for marine wood surfaces.

    Pros

    • Easy to apply and clean up
    • Creates a water-resistant barrier
    • Safe for use over open water

    Cons

    • May need multiple coats
    • Slight sheen on some surfaces
    • Mixed long-term durability reports

    We tested the Seal-Once Marine Wood Sealer on a variety of surfaces, and it left us impressed. The water-based formula went on smoothly and dried quickly. We noticed it didn’t change the wood color much, which is great if you want to keep the natural look.

    One thing we liked was how it beaded water right away. After applying it to our dock, we saw raindrops roll off instead of soaking in. It’s nice to know it’s safe for aquatic life too, since it’s made for use near water.

    We found it worked well on different types of wood. Our cedar bench and pine deck both took the sealer nicely. It did leave a slight shine on some surfaces, which you might or might not want. We needed two coats for the best protection, but it was worth the extra time.

  • Thompson’s Clear Waterproofer

    8.7

    We think Thompson’s Clear Waterproofer is a solid choice for protecting outdoor wood and other surfaces, offering good value and easy application.

    8.7

    We think Thompson’s Clear Waterproofer is a solid choice for protecting outdoor wood and other surfaces, offering good value and easy application.

    Pros

    • Works on wood, concrete, and brick
    • Clear finish enhances natural color
    • Easy to apply

    Cons

    • May not penetrate deeply on some woods
    • Can be tacky if over-applied
    • Limited color options

    We recently tried Thompson’s Clear Waterproofer on a backyard deck. The product went on smoothly with a roller, and we liked how it brought out the wood’s natural grain. It dried pretty fast, which was nice on a warm day.

    One thing we noticed was that it didn’t soak into denser woods as much as we hoped. For best results, we suggest doing a test patch first. The clear finish is great if you want to keep the wood’s look, but some folks might prefer a tinted option for more color.

    We found it worked well on our concrete patio too. It beaded up water nicely after it cured. Just be careful not to over-apply, as this can lead to a sticky surface. Overall, we think it’s a good pick for DIY projects, especially if you’re new to staining or sealing.

  • DEFY Extreme Wood Stain

    8.7

    We think DEFY Extreme is a top choice for protecting and enhancing outdoor wood surfaces due to its durability and ease of use.

    8.7

    We think DEFY Extreme is a top choice for protecting and enhancing outdoor wood surfaces due to its durability and ease of use.

    Pros

    • Strong UV protection
    • Water-based formula
    • Easy to apply and clean up

    Cons

    • Pricier than some alternatives
    • May need reapplication after a few years
    • Limited color options

    We tested DEFY Extreme on our old deck, and we were impressed with the results. The semi-transparent cedar tone brought out the wood grain beautifully while providing a protective layer against the sun and rain.

    Applying the stain was a breeze. We used a pump sprayer, which made the job quick and easy. The water-based formula didn’t have a strong smell, and cleanup was simple with just soap and water.

    One thing we really liked was how the stain soaked into the wood instead of sitting on top. This means it won’t peel or flake off like some other stains we’ve tried. After a few rainstorms, we noticed that water still beaded up on the surface, showing its water-repellent properties were working well.

    While it’s not the cheapest option out there, we think the quality justifies the price. Our deck looks great and feels protected. If you’re looking for a reliable wood stain that’s easy to use and long-lasting, DEFY Extreme is worth checking out.

  • Armstrong-Clark Wood Stain

    8.6

    We recommend this wood stain for its easy application and long-lasting protection.

    8.6

    We recommend this wood stain for its easy application and long-lasting protection.

    Pros

    • Easy to apply in direct sunlight
    • No peeling or cracking
    • Can be exposed to rain after absorption

    Cons

    • Limited color options for exotic woods
    • May require multiple coats
    • Higher price point than some competitors

    We recently tried the Armstrong-Clark Wood Stain on our old deck, and we were impressed with how easy it was to use. The oil-based formula went on smoothly, even in the middle of a hot day. We didn’t have to worry about the sun drying it too quickly or causing uneven application.

    One thing we really liked was how the stain penetrated the wood. It seemed to soak in and rejuvenate our weathered deck boards. After it dried, we noticed the wood looked refreshed and felt smoother to the touch. The natural tone we chose brought out the grain nicely without hiding the wood’s character.

    We found that the stain dried pretty quickly. It was dry to the touch in a few hours, and we didn’t have to stress when it rained the next day. The water beaded up nicely on the surface, showing that the stain was doing its job to protect the wood. We think this stain will help our deck last longer and look better with less upkeep.

Buying Guide

When shopping for deck stain, we recommend focusing on a few key factors.

Type of Stain

There are four main types to consider:

  • Clear sealer
  • Semi-transparent stain
  • Solid stain
  • Paint

Clear sealers show off the wood grain but offer less protection. Solid stains provide the most coverage and UV protection.

Color

We suggest picking a color that complements your home’s exterior. Lighter colors can help keep your deck cooler in summer.

Durability

Look for stains rated to last 2-3 years or more. Oil-based stains tend to penetrate deeper but may require more upkeep.

Application Method

Some stains are best applied with a roller or brush, while others work well in sprayers. Think about what tools you have and your comfort level.

VOC Content

Low-VOC stains are better for the environment and have less odor. This is especially important for enclosed spaces.

Wood Type

Different stains work better on certain wood types. Make sure to choose one compatible with your specific decking material.

By weighing these factors, we can find a deck stain that meets our needs and keeps our outdoor space looking great for years to come.