Having a timber deck in your home means you have a beautiful addition to your home. It creates extra functional space in your home that you can use to entertain yourself or your guests. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the outside air and light in the comfort of your home.
Usually, a deck made with hardwood is durable and lasts for many years even with little care. However, properly addressing issues, timely repairs and regular cleaning are essential to get their worth. As deck boards often get exposed to harsh weather, they tend to get damaged if they are not properly maintained.
One essential part of maintenance is staining the deck boards. You can also paint them for better resistance. The question arises which is better, staining or painting?
Understanding the Key Differences:
Painting and staining the timber decking are two proper solutions as part of deck maintenance. They provide excellent aesthetics and protective benefits. However, they differ in how they are applied, appear and requirements for maintenance.
Let’s See How Painting Works:
When you choose painting, you can choose any colour you want that complements your deck and house. You don’t have to look at wood colour as the colour will be solid that covers the natural grain of the wood.
Compared to staining, painting lasts longer and provides great resistance against moisture and UV rays. As Melbourne has unpredictable weather, painting is great for those who live in hot climates.
Painting tends to peel off after some time and can affect the aesthetics of the whole deck. So regular touchups are needed if you choose to paint your deck. However, while repainting, you can choose a different colour if you wish to have a change in appearance.
Usually, painting is preferred for old decks and not for new decks. As aged decks are heavily withered, painting them will cover the damage and give a new and fresh look. It’s perfect for those who wish to change the look completely.
Let’s Understand How Staining Works:
Staining is perfect for those who wish to enjoy the natural colour of wood but with an added layer of protection. It’s best for those who want to enhance the natural shade of wood grain.
When it comes to durability, staining is a bit weaker and you may have to reapply frequently to preserve the natural shade of wood. It also depends on the usage. Heavy usage means more time you have to stain the wood.
When compared to painting which usually peels off and looks disconnected on the deck, staining slowly fades off. Hence, it’s easier to maintain – you just have to reapply the coating and your deck looks as good as new.
If you are constructing a new deck or even have a well-maintained deck in your house, then prefer to stain it rather than paint it. You can enjoy the natural colour of wood without damaging the surface.
What Factors to Consider Before You Stain or Paint?
The answer to whether to stain or paint depends on a few factors stated below that help you make an informed decision.
- Check the condition of the deck: One major factor that finalises your decision is the condition of the deck. Go for paint if the deck is heavily damaged and staining if it’s new or well-maintained. Staining on a damaged deck will not cover the imperfections and even highlight them more. So, always check the condition of the deck before you decide.
- Climate and weather: If you live in a highly humid area or receive frequent rainfall or intense sun exposure, then painting offers you better protection. It can withstand the harsh weather and protects your deck from cracking. However, staining is more breathable and helps in the reduction of moisture buildup.
- Maintenance level: when choosing between the two, consider how much maintenance you can give to your deck. Painting requires more maintenance whether in terms of reapplying or cleaning. Staining offers easy cleaning process.
- Your aesthetic preference: if you want to see your deck in a different colour than wood, go for painting. Or if you want to enhance the natural wood grain colour, then prefer staining your deck.
Tips for Maintaining Your Deck:
Whether you prefer painting or staining, you should do regular cleaning so that the deck lasts long for years. Removing debris and cleaning the deck will prevent moisture buildup and helps protect the surface of your deck. If you want, you can explore other sustainable and durable alternatives to timber decking.
You should also reapply paint or stain to get the former glory of your deck. Also, always inspect for damages and check for signs of wear, peeled paint or rotten boards.
Final Thoughts
From deck building to maintaining, you need to give proper care towards the outside structures as they are constantly exposed to harsh weather and elements. Whether you paint or stain, give regular care and you can enjoy spending time on your deck for many years to come.
