Deck Stain
Deck stain and sealer in one step, from the brands contractors trust: TWP, Sikkens ProLuxe, Penofin, Ready Seal and more. Not sure which one? Jump to our deck stain buying guide.
Deck Stain Buying Guide
The Stain Depot carries deck stain and sealer from the brands contractors trust: TWP, Sikkens / PPG ProLuxe, Penofin, Ready Seal, Messmer's, Cabot, Expert Stain & Seal, DeckWise, Wolman and more. Most are penetrating oil stains that stain and seal in one step, so they won't peel. Order deck stain online in gallons, multi-packs and 5 gallon pails. Orders placed before 4pm ET ship the same day, with free shipping.
Shop Deck Stain by Brand
| Brand | Best for |
|---|
| TWP | Oil-based penetrating deck and fence stain in three series, including low-VOC TWP 1500 and 200 |
| Sikkens / PPG ProLuxe | Cetol SRD RE for decks and siding, plus Cetol DEK and log home systems |
| Penofin | Brazilian rosewood oil stains: Red Label, Blue Label, Stain & Sealer, Hardwood and plant-based Verde |
| Ready Seal | Stain and sealer in one with no back brushing and no lap marks |
| Messmer's | UV Plus deck stain and UV Plus for Hardwoods, including low-VOC versions |
| Cabot Australian Timber Oil | Oil finish for decks and hardwoods, in standard and low-VOC formulas |
| Expert Stain & Seal | Transparent, semi-transparent and semi-solid deck and fence stain |
| DeckWise | Ipe Oil for ipe, cumaru and other exotic hardwood decks |
| Wolman F&P | One-coat wood finish and preservative |
| Vermont Natural Coatings | Non-toxic, plant-based PolyWhey exterior stain |
Also see: Hardwood deck stain | Low VOC deck stains for VOC-regulated states | Deck cleaners and brighteners
Deck Stain vs Sealer: Do You Need Both?
For most decks, no. The deck stains we carry are stain and sealer in one. They soak into the wood, add color and UV protection, and seal it against water, so you don't need a separate deck sealer on top. A clear deck sealer or sealant gives water protection but little UV protection, so the wood still turns gray. A tinted, semi-transparent deck stain and sealer protects better and lasts longer.
Differences Between Stain Types
Every wood deck stain falls into a few basic types:
- Clear and transparent: show the most wood grain with a light deck stain tone. They need recoating more often.
- Semi-transparent: the most popular deck stain. Enough pigment for strong UV protection while the grain still shows.
- Semi-solid: more color and coverage, good for older or weathered decks.
- Oil-based penetrating: soaks in instead of forming a film, so it won't crack or peel. Most brands we carry are in this group.
- Low VOC and water-based: required in some states. See our low VOC stains.
Longest Lasting Deck Stain and Sealer: What to Expect
Decks take more sun and foot traffic than any other wood, so every deck stain wears faster on the floor than on railings, fences or siding. Plan on a maintenance coat about every 1-2 years on a deck floor, depending on the product, color and climate. Darker, more pigmented stains generally last longer than clear or transparent ones. Because penetrating stains don't peel, recoating is easy: clean the deck and apply a fresh coat without stripping.
Waterproof and UV-Resistant Deck Stain
A good deck stain and sealer waterproofs the wood so it doesn't absorb rain and swell, and it blocks UV so the wood doesn't turn gray. Look for a penetrating stain with UV-blocking pigments and mildew resistance, especially in damp or shady spots.
How to Choose the Perfect Deck Stain
- Your wood: pressure-treated pine and cedar take most deck stains. Dense hardwoods like ipe need a hardwood deck stain. Read the best stain for pressure-treated decks.
- Your state: if you live in a VOC-regulated state, choose a low VOC deck stain.
- The look: transparent for the most natural wood, semi-transparent for color plus protection, semi-solid for older wood.
- Maintenance: for a low-maintenance deck stain, pick a penetrating oil you can recoat without stripping.
Application Tips for Lasting Results
- Clean and brighten first with a deck cleaner and brightener, then let the wood dry completely, usually at least 2 days.
- Let new pressure-treated wood dry out before staining. Most brands recommend waiting several months.
- Don't over-apply. Extra stain that doesn't soak in stays sticky. Follow each brand's directions on wiping or back brushing.
- Watch the weather. Apply in mild temperatures with no rain in the forecast. Each product page lists its dry time.
Deck Stain Pricing
Deck stain prices vary by brand, formula and size. Buying a 2, 3 or 4 gallon pack or a 5 gallon pail lowers your cost per gallon, and every deck stain for sale on our site ships free. Not sure how much to buy? Use our deck stain coverage guide.
Deck Stain FAQ
Do I need a separate deck sealer?
Not with the deck stains we carry. They're stain and sealer in one.
What is the longest lasting deck stain?
On a deck floor, expect about 1-2 years before a maintenance coat with most stains. Pigmented, penetrating stains last longest and are the easiest to maintain.
Will deck stain peel?
Penetrating oil stains like TWP, Penofin, Ready Seal and Sikkens Cetol SRD soak into the wood and don't form a film, so they don't peel.
Can I use deck stain on fences and siding?
Yes. Most deck stains also work on fences and siding, and they last longer on vertical wood.
Where can I buy deck stain online?
Right here at The Stain Depot. Orders placed before 4pm ET ship the same day, with free shipping. Questions? Email Sales@TheStainDepot.com.
