Here's How To Nail The Right Deck Stain Color Without Hiring A Pro

Part of staining your wooden deck like a professional includes picking the perfect wood stain. The choices can seem endless – from different colors and subtle undertones to various finishes and levels of transparency. While your home's overall aesthetic and the natural color of your deck wood can offer initial direction, there are additional steps and considerations to take to make sure you land on just the right stain. To nail the right deck stain color without hiring a pro, gather samples before fully selecting your stain of choice. Additionally, you'll need to know what type of wood you're dealing with, as different wood types absorb stain differently, which can significantly impact the final color.

When selecting the perfect color for your deck stain, consider the condition of your wood to help make your final decision. And don't forget to choose a deck color that complements your home's exterior to give our outdoor space a cohesive and well-integrated look. The stain color acts as a bridge between your home and your landscape, so choosing a shade that harmonizes with both will create a more visually appealing and inviting environment.

Color, transparency, and finishes — oh my. Choosing the right deck stain color can feel a little daunting at first, but if you follow these steps, you can feel comfortable picking a color that protects your wood and looks awesome in your outdoor living space for years to come. First, you'll need to inspect your deck, taking note of what type of wood it is — softer woods with more open grain patterns tend to absorb deck stain the best, while dense hardwoods with tight grain patterns tend to absorb deck stain the least effectively.

Also, note what condition your wood is in. A healthy wood can showcase a wider range of stain colors beautifully. On the other hand, aged, cracked, or heavily textured wood tends to absorb stain more unevenly and will look blotchy or inconsistent once the stain is applied. In these cases, darker and more opaque stains can help in masking imperfections or heavy color variations and provide a more consistent appearance.

Don't rely solely on the color swatches in the store or online images, as the actual color can vary significantly depending on the type of wood and lighting conditions. Purchase small quantities of your top contenders and test them directly on a clean, sanded section of your actual deck wood (preferably in an inconspicuous area or on spare boards). It takes between 24 to 48 hours for deck stain to dry completely, so make sure to give it at least that long to see the true final color and how it interacts with the wood grain. This important step will prevent costly mistakes and ensure you're truly happy with your final selection. Make sure that the color you choose complements your home by either matching the exterior color, matching your home's trim color choice, or choosing a different, yet coordinating color.

Knowing how to choose the right deck stain is half of the equation; knowing what mistakes to avoid is the other. First, consider the amount of sunlight your deck receives throughout the day and avoid selecting a color that's too dark for a sunny location. Dark-colored stains absorb more heat, which can make your deck surface uncomfortably hot underfoot during warmer months. It can also potentially lead to faster fading and cracking. However, you'll also want to avoid choosing a color that's too light for high-traffic areas. Light-colored stains tend to show dirt, scuff marks, and wear more easily, requiring more frequent cleaning and maintenance.

While choosing fun colors can be exciting, don't forget to account for future changes. If you plan to alter your home's exterior color or landscaping at some point down the line (before your deck needs to be stained again), you may end up with a disjointed color scheme that lacks cohesiveness. In the same vein, if planning on selling your home sooner rather than later, avoid staining your deck a color that's too bold or trendy. Opting for a classic or timeless color ensures your deck will look good for years to come and appeal to a broader range of potential buyers.