5 Best Deck Stain for Weathered Wood in 2023

If you see your weathered deck wearing out, or if you see its color fading with time, then you will need an immediate solution for it.

After all, enhancing its appearance will give your house a better outlook. And the easiest method for that is using a stain.

But that doesn't mean you will just go out and get any stain. You will have to look for the best deck stain for weathered wood .

Editors' Picks: Deck Stains for Weathered Wood in 2023

• #
  Preview
  Product
  Rating
• Bestseller No. 1
  
  Defy Extreme Wood Stain 1-Gallon (Cedar Tone)
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 2
  
  KILZ Waterproofing Wood Stain, Exterior, Semi-Transparent, Redwood, 1 Gallon
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 3
  
  Cabot 140.0019200.007 Wood Toned Deck & Siding Low VOC Stain, Natural
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 4
  
  Olympic Maximum Wood Stain And Sealer For Decks, Fences, Siding, and Other Outdoor Wood...
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 5
  
  #1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain for Decks, Fences, & Siding - 1 Gallon (Light...
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 6
  
  Storm Stain Protector - Cedartone, 1 Gallon, Protects Outdoor Wood from Water & UV Rays,...
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 7
  
  Rust-Oleum 250241H Ultimate Spar Urethane Water Based, Quart, Satin Finish
  Rating:

  
  
• Bestseller No. 8
  
  TCP Global Professional Gravity Feed HVLP Spray Gun with a 1.4mm Fluid Tip, 1 Liter...
  Rating:

  
  

And the process can seem daunting, but don't worry because we are here to help you out with it.

Along with our top five picks, you will also find a buying guide here, which will make the process of choosing much easier.

So, without further ado, let's get started!

5 Best Deck Stain for Weathered Wood Reviews

Are you looking for a deck stain for weathered wood but still haven't gotten quite close to finding an apt one? Well, fret no more, because we are here with our top five picks. You will be able to choose the right one just after going through the reviews.

1. DEFY Extreme 1 Gallon Semi-Transparent Exterior Wood Stain

When we think about maintaining wooden surfaces, we think it's mandatory to strip the surface all over again to give it a fresh look. However, that won't be necessary with this item because all you will have to do is brighten the surface and apply a coat of this stain- and that's about it.

Moreover, this stain comes with a water-based formula, which is totally environmental-friendly and provides a semi-transparent but matte finish. This aspect will allow the wood grain on the surface to show itself, which will help retain the beauty of it without any hassle.

Furthermore, you will be able to apply it to various furniture and parts of the house. For instance, you can use it on outdoor patio furniture, fences, wood decks, playsets, siding, etc. More importantly, no matter where you apply it, the results will be excellent without you putting in much effort.

What makes it exceptionally good for outdoor use is its zinc nano-particle technology. Basically what it does is it disperses the particles throughout the stain, which reflects all the harmful UV rays. As a result, the wood will not face premature greying or color loss.

Moreover, the product has been made using high-quality resins, which resists darkening and fading for a long time. This aspect makes the wood stain very durable, which reduces the hassle of applying the product on the surfaces from time to time. As a result, your costs will be saved as well.

But you will have to apply at least three to four coatings at once for the stain to look good- or else, the results may not be satisfactory. On the other hand, the product isn't necessarily waterproof, and your deck might absorb water every time it rains.

Pros

• Effortless maintenance doesn't require stripping the surface repeatedly
• Water-based formula provides semi-transparent matte finish
• Can be used on outdoor patio furniture, playsets, siding, fences, etc
• Zinc nano particles reflect UV rays and prevent color loss
• Durable wood stain can last for one or more seasons than average

Cons

• Requires three to four coatings at once for good results
• Not waterproof and surface may absorb water

2. Rust-Oleum 313835 Varathane Weathered Wood Accelerator

If you are going to use a deck stain, then you surely wouldn't want it to fade within a short period. Therefore, you should invest in something long-lasting. And while a lot of stains don't guarantee such longevity, this one does. You will find out more about its qualities in our comprehensive review.

What makes this item truly special is that it can be used with any type of wood. And the final result will depend on the type of wood that you were working on. However, it still wouldn't fail to create the natural and aged look within a matter of minutes, which will provide a much better outlook.

Furthermore, this stain is suitable for interior use, and it can be applied on untreated or bare wood. Right after application, you will see that the wood will start to have a weathered look, which will further enhance its appearance. As a result, the deck will look much better than before.

Are you afraid of the product giving off a strong chemical smell? Well, that's not something to be concerned about with this item because it comes with a low odor formula, which is also water-based. This formula will also allow you to clean it up easily with soap and water.

On the other hand, you won't have to wait for much longer for it to dry, because the stain will dry to touch within an hour only. Moreover, it can cover up to 275 square feet, depending on the type and porosity of the wood. Therefore, you won't have to worry about ruining the application or falling short.

But the color of the stain is more blue than grey, which can be a little disappointing and unexpected for the users. Moreover, the color gets ruined pretty easily, so it is recommended to put a varnish on top.

Pros

• Provides longevity to prevent a repetitive application
• Creates a natural and aged look within minutes
• Wood will have a weathered look right after application
• Comes with a low odor formula that is water-based and easy to clean
• Dries up within an hour and covers about 275 square feet of wood

Cons

• Color of the stain is more blue than grey
• Color gets ruined, hence, varnish is required

3. #1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain for Decks

Are you tired of waiting to stain your deck right after you have cleaned it? Well, that won't be an issue with this item because it is suitable for application on damp wood as well. Once the wood is visibly dry, you will be able to stain it without any hassle. It comes with other top-notch facilities, which are discussed here.

The most significant benefit of this stain is that it will prevent color fading and prevent greying. You will be able to use it on various types of woods. For instance, it will provide the same benefits on cedar, fir, redwood, pressure-treated pine and will protect them from damage.

What makes it even better is that you won't have to use a sealer separately with it, because you will be getting two-in-one facilities. It will not only add color to your deck, but it will also seal it, which will prevent water penetration. As a result, the deck will always remain protected from damage.

To give your deck a very natural and flat look, this semi-transparent stain will allow for the wood grain to show. You will also be able to select from five different colors, depending on the look you are going for. Hence, the finish of the deck will be exactly according to your preferences.

Cleaning up after applying wood stain can be quite hassle-some. However, that won't be a problem with this one because it is absolutely effortless to clean up after. All you will need to use is soap and water; plus, it won't require much effort or time to clean, making it better for the users.

However, you will need a lot of product to complete staining the entire deck, which might cost a little more than expected. Furthermore, the item provides a bluish tone on the surface of the deck, which is unpleasant for the users.

Pros

• Can be applied on damp wood or once it is visibly dry
• Prevents color fading and greying and can be used on various softwoods
• Acts as a stain and a sealant and prevents water penetration
• Semi-transparent stain lets the wood grain show with five color options
• Can be cleaned easily with soap and water

Cons

• A lot of product is needed to stain the entire deck
• Item provides a bluish tone

4. Ready Seal 512 5-Gallon Pail Natural Cedar Exterior Stain

Sanding and stripping stains are often required before re-application. But that only calls for extra trouble and wastes too much energy. However, this product has been made to ensure you don't have to go through such hassles, as it provides effortless maintenance. Find out more about it right here.

Using this item only gets easier, which makes it a fan-favorite. If you are planning on spraying it, then you can effortlessly do so without thinning or diluting it. Furthermore, it doesn't require a primer either. The stain will automatically reach its true color within 14 days, without you doing anything.

What makes it even more convenient to use is that you will be able to use just about any tool to apply it. For instance, the item can be applied using a sprayer, a brush, or a roller. In fact, you will be able to use it on various types of wood as well, which makes it rather versatile.

On the other hand, the stain doesn't require any wet-line application as well. That means it can blend itself without you putting any extra effort into it. Furthermore, the stain can be applied in any temperature range for proper application. Therefore, you won't have to wait for the right temperature as well.

For further convenience, the item has been designed in such a way that makes sure you don't need to back brush it. Moreover, it will never leave streaks, runs, or laps as well. As a result, there won't be anything extra for you to take care of once you are done applying the stain. However, the stain might start to ooze oil if you expose it to the sun after a few weeks of application, which can be rather inconvenient. Furthermore, it doesn't resist water - rather, you might have to re-stain it after a couple of rainy days.

Pros

• Doesn't require sanding or stripping stains before re-application
• Doesn't require primer, thinning or diluting before spraying
• Can be used with a sprayer, brush or a roller
• Can blend itself in any temperature range without any hassle
• Doesn't require back brushing and resists streaks, runs and laps

Cons

• Might start oozing oil when exposed to the sun
• Doesn't resist to water

5. General Finishes Oil Base Gel Stain, 1 Gallon, Gray

Are you looking for a stain that will provide a lustrous finish all over your deck? Well, in that case, here's an item that surely wouldn't want to miss out on. But it has a lot to offer other than just that, which will only amaze you once you start using it. Find out about its qualities in our comprehensive review.

If you are afraid of the stain penetrating the deck quite deeply, then you have got nothing to worry about with this. That is because, since this item is heavy-bodied, it will not penetrate the material as much as its liquid oil-base counterparts would. Hence, it is safe to use.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a more even appearance on your deck, then you are going to love this item. This stain is great for bringing out such an appearance on woods that are rather tough to deal with - such as pine or aspen. You would thank this product in no time!

If you have little to no prior experience in this field, then you can rest assured because using this stain isn't rocket science! You can apply it on your deck with a foam brush or simply wipe with a cloth - whichever is convenient for you. It won't be creating much of a mess either during the application.

What makes it even better is that it comes with all these great qualities at a very reasonable price. As a result, it will be providing excellent value for money to its users. You won't have to be concerned about investing in a product that won't that won't be worth it - because this one totally is.

One of the major let-downs of this item is that it does not dry and remains tacky at times, which can be very inconvenient for the users. On the other hand, it feels more like paint than stain, which can be disappointing for the users as well.

Pros

• Provides a lustrous finish all over the deck after application
• Doesn't penetrate into the material as much
• Brings out a more even appearance on aspen and pine
• Can be applied with a foam brush or wiped with a cloth
• Excellent value for money

Cons

• Does not dry and remains tacky
• Feels more like paint rather than stain

Things to Consider Before Buying

Once you have made the decision of getting a deck stain for weathered wood, you should start searching with caution. You wouldn't want to end up with the wrong stain, which will just ruin the deck, along with your efforts.

That is why getting the right product is essential, and you wouldn't rush the decision. For that, you should consider all the key factors before choosing a particular stain.

And to help you throughout the process, we have made a list of all the important facilities you should look out for. If you keep these in mind, then you are sure to be satisfied with your purchase.

Is It Oil-Based or Water-Based?

If we are to say which one would be better in a general sense, then we would pick water-based stains.

However, some woods can rot in the presence of moisture, and for those, it is better if you go for the oil-based counterpart.

Moreover, if you are looking for a richer appearance and don't plan on repetitive re-applications, then the oil-based stain would be a better option as well.

What Is the Size of the Deck?

The last thing you would want is for the stain to run out even before you are done staining your deck.

Hence, have an approximate estimate of your deck's overall size first.

Afterward, choose the volume of the stain according to the deck's size. Do read the description to make sure the stain will be enough.

Does It Contain Harmful Chemicals?

Many stains contain volatile organic compounds (VOC).

Now the natural ones cause no harm to humans. But the man-made ones should be avoided at all costs.

So you should pay attention to the ingredients list, and steer clear of them.

Is It Easy to Use?

When we talk about whether or not a stain is easy to use, we imply the ease of application and cleanliness.

Make sure your chosen stain can be used with various tools. Also, choose one that can be cleaned easily using soap and water only.

What Is Its Color ?

The color of the stain entirely depends on your personal preferences.

Hence, you should navigate through the color s, and choose the one that will enhance the appearance of the deck the most.

Choosing the wrong one will totally ruin its outlook, and you wouldn't want that.

Does It Also Act as a Sealer?

When getting a stain, we would recommend you to look for one that can act as a sealer as well.

That is because, both a stain and a sealer have their fair share of benefits, so having the benefits of both would be the best for your deck.

You wouldn't have to search too hard because they are readily available.

Is It Durable?

The easiest way to find out whether or not a stain is durable, you should check if it wears out or fades quickly. You should also focus on how often it needs to be re-applied.

That is because you wouldn't want to settle for one that will require you to stain again and again.

Will It Reflect UV Rays and resist Water?

One of the primary purposes of a stain is to protect your deck. Hence, you should look for one that will reflect UV rays as well as prevent water from penetrating the surface.

These will help your deck retain health for a long time.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it possible to stain over weathered wood?

Yes, it is possible to stain over weathered wood. However, if you want its natural look to show, then you should use a semi-transparent stain, which will show the wood grain. Other than that, you should also use the proper steps to stain it.

2. How should I stain an old weathered deck?

The first step of staining an old weathered deck is to clean it. You should make sure it is free of dust, dirt, and mildew. Then you should use a stain/sealer remover. Afterward, you should neutralize the surface using a revive product in a pump sprayer. Lastly, you should stain and enjoy your beautiful deck.

3. Is it necessary to sand an old deck before staining?

After you have cleaned and washed an old deck, you would definitely let it dry. And once it dries, the wood fibers can rise, which might cause splinters. Therefore, it is quite necessary to sand before you apply the stain, because you wouldn't want to strip the stain and redo it.

4. Is it recommended to pressure wash before staining?

Yes, it is recommended to pressure wash before staining. However, that itself is not enough to make the stain last. There are some other steps that you should be taking as well to make sure you won't have to re-apply anytime soon. For instance, it is quite necessary to go for a good cleaner.

5. Should I stain my deck or seal it?

Many professionals would suggest using a combination of both a stain and a sealer. That is because a sealer can protect the wood from water and chemical damage, whereas the stain can reflect UV rays. Therefore, you can go for items that come with the facilities of both for your own advantage.

Final Words

The best deck stain for weathered wood for you is not the most popular one; rather, it's the one that will suit your needs the most.

Therefore, you should examine your deck first and determine what it truly needs. Then you should start looking for one accordingly.

Buy them at eBay, Etsy, Walmart (limited quantity)

Defy Extreme Wood Stain 1-Gallon (Cedar Tone) - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

KILZ Waterproofing Wood Stain, Exterior, Semi-Transparent, Redwood, 1 Gallon - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Cabot 140.0019200.007 Wood Toned Deck & Siding Low VOC Stain, Natural - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Olympic Maximum Wood Stain And Sealer For Decks, Fences, Siding, and Other Outdoor Wood - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

#1 Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain for Decks, Fences, & Siding - 1 Gallon (Light - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Storm Stain Protector - Cedartone, 1 Gallon, Protects Outdoor Wood from Water & UV Rays, - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Rust-Oleum 250241H Ultimate Spar Urethane Water Based, Quart, Satin Finish - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

TCP Global Professional Gravity Feed HVLP Spray Gun with a 1.4mm Fluid Tip, 1 Liter - Walmart, Etsy, eBay