Should you stain, oil or paint your deck?

Protecting and enhancing the beauty of your deck is an important task, and there are a few options to consider. You can choose to stain, oil, or paint your deck, and each of these finishes has its unique features, offering different levels of protection and maintenance requirements. At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preference and the look you want to achieve. Luckily, our range of timbercare finishes can help you check this task off your to-do list. So, let's dive into the world of decking stains, oils, and paints to help you decide which is right for you.

Decking Oils

  • Nourishes and protects timber
  • Enhances the colour of timber slightly as it has lower levels of pigments than decking stains
  • Excellent choice for those who prefer a subtle finish that retains the timber's natural texture and appearance
  • Requires checkup every 12 months to see if the coated timber has changed in colour or water repellency diminishes due to weathering.

Decking oils are formulated to nourish and enhance the beauty of timber, offering a natural-looking finish. One popular option is Aquadeck, a highly durable, water-based decking oil that provides protection from UV rays, moisture, and the elements. Lasting 2 times longer than traditional oil-based decking oils, you can enjoy your deck for longer between coats. Lightly pigmented to three colours; Jarrah, Merbau and Natural. Find out how to oil your deck in a day here.

Decking Stains

  • Rejuvenates and transforms the colour of timber
  • Available in various colors for customisation - all from neutral tones to bold colours that pop
  • Lasts longer than decking oil due to higher levels of pigmentation
  • Provides deep protection by penetrating the timber

Decking stains offer both superior protection and a choice of stunning colours for your exterior timber. Exterior stains penetrate the timber, adding color without hiding the natural grain. This allows your beautiful timber deck's unique character to shine through!

Our decking stains come in a variety of shades so you can choose a finish that complements your outdoor space. You can opt for either a water-based or oil-based formula. If you're interested, you can learn how to stain or re-stain decking here.

Decking Paints

  • Offers a wide range of stunning colors
  • Provides a solid, opaque finish for a uniform look that will conceal the natural grain of the timber
  • Offers maximum protection against UV rays, moisture, and weathering
  • Resistant to heavy foot traffic and abrasion

Paints create a solid, opaque finish that conceals the timber grain whilst providing robust protection against the elements. Timbercolour is a premium acrylic self priming exterior paint specifically made for timber. It's tough, durable, and designed to be walked on.

If you're looking to repaint a painted deck or simply give your deck maximum protection and a wide range of color options, Cabot's Timbercolour Deck & Exterior Paint is an excellent choice for coating your timber deck. This timber paint's unique formula nourishes and protects the timber while providing excellent dirt and stain resistance. If you're looking to paint your deck, learn the steps here.

When choosing between timber decking oil vs stain, or paint for your deck, consider your preferences, the level of protection or maintenance required, and desired look. Whether you're after a finish that showcases the natural beauty of the timber, or the uniform, solid colour of paint, Cabot's offers a finish to meet your DIY goals. Whichever finish you choose, proper preparation and maintenance will ensure your deck remains a beautiful and durable outdoor space for many years to come.