When it comes to exterior painting, many homeowners have a choice to make: should they stain their deck or seal it? Both methods have different purposes and benefits, and it can be tough to decide which one is right for your home.
What Is A Deck Sealer?
A deck sealer is a clear coat applied to the wood’s surface. It is designed to protect the wood from weathering, UV rays, and other environmental elements. The sealer doesn’t work like staining on wood. Sealer is mainly used to protect the wood from weathering, while stain adds color and protection.
It’s important to note that sealer needs to be reapplied more often than stain – about every one to two years.
What Is A Deck Stain?
A deck stain is a pigmented product that goes on top of the wood. It can change the color of your deck or enhance the natural color. Stain soaks into the wood grain and gives it a new color, while sealer just sits on top of the wood.
This means that if you want to change the color of your wood, you’ll need to use a stain. Stain can last anywhere from two to five years before it needs to be reapplied, depending on the type of stain and how well it’s been maintained.
Deck Sealing vs. Staining
Sealing your deck will protect it from water damage, sun damage, and wear and tear, whereas staining is used to change the color.
Pros of Sealing your Deck:
- Leaves the natural color of the wood.
- Repels water that sits on the surface.
- It protects and maintains wood against the elements.
- It protects surfaces and structures from deterioration and extends their life.
Pros of Staining Your Deck:
- Lasting up to 5 years
- Resistant to rust, mildew, and mold
- Protects from UV and sun damage
- Several color and tint options are available to disguise wood discoloration.
Should You Seal the Wood After Staining?
Staining your deck is a way to change the color or enhance the wood’s natural color and protect it against harmful elements. If you’re happy with the current color, you can just seal it. But if you want to change the color, you’ll need to use a stain. It isn’t suggested to apply a sealer over the stain.
Staining or sealing your deck is an important part of maintaining the exterior of your home. By taking care of your wooden surfaces, you protect your investment and ensure that your deck will last for years!
Are you looking for a high-quality painting service in the area? Look no further than Triangle Pro Painting serving Durham.
We provide the best painting services for residential and commercial properties, and we’re built on a foundation of honesty, integrity, and quality craft. Whether you need exterior painting, fence and deck staining, or concrete staining, we’re here to help. We take pride in our work and always go the extra mile to ensure our customers are happy with the final results. Contact us today or get a free estimate!
