Staining your deck will preserve and often enhance the natural look of the wood on your deck. A transparent deck stain will allow you to see the natural wood grain through the stain. The transparent deck stain soaks into the wood and is typically an oil based product. A color chart can be found here. There are many brands of transparent deck stains on the market – it is important to learn what the professional deck staining companies are using versus what consumers are purchasing. A consumer will purchase what is located at the local box store. A professional will purchase the product that will have the best maintenance schedule and the most effective protection. Just because it is sold at a box store does not mean that it is a good product.

A solid stain will give you that uniform look you would get from paint, but with a more natural look. Semi-Transparent and Semi-Solid deck stains should be used with caution. The maintenance of both these products after being applied can be very difficult, time consuming and expensive. In some cases, a solid stain will need to be used to cover up the original application. Speak with a professional deck staining company or technician to get more information in order to make an informed decision.