Decking Stains v’s Decking Oils

Timber decking offers homeowners an affordable and welcoming outdoor space to enjoy. However, it is important to understand that external timber requires ongoing protection from the elements. Water and UV light can weather timber decking and cause warping, cupping and splitting. That’s why applying a decking stain or oil to the timber is essential to help prevent these issues and keep your deck looking great for longer.

In this blog, we will discuss the difference between decking stains and decking oils to help you choose the best solution for your deck.

Should I Use a Decking Oil or a Stain on My Deck?

It depends on the result that you require. A decking oil will enhance the natural colour and grain of the timber. On the other hand, a stain will change the colour of the timber to match your desired look.

What is a Decking Stain?

a close up shot of a Intergrain's Intergrain® UltraDeck® Timber Stain

Intergrain® UltraDeck® Timber Stain. Check out the full Decking Stain range here.

Decking stains are used to change the colour of decking boards while enhancing the natural grain of the timber. They provide a high level of UV protection to the timber. They are available in water-based stains and oil-based stains. Water-based stains are less toxic, easy to clean up and are suitable for internal and external projects.

Oil-based stains penetrate the timber, require a topcoat and perform better in high traffic or harsh weather conditions. Oil-based stains can also offer mould and mildew protection.

The Advantages of Timber Decking Stains

Decking stains seal the deck with a film or coating protecting the timber from the elements and foot traffic
Limits UV exposure and protects the timber from the effects of UV rays
Decking stains are suitable for handrails and detailing
Stains offer great colour coverage
Decking stains dry quickly, making the process more efficient
Provides a waterproof finish.

Typically, you should re-stain a deck every two to three years for best results. However, depending on the deck’s exposure to the elements, you may want to re-coat the timber each year.

What is Decking Oil?

a close up shot of a Cabot's® Natural Decking Oil.

Cabot’s® Natural Decking Oil. Check out the full Decking Oil range here.

Decking oil is designed to protect timber decking from the elements, replace the timber’s natural oils and provide high UV protection. It is not used to add colour to the timber but rather enhance the colour of the timber and its grain. Decking oil penetrates the timber, providing water, dirt and mould resistance. Like decking stains, decking oils come in both water-based and oil-based options.

Water-based decking oils are usually low in odour, have a fast re-coat time and have a semi-transparent natural finish. Oil-based decking oils nourish and protect timber, resist mould and dirt for longer and offer a semi-transparent matt finish.

The Advantages of Timber Decking Oils

Decking oils penetrate deep into the timber for lasting protection
Includes water, mould and dirt resistance
Many include UV filters to reduce the impact of UV rays
Excellent coverage
Restores the timbers natural oils
Oils help prevent cracking, breaking and warping.

Aim to re-oil your timber deck every one to two years to keep it looking its best. Although, you can re-oil your timber decking more often if it is exposed to harsh conditions.

For information about how to oil your deck, read our blog, ‘How to Apply Decking Oil the Right Way.’

Decking Stain or Decking Oil

Whether you prefer the look of decking stain or oil, it is important to ensure that you do not wait too long to re-coat your deck. If you want to ensure your decking is completely protected from the elements, read about our pre-coated timber service on our blog, ‘Choose Pre-Coated Timber for a Long-Lasting Deck.’

For more information about timber decking, decking oils and decking stains, explore our website or visit a Bowens store in Melbourne or regional Victoria today.

Decking Stains v’s Decking Oils: What’s the Difference

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