Deck Stains

Deck Stains are exterior wood coatings that are used primarily for the protection and enhancement of exterior decking. Deck Stains are also known as: Deck Sealers, Deck Coatings, Deck Finishes, and Deck Paints. Deck stain's "sealing" abilities will protect the wood from water absorption, environmental stains, and household spills. The "stain" will enhance the natural wood tones by adding different colors or pigments. Deck stains will minimize rotting and decay of the wood preserving the wood lignin and strengthening the cellular structure. Composed of Trans Oxides and Resins, deck stains will prolong the natural oxidation (graying) of the wood by "absorbing" the Ultra Violet Radiation.

There are many different types of Decking Stains available to consumers.

1. Solid or Opaque Deck Stains are heavily pigmented. They will cover the wood similar to a paint and are considered film-forming in the fact that they do not penetrate completely into the wood. They offer the best UV Protection but are prone to wear and peeling. Colors can be tinted similar to a paint.

2. Semi-Solid Deck Stains are very high in pigment with a slight transparency. Offers exceptional UV protection and better penetration then a Opaque Stain. Typically very rich or dark in color due to the high pigment.

3. Semi-Transparent Deck Stains are the most popular as they offering great UV protection and penetration. Colors are more natural looking.

4. Transparent Deck Stains offer the lowest amount of UV protection since they contain the least amount of pigment. Penetration into the wood is superb as well. Colors are very natural looking.

Once the finish breaks down from natural weathering the wood will require another application. The longevity of deck stains typically on average range from 1–3 years on horizontal surfaces and 2–4 years on vertical surfaces before another coat should be applied.

Deck Stains can be applied to a variety of decking materials. Cedar, Pressure-Treated Wood, Redwood, and Hardwoods are some of the popular types.

from Wikipedia