Key takeaways
- Stain soaks into the wood and shows the grain.
- Paint forms an opaque film that covers more.
- In both cases, preparation decides how long it lasts.
Stain
- Soaks into the wood and keeps its natural look.
- Comes in clear, semi-transparent and solid versions.
- Wears gradually: upkeep is often a fresh coat without stripping everything.
Paint
- Forms an opaque film that hides grain and flaws.
- Offers a wide choice of colours.
- When it peels, you must scrape and prepare before repainting.
Preparation
In both cases, the wood must be clean, dry and in good condition. Wash, let dry, sand as needed and replace rotten boards. A damp surface prevents adhesion.
How to choose
To keep the charm of wood and ease upkeep, stain is often preferred. For a bold colour or to hide worn wood, paint suits better. Ask for advice based on the state of your deck.
Frequently asked questions
- Can you stain over paint?
- No, stain has to soak into the wood. The paint must be removed first.
- When should stain be applied?
- On dry wood, in moderate weather, following the conditions on the product.
