Water Based Vs Oil Based Deck Stain
Choosing between water based vs oil based deck stain can be hard. A fact is, the type of stain you pick affects your deck’s look and lifespan. This article breaks down the differences, pros, and cons to help you decide.
Read on for insights.
Key Takeaways
- Water-based stains dry fast and are easy to clean with soap and water. They have less smell and work better in the sun without fading.
- Oil-based stains soak into wood better, giving a richer color that lasts longer. They protect well against moisture but can be bad for the environment.
- Water-based stains are safer for the planet because they have fewer harmful chemicals. But they might not sink into wood as deeply as oil-based ones do.
- Oil stains need more time to dry and might need more coats over time. Yet, they offer strong protection for your deck.
- Picking between water or oil-based stain depends on what you want most: quick drying and easy cleanup or deeper color and stronger protection.
Overview of Deck Stain Types
Deck stains come in two primary types: oil-based and water-based. Each type has its own set of characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks that homeowners need to consider when making their decision.
- Oil-Based Stains
Oil-based stains soak deep into wood, offering strong protection. They give decks a rich color that lasts. These stains work well on both new and older wood, penetrating deeply to protect against moisture and sun damage.
Oils in the stain feed the wood, helping to keep it healthy.
Water-based stains dry quickly and are easy to clean with soap and water. They don’t have a strong smell like oil-based products do. People choose them for their eco-friendly benefits and because they hold up well under direct sunlight without fading.
- Water-Based Stains
Water-based deck stains are fast to dry. They make clean-up easy because you can use soap and water. These stains don’t smell as strong as oil-based ones. Water-based products won’t peel like oil stains sometimes do.
For decks made of composite materials, finding the best composite deck stain is equally important.
Water-based products won’t peel like oil stains sometimes do. They also hold up better under the sun’s UV rays, making them an ideal choice for decks exposed to the sun.
Water-based stains come in solid and semi-transparent types, too. If you are deciding between staining or painting for your deck, check our article on solid stain vs paint to help you make the best choice.
With a water-based stain, your wood’s surface gets protected without hiding its natural look. Plus, they’re safer for the environment because they have fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
So if you care about eco-friendly choices, water-based decking stains are a smart pick. For more information on which one might suit your deck better, our guide on transparent vs semi-transparent deck stains explains the key differences
Pros and Cons of Oil-Based Deck Stains
Oil-based deck stains offer richer color saturation and better penetration into wood, providing a more durable and long-lasting finish. However, they may require more maintenance coats and can pose environmental concerns, especially under extreme weather conditions.
- Richer color saturation
Oil based deck stains bring out the natural beauty of the wood. They make colors look deeper and more vibrant. This is because oil based stains soak into the wood well. The stain not just coats but also becomes part of the wood.
This creates a rich, lasting tone that highlights the wood grain.
Better penetration into wood is next. This means oil based products bond closely with the wood fibers.
- Richer color saturation
Oil-based stains offer superior penetration into the wood, providing enhanced protection and a more consistent finish. Moreover, they help achieve a richer color saturation.
Pros and Cons of Water-Based Deck Stains
Water-based deck stains offer faster drying times, making the staining process quicker and more convenient. They also provide easier cleanup and emit less odor compared to oil-based stains.
- Faster drying times
In the world of exterior wood care, water-based decking stains offer not just eco-friendly choices but also quicker solutions. The fast drying time ensures that homeowners spend less time waiting and more time enjoying their beautifully stained decks.
- Easier cleanup and less odor
Water-based deck stains not only offer easier cleanup but also emit less odor compared to oil-based stains. This allows you to clean up with soap and water instead of harsh chemicals, making the whole process more convenient.
Moreover, the reduced odor creates a more pleasant experience during application, especially in outdoor settings where ventilation may be limited. These features align with the eco-friendly nature of water-based products, providing homeowners peace of mind about the impact on their surroundings.
Apart from ease of cleanup, water-based deck stains are formulated to minimize odors both during and after application. This is particularly advantageous for those who prioritize low chemical exposure or have sensitivities to strong smells.
The faster drying times also contribute to this advantage as they help reduce the duration of any associated smell during application.
Oil-Based Stains
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Deep penetration into wood | Requires mineral spirits for cleanup |
| Better adhesion | High Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) levels |
| Longer drying time allows for a more even application | Strong odor |
| Non-flammable | Flammable |
| Contains UV inhibitors and synthetic resins for color retention | Can take longer to dry, depending on weather conditions |
Water-Based Stains
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Enhanced durability | May not penetrate as deeply into wood |
| Natural resistance to water and mold | Can be more susceptible to peeling and wear in high-traffic areas |
| Quick drying time | Application can be more challenging in cooler temperatures |
| Easy cleanup with soap and water | |
| Low odor | |
| Eco-friendly options available |
Top Manufacturers of Deck Stains
Choosing a high-quality deck stain from reputable manufacturers can greatly enhance the longevity and appearance of your deck. Here are some of the best:
- Behr: Known for a wide range of colours and finishes, Behr stains provide excellent durability and UV protection.
- Olympic Stains: Olympic offers a variety of oil-based and water-based options that are resistant to mildew and fading.
- Cabot: Renowned for their deep-penetrating oil stains, Cabot products bring out the natural beauty of the wood.
- Rust-Oleum: Rust-Oleum’s deck stains provide weather resistance and are easy to apply, making them a popular choice.
- Sherwin-Williams: Sherwin-Williams offers a variety of high-performance stains that protect against harsh weather conditions while enhancing wood grain.
FAQs
Water based stains are eco-friendly, dry quickly, and offer a more even finish. Oil based stains penetrate deeper into the wood providing long-lasting protection but may have trouble penetrating new or pressure treated wood.
Oil-based stains penetrate various types of wood deeply, enhancing the color of the wood. Water-based products might not penetrate as much but offer an even finish on outdoor surfaces like a new deck.
If you want to reapply with a water-based deck stain, use a stain stripper first to remove as much of the existing oil-based finish as possible for best results.
Both semi-transparent and solid stains have distinct advantages. Semi-transparent stain allows grain pattern to show through while solid stain is more akin to paint, hiding grain but offering robust protection.
Yes! Both water- and oil- based decking stains can leave lap marks if over-applied or improperly brushed out during application.
Acrylic products are typically water based which makes them eco friendly; they also provide good resistance against becoming food source for mold unlike some other types of finishes.
Why Choose Our Professional Team
Our team has been providing exceptional deck staining services for years, ensuring top-notch results for every project. When you want the best, working with professionals saves you money in the long run.
If you’re from Pennsylvania and you’re ready to tackle your deck building or deck repair project with our industry experts, contact us at (215) 608-6886 so we can get started.