Best Deck Stain for Pressure Treated Wood [Reddit Choices]

Are you looking to buy a deck stain that will protect your wood structures and other valuables? Well, it is not easy to walk into a store and choose the right product right away without the correct information or knowledge and without taking your time to research and analyze the qualities of the products. 

With several deck stains in the market and many continuing to be introduced, your chances of finding yourself in a dilemma and total confusion is high. Regardless of whether you are a pro or an armature, you need help finding the right product. That is why we present you with this expert guide to help you pick the best deck stain for pressure-treated wood more accurately. 

Top 10 Best Deck Stain for Pressure Treated Wood Reviews

Some of the best deck stain for pressure treated wood have always been penetrating semi-transparent and semi-solid. Most of the best stains allow the wood grain to show. If they truly soak and penetrate wood grain, it would still be easy to reapply. But since not all semi-transparent stains penetrate, you should look for an alternative characteristic in a stain that still makes it highly protective and attractive. 

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Therefore, you should take your time, get all the necessary information, process them, and use it well to find the perfect stain for your needs. 

Choosing the right does not only mean finding the product with the best quality. You have to consider many factors, and where there is no time to consider all of them, you have to consider the most important ones. This guide presents to you ten of the best stains for the purpose mentioned above. 

1. Ready Seal 515 5-Gallon – best stain for pressure treated wood.

One of the great qualities of Ready Seal 515 is that it is both a sealer and a stain. It will enhance the natural beauty of your wooden surfaces. Since it is semi-transparent, you will love how it allows the wood’s grain and texture to remain visible. Also, it requires no wet-line application and will blend itself.

The Ready Seal 515 comes with all the necessary elements needed to provide your pressure-treated surfaces with a quality finish. It boasts a certified professional-grade formula that its peers cannot match. Its maintenance procedure is superior to that of its competition. It is easy to apply, and when you are done, the beauty of the final project is undeniable. 

Ready Seal saves time since it is easy to apply to all the consumers. Besides, you can apply it using a brush, roller, or sprayer and the result will still be smooth regardless of the method or process used. This oil-based stain works perfectly with all outdoor wood projects. Hence, it gives wooden structures or surfaces long-lasting protection. It offers impressive water resistance too. 

Pros

• You can apply it in any temperature range.
• Never leaves laps, runs, or streak.
• No primer is needed with this stain.
• Offer broad application methods from rolling, brushing, or spraying.
• You do not have to dilute or thin it before application.

Cons

• It may appear dark when you first apply it but lightens up as nit cures.
• It might require about 14 days to dry up properly.
• Blemishes or mold on the surface of the wood shows through the stain.

2. Varathane 313608 Premium Fast Dry Wood Stain – best deck stain and sealer.

This is the fastest drying stain for pressure-treated wood out there. It takes just one hour to dry properly, which is an impressive time compared to many stains. It is innovatively created to offer protection to wooden structures and is especially meant for wooden surfaces in the interior. This is a high-performing wood stain and has been enhanced with nano pigment particles. You do not even need wood conditioner with this stain. 

Varathane 313608 offers ultimate durability and is brilliantly clear. It will give any wooden surface an expert finish and gives your wooden structure the beauty that would complement the surroundings. This stain creates a perfect color with just a single coat. It will enhance whatever wooden surface you use it on. 

Also, it penetrates deep and penetrates wood pores to seal them perfectly as it stains. You can use it to stain wood furniture, trim, doors, paneling, and cabinets. With this product, you can do justice to every wooden structure or surface you want to protect. It enriches and highlights the natural wood grain. 

Pros

• It dries super-fast and 3 times faster than ordinary stains.
• It’s ideal for application on interior wood structures and surfaces.
• The oil-based formula makes it superior.
• Besides revealing existing beauty in wood, it enhances the looks.

Cons

• The directions on the tin can be misleading.
• The color is a bit darker than what is promised.
• Most of the time, all shades are not available.

3. Minwax 61360444 PolyShades – Stain & Polyurethane – pressure treated wood stains.

This is a versatile strain and can be used on various wood structures, both at home and in commercial places. The Minwax 61360444 would add great beauty to your pressure-treated decks, furniture, and wooden floor when properly used. It delivers the perfect finish that would amplify the beauty of whatever wooden structure, door, floor, or furniture you apply it on. 

The Minwax 61360444 enhances wood grain by beautifying and protecting it. It combines beautiful rich stain color and polyurethane protection, which is long-lasting. Also, you can use it over polyurethane finishes and still get the best results. This also makes it possible for you to change the color of an already finished wood and give it an even richer look. It also saves you the trouble of removing the existing finish first before applying it. 

The Minwax 61360444 is also easy to apply, which means you save a lot of time while applying it. Since it combines staining and protection, you save the times you need to use staining and protection products differently. With just two coats, the result will be magnificent. However, there are times when you may be required to apply more coats. With every single coat, the surface on which it is used gets a rich color, lasting protection, and enhanced wood grain. 

Pros

• Applied in one easy step, and you will be done.
• You can use it over polyurethane finishes.
• Available in gloss and satin finishes.
• It combines beautiful rich stain color with durable polyurethane.
• It reduces application time.

Cons

• You may end up with drips and runs over the surface.
• Incredibly tacky to the touch for some days.
• Slightly unpleasant scent.

4. THOMPSONS WATERSEAL Transparent Waterproofing – stain pressure treated wood.

There are many ways to protect pressure-treated wood, and the THOMPSONS WATERSEAL TH.041851-16 delivers most of them. It will protect your valuable wooden properties from water damage and many other forms of damages. Similarly, it provides fade-resistant color, thanks to advanced polymers. 

If you apply it on your deck or any other wooden surface, the surface’s beauty is automatically enhanced. This makes it stand out more than its peers. The protection promised by the manufacture is what you get when you apply this stain. Besides, it takes just a little time to apply. And once you are done, it dries within no time so that you will not even have to wait to start using the furniture. 

It will enrich the existing color of the surface and improve the general look of the whole place. Whether you apply it to newly treated wood or an old piece of furniture that you want to renovate, the result will be impeccable either way. Also, you can apply it on freshly cleaned damp wood or a completely dry wooden surface. 

Pros 

• It provides a long-lasting enhanced appearance.
• It protects your structures and furniture for longer.
• It gives your wooden surfaces a classy look.
• It dries faster than many of its peers.
• Easy to apply and to maintain for better performance.

Cons

• Lots of runs that are difficult to remove.
• It can be challenging to apply to some surfaces.
• Some are a pasty and dark-colored mess.

5. DEFY Extreme 1 Gallon Semi-Transparent – best exterior wood stain.

This is a water-based semi-transparent wood stain with lots of other innovative features that are only meant to improve its performance and make it safer for both users and the surfaces on which it is used. The DEFY Extreme is friendly to the environment and will cause no harm to any organism. It is a water-based stain that will allow the wood grain to show through. Also, it gives your wooden surfaces a semi-transparent natural matte finish that is very beautiful. 

This DEFY Extreme is one of those highly versatile stains. It is designed to stain wooden decks, sidings, playsets, fences, furniture, outdoor patio, and more. Besides, it is extremely durable, offering quality that lasts. Made with the highest quality resin, DEFY Extreme offers better resistance to darkening and fading. When appropriately applied, it will keep your deck or siding looking great throughout the four seasons. 

Also, it is innovatively created, fortified with zinc, and enhanced with nano-particle technology. Therefore, it will serve as a sunscreen for your wood, with tiny zinc particles dispersed all over the stain to reflect UV rays that can destroy wood fast if given the slightest chance. That way, this stain will prevent premature greying and color loss in your valuable wood structures.  

Pros

• Formulated using innovative Nano-technology.
• It helps retain the natural color of the wood surfaces.
• It protects wood from the harmful effects of UV rays.
• It prevents water from destroying wood.
• It provides long-lasting beauty.

Cons

• Uneven staining.
• Virtually invisible results.
• Newbies may find it a little difficult to apply.

6. Olympic Stain Maximum Wood Stain and Sealer – best oil based deck stain.

Olympic Stain Maximum Wood Stain and Sealer are among the most reliable stains in the market, especially if you search for the best one for a pressure treated wooden deck. It functions as a two-in-one product, serving as both sealer and stain. You will not have to worry about your safety since it is made using some of the safest raw materials. 

The Olympic Stain Maximum Wood Stain and Sealer is 100 percent acrylic resin, which is the component that offers top protection. Hence, it would give your wooden structures a durable finish and lasting protection. It guarantees you deck-enhanced waterproofing and resists the dangerous UV radiation from the sun. This would translate to strengthening and conditioning the wood fibers to give your wood structures a natural beauty that lasts.  

It provides weather-ready applications, allowing greater opportunities to stain when you want and not when the weather dictates. Regardless of when you apply it, it will always give you the same excellent results. You can depend on this stain to protect even the most precious or valuable structures at home and in commercial places. When applying the stain, you can mist the surfaces slightly before using it when the structure is too hot. 

Pros

• Offer top protection from destructive weather elements
• It can be washed easily off the surfaces.
• Easy to apply.
• Both stain and sealant in one.
• It molds and mildew-resistant coating.

Cons

• It leaves a faint yellow sheen.
• The description of the can does not specify if it is water-based or oil-based.
• It May take four coats to get the wood to seal.

7. KILZ L832111 Exterior Waterproofing – best deck sealer for pressure treated wood.

Professional and DIY agents alike have a lot of good things to say about the KILZ L832111. This is an exterior waterproofing stain with the strength to preserve every little quality and beauty in wood. Also, it is semi-transparent and, therefore, almost retains the original look for the wood surface, only enhancing it a little bit to make it look more attractive and appealing to the eye. 

It will protect your wood structures, and valuables from snow, rain, and sunlight, and its 100 percent acrylic formula play the biggest role in delivering that protection. You should apply it to adequately prepared new-to-moderately weathered exterior wood surfaces and unsealed wood surfaces. That means you can apply it on decks, wood patio, railings, shingles, furniture, shakes, and fences. 

It provides a mildew-resistant finish that will stay for many years to come. It offers a coverage of up to 250 sq. ft. for the initial coat and about 500 sq. ft. for the second feet. When applying the stain, let the wood dry first for at least 24 hours before coating it. When you do that, the result will be more satisfying. Just make sure you follow the right procedure and take all the necessary precautions. 

Pros

• Excellent for use on exterior wood.
• It protects your valuable wood structures against water, snow, and sun.
• It maintains the integrity and beauty of wood.
• It protects against mildew and UV rays.
• Suitable for both pros and DIY agents.

Cons

• Texture and thickness like a rubber coating
• The content in the tin can separate and solidify
• May lose its protective quality fast in extreme weather conditions

8. Minwax 630500444 – best rated deck stain for pressure treated wood.

Without proper staining, wood can lose its beauty and quality. That is why you need a stain that will not only protect it but also enhance its beauty. Whether you have a deck, furniture, sidings, or doors that you would love to protect and make more beautiful, the Minwax 630500444 excels at it all. 

It contains UV blockers, which serve the purpose of reducing the sun’s destructive effects. That way, it protects any wooden surface on which it is applied from graying and fading. It also contains special oils that allow the finish to contract and expand with the wood when the temperatures decrease and increase. That way, the finish will not crack due to the expansion or contraction of the wood. 

The Minwax 630500444 protects the wood from rain and moisture by forming a solid barrier on the surfaces. The crystal clear finish is perfect for use over light-colored stains and wood. That also means you can use it on top of another stain so that you do not have to remove the existing stain from the surface before applying this one. 

Pros

• It cleans up easily with warm water.
• It dries quickly.
• It protects the wood against rain and moisture.
• It provides a crystal clear finish.
• Ideal for both interior and exterior wood structures.

Cons

• It has a strong odor.
• According to some users, it peels after some time.
• Formula stains easily.

9. Deck Wood Deck Paint and Sealer  – best stain for deck.

This is an opaque stain, which means it will hide the wood grain completely. That also means it provides maximum protection against fading. When you apply it to your wood structures and valuables, they automatically benefit from this stain’s innovatively-infused protective characteristics. 

So, if you are looking for the right deck stain to apply on your pressure-treated wood, the #1 Deck Wood Deck Paint and Sealer would be an excellent choice. Its innovative formula will protect your wooden structures from UV rays to rain and mold from every destructive weather element. This also makes it ideal for external usage.

Applying #1 Deck Wood Deck Paint and Sealer is also pretty easy. Its application is one of the easiest you can get in any deck stain. When there is a need to clean it up, it will take you little time and effort to get off the surfaces thoroughly. All you need to clean it up is just water and soap. Also, the formula is suitable for all types of wood, including cedar, redwood, hardwood, mahogany, and fir. 

Pros

• The formula that is easy to clean.
• Serves both as a stain and sealer.
• Use on vertical and horizontal wood surfaces.
• Offer five different colors from which to choose.
• Protect wood against harmful weather elements.

Cons

• The formula catches stains easily.
• No matte finish.
• It works, but not so well for those who expect too much.

10. Cabot Semi-Solid Deck & Siding – best pressure treated wood staining.

A lot of good things have been said about this stain. So when I gave it a try, I found out that it is genuinely a fantastic product. It is uniquely formulated for superior performance and protective ability. The Cabot 140.0017437.007 stain penetrates so deep into the wood and would help you provide protection right from deep inside wood where it penetrates. 

The product is also a linseed oil-based stain that gives your projects and wood structures much-needed protection and long-lasting beauty. Also, it highlights the existing beauty in wood’s grain and texture, giving it a distinct pigmented appearance. The Cabot 140.0017437.007 is ideal for use on sidings, decks, and fences.

You will love how this stain dries out well, forming a natural flat finish. It is a single-coat finish that is perfect for recoating an initially semi-transparent structure. Also, it works amazingly well with most kinds of smooth and rough exterior wood structures. You get the chance to experience the magic of a formula that will give your structures and wooden valuables an excellent finish. 

Pros

• It penetrates deep into the wood.
• Versatile in that it works perfectly with all kinds of wood fencing and decking.
• It repels water completely.
• It lasts longer in exterior structures.
• It retains and shows the original structure of wood.

Cons

• Not so suitable for interior projects.
• It doesn’t take the winter as well as other seasons.
• Not as good as the original oil-based product by this company.

How To Choose The Best Deck Stain For Pressure Treated Wood

Pressure-treated wood is famously known for its ability to last. It is a good option for both interior and exterior woodworks. Most people prefer this wood to the ordinary ones. All decks which feature any pressure-treated wood are free from rots. However, you have to stain the wood to protect it from any weather elements. Also, staining the wood provides you with the color of your choice. 

To find the best deck stain for your pressure-treated wood, you must identify how the wood was treated. We will talk more about the wood types and how to get yourself the best deck stain for pressure-treated lumber.

Treated Lumber Categories

Wet treated

This type of lumber is always wet when you buy it. Wet-treated lumber should be left to dry for a period of up to six months. Drying time depends on the weather and the wood conditions. Staining the wood before it completely dries will seal the moisture behind the stain. This will end up causing more issues since the water tries to get out of the wood. Stain the wood immediately; it dries. Over drying makes the wood lose its ability to allow the stain to set.

Water Repellent added

If you need a water repellent added treated lumber, you should always look at the tag and ensure it contains the word thompsonized. In case the product lacks the label, ask the dealer to help you out. You have to be keen when you use any water-based stain on this type of lumber as it does not adhere properly.

Test your wood to know if it contains water. Pour water on it. If the water soaks in it and does not bead, you can stain it. Also, make a small hole on the lumber using a nail. Water bubbles will indicate that it has water. Water-based lumber should be left out to dry.

Kiln-dried pressure treated

In my opinion, this is the best type of treated lumber as you can use it immediately you buy it. It is normally stamped or tagged with ADAT or KDAT; therefore easy to identify. However, do not stain it immediately if a water repellent is added to the pressure treatment course.

Always use semi-transparent and oil-based stain if you are not sure how your lumber was treated.

Preparing Your Deck For Staining

Proper preparation brings good results. Always clean your deck before staining. Cleaning removes all the dirt and obstacles allows the stain to adhere well and evenly. A pressure washer is highly recommended. However, be very careful not to use too much pressure. Apply pressure between 1500 and 2500.

For brand new decks, check on the condition of the lumber. Some contain a slick surface or a green hue which is referred to as mill glaze. In this case, use a 60 to 80 grit screen to sand it, then sweep with a broom. If your deck lacks this substance, feel free to skip this procedure. Consider using a pressure washer.

Use a wood cleaner for decks to clean older woods. This prepares the wood to absorb the stain uniformly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to obtain good results.

Observing the weather condition is important before staining. Avoid direct sunlight when staining the deck. Direct sunlight makes the stain dry quickly, leaving blotchy surfaces and visible lap marks. Allow the stain to dry within temperatures of 50°F and 90°F for at least 24 hours. Plus, the humidity should range between 40%and 70%. Ensure there is no rain for several days.

Be sure that you have the right stain choice. Test the stain on an unnoticeable surface to avoid regrets. Testing saves time and energy. If the stain is not suitable, you can choose another one. Consult with experts if you experience any problems.

Finishes

Here, you have to choose between a stain or a sealer. Both the stain and the sealer are used to protect your deck from harsh elements. It’s upon you to choose what’s best for you. Some people want a finish to make their deck look attractive. Others want something to protect the wood and provide the best balance.

Finishes have a different way of showing the grain. Some hide the most wood grain while others expose it. If you prefer the decks’ natural grains showing, choose a semi-transparent stain or a clearer sealer. Solid stains hide most of the wood grain, although they are durable.

Sealer

A film-forming sealer is a good choice for those who want a high-gloss finish that exposes the woods’ natural grain.

However, the wood tends to turn gray after some time due to the effects of UV rays. If you want to stain or change the color, you have to strip off the sealer. There is no shortcut.

Semi-transparent stain

Semi-transparent stains contain additional pigments to protect the wood from the sun’s UV rays and change the color of the deck. They are quite expensive. A gallon is about 50 dollars or more. You might be forced to reapply the stain every 2-3 years. Sometimes, you have to reapply for it each year.

Solid or opaque

A solid stain is the most durable type of stain. Opaque stains hide the grain of the wood. If you add more coats, it tends to crack and peel, similar to paint.

Let’s Discuss The Wood Type First

Different woods in the market come with different colors, characteristics, density, finishing, and grain. Picking the right type of wood is essential. Understanding the properties of wood before using it is vital. A good quality wood lasts longer than any regular wood. Let’s discuss more on the highlighted wood types below.

The Pressure Treated wood

Pressure-treated wood is a type of wood that has been filled with chemical preservatives to prevent it from insects and rot. The wood is put in a depressurized tank to remove the air and replace it with a preservative. This pressure treatment is the best way to prevent insects and rot.

However, it does not prevent corrosion and weathering. Chromated copper arsenic (CCA) is a commonly used chemical in treating wood. Older pressure-treated wood must be treated with a sealant to prevent exposure to the chemicals. Newly pressure treated should be treated to protect it from corrosion.

Pressure-treated wood is best for outdoor projects. It is free from rot and corrosion; hence it lasts long. Sawdust from pressure-treated wood is irritating to the skin and eyes. Additionally, the chemical preservative tends to leak from the wood at low levels. This could cause problems when used for indoor purposes.

The cedarwood

Cedarwood is a durable hardwood that grows on both the west and east coasts of the USA. There are many types of trees. The eastern and western red cedar trees are the ones commonly used for their woods. Cedar is loved for various reasons.

Cedar trees are naturally insect and weather resistant. The trees produce a strong pleasant smell and are very attractive. Besides, they exist in different colors. There are the rich reddish-brown cedar and a slightly redder color than the cherry wood. The colors tend to vary depending on the growing conditions of the cedar. The color also changes over time when exposed to oxygen and sunlight.

This type of wood is commonly used for outdoor furniture. Cedarwood is the most weather-resistant domestic hardwood. This is an alternative for teak wood which has a high environmental cost. Cedarwood can also be used for indoor purposes, such as blanket chests and molding.

The redwood

The redwood has a heartwood color that can range from light pinkish brown to a deep reddish-brown. The grain is generally straight. Redwood has a low natural luster and coarse texture. Sometimes the grain may be irregular or wavy.

Unlike other woods, this wood lacks resin canals. Earlywood to latewood transition is abrupt. Redwood is rot-resistant hence durable. Wood from old-growth trees is more durable than that from younger trees. When being worked on, redwood produces a distinct smell. It is easy to work with. The wood has a smooth finish and glues easily.

Sawdust from redwood irritates the skin, eyes, and nose. 

This wood is affordable. However, clear wood is quite expensive. Redwood is commonly used in construction lumber, beams, veneer, exterior furniture, trim, and decking. Redwood lumber is very soft and lightweight. It tends to darken when you apply the finish. Furthermore, it is mostly used for outdoor activities as it is moisture resistant. Redwood is easy to find.

Oil-Based Vs Water-Based

Staining is very important when it comes to woodworks. Staining determines the appearance and durability of your workpiece. Most woodworkers find themselves in a dilemma of choosing between oil-based stains and water-based stains. 

There are various factors to consider when choosing the best stain for you. Water and oil-based stains offer different levels of coverage and protection depending on different factors. Wood type, weather exposure, previous wood treatment, among others, are the factors one should consider before choosing any wood stain.

First of all, you have to know the difference between an oil-based stain and a water-based stain. The two are different in how they affect the wood. They have a difference in their drying times and vary in prices. Understanding the disadvantages and advantages of both products is vital to choose the right stain. Both stains will penetrate through your wood to protect it against any harsh elements or weather conditions.

Oil-Based Stain 

These stains tend to be more expensive than water-based stains. Oil-based stain lasts long and is good at wood preservation. There are different methods to be used when applying them. You can roll, spray or brush the color on your piece of wood. 

A paintbrush ensures that the whole surface is well covered and that the stain is uniform. However, this is the longest method. Oil-based stains require very little maintenance as they penetrate the wood deeper and have a thicker seal. Also, they take time to dry hence an even finish.

However, the resins in oil-based stains make them susceptible to mildew and molds. After some time, molds will begin to grow on your deck. this means you have to come up with a way to deal with them. This stain is not the best when working on an urgent task since it takes a long time to dry. Some take more than a day to completely dry.

Water-Based Stain

Water-based stains contain pigment and resin that stick together as the stain dries. The pigments produce dark and uniform colors on a variety of woods, including the hard-to-stain woods. They contain less smell and are easy to clean and dry up so fast. Soap and water are all you need to clean them. Such stains spread quickly and are easy to blend. Besides, the stain is not flammable and is resistant to mildew and mold.

The disadvantage of this stain is that it lifts the grain. The wood grain raises because the wood can draw some water from the stain, making it swell. This leads to a slightly rough finish after the stain dries. Plus, you have to apply several layers of the stain. Lightly sand the deck after staining. Apply a clear water-based coating for neatness. This helps do away with the swellings and obtain a smooth finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict

It may take you more time than you anticipate to figure out which is the best deck stain for pressure treated wood. This article may seem to provide extra information, but that is because it does. You need to know everything in detail to be able to make the right choice. 

You should take your time to go through every stain’s features and compare the various products presented here to come up with the one that most appeals to you. When you find the perfect stain for your projects, it will be worth the trouble. This guide will simplify things and help you find the best choice.