The Paint Shop pros have traded summer secrets and decided on the single most useful piece of advice for staining your deck. Get it done right, once and for all. Then, enjoy the summer working on your colour instead.
Best for: wood siding, raised decks and deck railings
On Floorboards:
Use Alkyd Stain to Combat Moisture
Alkyd (or oil-based) stains combat moisture the best. Ground level decks, lawn furniture, and even fences are susceptible to moisture from the ground, and are best covered in an alkyd stain for increased durability.
Use Semi-Transparent to Hide Wear
Solid stains tend not to hold up as well to heavy foot traffic. Consider a transparent or semi-transparent stain for floorboards and handrails, to minimize (and disguise) wear and tear.
Best for: low decks, fences and lawn furniture
On Railings:
Use Latex Stain for Sun Protection
For raised surfaces or decks built high off the ground, a latex (or water-based) stain will protect surfaces from exposure to the sun.
Play with Solid Colour Here Instead
Solid colours are best where less maintenance is required. Inject your exterior with a colour pop on deck railings where it won’t have to stand up to as much use.
