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Painting or Staining? Step 2: Make a choice

Once you’ve confirmed your deck can, in fact, be painted or stained, it’s time to consider the pros and cons of each
Your Guide to Deck Revitalization product.

PAINT PROS PAINT CONS
Best for decks that don’t get a lot of foot traffic, especially Requires more prep, including layers of preservative and
courtesy REALTOR.ca Team
N othing embodies summertime in Canada more than hanging out on your deck, grilling, sipping cold drinks, since paint can be slippery primer
Hides the wood grain and imperfections
Takes longer to cover entire deck
and making memories with family and friends.
Comes in a variety of colours and finishes
Thicker consistency is more likely to blot
Like other areas of your home, your deck does need to be cared for regularly to ensure it lasts long enough to
keep the good times rolling season after season. Keeping your deck in tip-top condition is another way to maintain Easy to maintain and keep clean Difficult to change from paint to stain
curb appeal—just ask a REALTOR®! Can last 10 years or longer Must be coated with a clear sealer
More resistant to fading caused by heat and ultraviolet
In addition to keeping your deck free from dirt and debris, (UV) rays
you should consider painting or staining it. The added layer of
product protects your deck from moisture, mould, bugs, sun, STAIN PROS STAIN CONS
and other harsh elements. Changing the colour of the wood is Great for decks that receive lots of foot traffic More prone to fading caused by heat and UV rays
also an easy way to revitalize your deck without a total overhaul.
More budget-friendly per gallon Colour options are limited
Let’s look at how you can paint or stain on your own (or with Gives a natural look and enhances the wood grain More difficult to maintain and keep clean
some friends!) and end up with a new look you’ll love for the Easy to apply
entire summer.
Can be easily painted over
Painting versus staining Lighter consistency applies evenly and is less likely to
Not all decks are made equal. You’ll need to brush up on your blot
knowledge of wood boards, paints, and stains to make sure Available in two-in-one stain and stealer formula
your deck refurbishing or rebuilding project is a success. Can last up to eight years

“Making a choice between paint and stain isn’t just a matter of Step 3: Select a product
preference. Many factors, including wood type, weather, foot By now, you should know what your deck needs, and all that remains is to purchase the paint or stain. In terms of cost,
traffic, budget, and style come into play,” says Emmett Wallace, one 3.7-litre can of deck stain or paint can range from $16 to $66, depending on the brand, transparency, and retailer.
owner of Dub’s Construction, which specializes in indoor and For a deck about 550 square feet in size, you’ll need approximately two cans to complete the job.
outdoor home renovations.
Let’s explore the different types of products you’ll encounter at the hardware store.
Below are four key steps to guide your summer deck revival project.
Paint types
Step 1: Confirm the material If you opt for paint based on your wood type and maintenance needs, you should consider a product formulated for
Before you decide between paint or stain, you should determine what material your deck is made from as not all outdoor use. This type of paint will usually contain UV protectants and other additives to protect the surface long
materials can be painted or stained. term. Pick an oil-based paint best suited for floors. Oil paint protects the deck from moisture and has a longer lifespan

Wood types than water-based paint.
Cedar, redwood pine, and treated lumber are the most common materials for decks. These woods take paint and stain Be sure to grab a preservative and primer to protect the wood, and that you have a smooth base to paint over. You’ll
well, and they are resistant to rot. Cedar and redwood are pricier than their counterparts, so consider using stain on also need a polyurethane sealer to keep the paint intact.
them if you want to maintain the visual integrity of the wood. Painting treated lumber is a more affordable option Stain types
with more colour choices.
Stains come in a range of pigments, from transparent to opaque. The higher the opacity, the more durable the stain.
Non-wood types High-pigment stains provide protection from moisture and UV damage. Many stain brands are formulated with
Vinyl, IPE, composite, and recycled plastic decks are gaining in popularity. These non-wood materials are easy to preservatives, so you don’t need additional primer. You may require a clear sealer, but opting for a two-in-one product
maintain and come in several colours—though they can often carry a heftier price tag than wood. The con? They can save you that final step.
don’t accept stain or paint. If you’re unsure about your deck’s material, call in a professional to help.

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