Barbecue season is finally here! Is your deck ready for grilling and entertaining?
Harsh winters can take a toll on wooden decks. Most unfinished wood that is exposed to the elements will eventually crack, split, warp, and even rot, which will result in higher maintenance costs down the road.
It’s best to finish the wood with stain or paint to prolong the life of your deck so you can enjoy it for many years to come.
Which option is best for you – paint or stain?
COLOR
One benefit of painting your deck is that you can choose from any color you want. Depending on the color, it might be easier to clean because the hard shell of the paint will allow dirt and grime to easily wash off. If you opt for a lighter color, like white, however, you will find the opposite to be true.
Stain also comes in a variety of colors. Keep in mind that the natural color of the wood itself will have an effect on what the stain will look like once applied. It is best to test the stain on small section and allowing it to dry to see if the end result is what you want.
CONSISTENCY
Since paint is thicker than stain, it will often fill gaps and cracks on wooden planks that have been damaged by the elements. This can be an affordable fix instead of replacing your deck altogether.
If your deck is not damaged, however, then paint will hide the grains of the wood. Stain, on the other hand, will allow the natural beauty of the wood to show through. If your deck is in good condition, this is best option for you.
APPLICATION
Stain is easier to apply than paint. It will take less time to apply and look better because it won’t be as obvious if you miss a spot.
SAFETY
Paint can also be slippery when wet, depending on the sheen you choose. This can result in unwanted injuries when it rains. If your deck is part of a high traffic area, then you should think twice before painting it. Stain is a safer option because it is generally less slippery than paint.
MAINTENANCE
Sun, rain, and snow can take a toll on a painted deck. The constant shrinking and expanding of your wooden deck will cause the paint chip and peel over time.
Stain does not last as long as paint, depending on the quality of the stain and number of coats applied. If you opt to stain your deck, you will need to reapply the stain every few years, but you will avoid the unsightly chipping and peeling of paint.
Both paint and stain will protect the wood by protecting it from UV rays and avoiding water from being absorbed, which will prevent it from rotting.
Keep in mind that paint is permanent. While you can go from stain to paint, you cannot easily change from paint to stain without extensive labor being involved. If your deck has already been painted, then the decision has already been made for you.
Whichever method you decide is best, Greenley’s Painting will do the project at a fair and reasonable price. Check out our project gallery to see the quality of our work and get ideas for your next painting project.
Give Greenley’s Painting a call today at (302) 233-5609 for a free estimate to enhance your deck.