Decks are a beautiful addition to your outdoor living space, providing a comfortable and functional area you can use for entertaining and relaxing. But because they are exposed to the elements, they require periodic maintenance. One of the key elements in this upkeep is the type of sealant used to protect the wood. Homeowners often struggle with the choice between paint and wood stain to protect their decks. Here, the team from Hamilton, OH’s premier supplier of building materials, Butler County Lumber Company, provides a guide to the benefits and drawbacks of each.

The Pros & Cons of Staining & Painting Your Deck

Staining

A stain lets the natural patterns and beauty of the underlying wood come through, highlighting the building materials without covering them up. It provides a waterproof layer to protect the wood from cracking, warping, and rotting, and you can choose from a variety of tones and hues to match your home and outdoor space. 

Stains do have a few disadvantages. Most need to be reapplied every two to three years, although oil-based stains may last a bit longer. If the deck’s wood is in poor shape, stains aren’t very effective for covering up cracks, holes, or deep grooves. Finally, it doesn’t provide a lot of protection against the harmful UV rays of the sun, which cause fading and discoloration.

Painting

If you want to completely change the color of your deck’s underlying building materials, then paint is the way the go. You can opt for bolder and brighter colors when using paint since it will cover the wood. Because it’s thicker than stain, it can be used to fill in holes and flaws, which makes it an attractive option for older decks. When applied by professionals, paint can last up to 10 years and require just a few touch-ups.

Some things to keep in mind with deck paint include increased possibility for water to pool underneath the paint layer, leading to moisture that can damage the wood. It also requires more prep work, as the lumber will need to be cleaned and stripped for the paint to adhere properly. And if you regret your choice, it’s difficult to switch back to stain or another paint color.

If you want to refresh your deck with stain or paint, turn to the experts at Butler County Lumber Company. As suppliers of a variety of quality building materials for any project, you’ll find just what you need to complement your home. Serving the Greater Hamilton and Cincinnati areas for more than 100 years, this family-owned business has a committed team with the experience and knowledge to serve your construction needs. To speak with a friendly representative, call (513) 896-6660 or visit them online to learn more.