If you’re in search of a wood preservative, then oil-based deck stains are the perfect ones for you.
Oil-based deck stains protect the exterior wood more efficiently than other alternatives. They are designed to resist water which helps in fewer chances of fungus. Oil-based stains for the deck are popular and are in demand as people can use them by themselves or can also get their decks painted by professionals. Oil-based stains preserve the reliability of wood, enhance the appearance of different kinds of wood. They are the ideal ones in protecting the wood from the UV rays, preserving the real color in the deck. UV rays are harmful as they directly come from the sun and damage the wood materials but with the perfect deck stain, the wood remains protected.
Protection is important for a long-lasting gorgeous appearance as more moisture or fungus produce crack, may split, or decay the wood. Here we are reviewing a list of oil-based deck stains that will help you in making the right decision of buying the ideal one.
Just Scroll a bit more for the Deck Stains list.
Let’s Dive In Now!
Best Oil Based Deck Stains 2023
Here are the Top Oil Based Deck Stains you can buy right now.
Things to look for in a Deck Stain:
A few quick things to look for in a product you consider buying.
- Protection against UV rays: Always try to buy the deck oil stain that protects from sun, air exposure, and UV rays.
- Fights against moisture: Prefer the deck stain that keeps the moisture away from wood, deck, or furniture.
- Easy application: Try buying a deck stain that doesn’t consume a lot of your time and is convenient to apply.
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Durability: Before buying, one should always prefer the durability of the deck stains. Different kinds of stains have different thickness levels. Some of the deck stains don’t need repeated coatings to apply on the wood whereas some of them require recoating every 6 months.
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Price: Before you buy, you must have an assurance of your budget as different types of deck stains have different price ranges. Some deck stains are high in price, and some have cheaper rates. Always try to buy and prefer quality over money. There might be some that are high in quality and have a moderate price range. If you want the perfect one, then go for the expensive one and save your time from recoating. The expensive ones have a long-lasting effect and give smooth textured wood.
1- AMTECO DIVISION TWP-1501 VOC Stain
[Editor’s Choice]
Why do we love it?
- It is really convenient to apply so you can apply it by yourself without any help.
- It works the best as a sealant and the stain is long-lasting with an aesthetic finish.
- It doesn’t require a lot of coats and one coat can last for more than a year.
- You can apply it using a lot of different tools including a roller and a brush.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Easy Application | ❌ None |
| ✅ Full Coverage | |
| ✅ Waterproof | |
| ✅ UV Protection | |
| ✅ Smooth & Even Finish | |
| ✅ Works as a Sealing Agent as well | |
| ✅ Ideal for Rough Surfaces | |
Undoubtedly the king of all stains, coming at an affordable price. It’s really hard for any other rand to go against it. A single coat is required for the perfect finishing. Apply with a brush or sprayer, dries up quickly.
Description
The gallon cedar tone VOC stain has a smooth coverage on the decks. It is perfect to use on hard sawn cedar, as it will give an even and soft texture to it. It is available usually in different sizes. It is great for wood cladding, wood secures, porch decking, and many more. It is one of the best penetrating oil deck stains as it performs deep penetration.
Easy to Clean
This type of deck stain is really convenient to clean up. Many stains require effective solvents for cleaning, but the cleaning process is easy for both Oil or water-based deck stain. The applying tools can be easily cleaned as after every use, they require proper cleanliness.
Durable
The material durability is the main concern of the buyers, if the product is noted durable and reliable, it will lose its charm. The Gallon Cedar tone VOC Stain is the most durable one among the greatest oil stains for decks. The durability of the product is the main element that is demanded by almost every buyer.
Renews exterior wood
It is the best oil-based exterior wood stain as it makes your house decks more appealing and attractive by renewing the exterior wood. To give a new and refreshing look to your backyard deck or other furniture, it must be stained regularly. It enhances the external beauty and texture of the wood and protects the wood from outdoor damaging conditions.
Also, check our take on the Best Wood Preservative
2- Ready Seal 105 Exterior Stain and Sealer
Why do we love it?
- It doesn’t require any primer before its application so you can apply it whenever you want to.
- You can apply it using a sprayer, brush or roller directly onto the surface.
- You don’t need to do any back brushing as it won’t leave laps, streaks or runs.
- It doesn’t require any thinning or diluting so it’s convenient to apply.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Has a Good saturation | ❌ Powerful odor |
| ✅ Long-lasting | |
| ✅ Waterproof | |
| ✅ Economical | |
| ✅ Diluting or Thinning not Required | |
| ✅ Really Easy to Apply | |
| ✅ Blends Beautifully | |
Application
It can be applied by brush or sprayer. First, Blend the containers. Then apply two moderate coats on the wood with a gap of 45 minutes. Let it dry for 2 to 3 days. It may take time to dry as it depends on temperature.
Description
Ready steel is an oil-based deck sealer that increases the wood smoothness and the beauty of the deck. It usually penetrates quite deeply in wood. The penetration helps them to remain protected from the sun’s UV rays. The UV rays are harmful, it is very important to protect decks from them.
The oil-based semitransparent deck stain usually allows the texture of wood to be visible. The semitransparent oil stain is great for the different kinds of wood schemes.
Color consistent
The ready steel is a color consisting of decking oil stain. Different jars can be mixed to enhance the color consistency of the wood. It doesn’t leave runs or stains. Some deck stains leave stains on the hands, therefore, people who like cleanliness should consider this product.
Biodegradable and blindable
The ready seal can be recycled, it has no linseed grease or oil that will make hands dirty while applying. It depends on the temperature to get dry. The temperature may vary due to humidity and other weather conditions. It is easy to blend. No other solvent is required to make a smooth mixture. The temperature may vary due to humidity and other weather conditions.
Easy Maintenance
Due to UV rays, the wood becomes grey, but if you use this product, you just need to clean the surface and only one single coat of this wood stain is needed to maintain the beauty and smooth texture of the furniture or deck. Maintenance of the decks is required to enhance the exterior furniture’s appearance and by using the perfect oil stain for decks, wood can be saved from damage.
Don’t miss Best Oil Based Wood Preservative
3- Penofin Deep Penetrating Oil Stain
Why do we love it?
- It is really convenient to use so the application won’t require a lot of effort.
- This stain shows off great results which will make you wanna buy it again.
- This product is long-lasting and so you can apply it once in a year.
- It requires only one coat of application and so the process will be effortless.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Simple to Apply | ❌ Store in an Airtight Jar |
| ✅ Easy to clean | |
| ✅ Maximum Penetration | |
| ✅ Protects Wood from molds | |
| ✅ Only One Coat Required | |
Application
Before applying, clean the frame properly. Apply a mild coat of stain on the wood. Let it dry for 30 minutes so it will penetrate inside the wood properly. Wipe up the surface completely to avoid extra finish. It should be applied in 3-6 months to maintain the wood texture smooth and beautiful.
Description
Penofin is a type of hardwood wood stain. It penetrates the deep hardwood that requires nurturing and stability. Usually, the other wood stains require a single coat for the beauty and maintenance of the deck. But profit is the one that uses the Brazilian rosewood grease. This oil needs wood to look appealing and have a smooth texture.
Mildew Protection
This penofin deck stain is the one that has the most advanced mildew protection with amazing UV rays’ safety. It protects the wood from getting dull color, stains and enhances stability. The age of the wood increases by using this type of deep penetrating deck stain.
Smooth texture
It is formulated for wood that needs deep penetration. It penetrates the fibers and has a smooth texture. When you apply a coat, it produces no bubbles on the wood or deck nor does it form cracking of decks. Deck stains protect them from the air, dust, and other harmful weather conditions.
Perfect Finish
When you are done applying the stain, the finishing will be smooth and flat. Also, durability will ensure no peeling or cracking of the wood or deck. It has another quality that it also protects the deck from the UV rays that directly come from the sun and wood needs to be protected from this to have a long-lasting life.
4- Cabot 140.0003457.005
Why do we love it?
- It provides the needed protection and keeps the wood safe from decaying by penetrating deep into the wood.
- It gives a translucent, elegant, and attractive finish to furniture.
- A couple of coats of this material are enough for a perfect final finish that gives your furniture a new look.
- The most awesome thing about this Timber stain is that its coat stays for a longer time on the material and gives a fresh look to the furniture without eroding away over time.
- It is ideal for UV protection.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Great Texture | ❌ Low Amount in Can |
| ✅ Less Intense Odor | |
| ✅ Sealing Agent | |
| ✅ Resistant to molds | |
| ✅ Great for Furniture too | |
Description
Australian timber oil stain is perfect to coat the wood material as it increases the life of the wood. It provides complete protection against UV rays as well as being waterproof and it will not let the color fade away easily. It is durable and one of The best oil-based deck stains that stays for a longer time as compared to regular timber oils.
Usage
It can be used to coat the furniture as well as decks. Its amazing durability and longevity make it perfect to use on any wood material. It is applied on the old or grey wood as well as on the new deck or furniture. Its wide uses had made it highly demanding in the marketplace.
Coverage and Application
The primary concern of most people is covered when it comes to getting a Timber oil stain. The Australian Timber Oil stain is best to use for wood material as it offers high coverage with only a few coats of oil. As well as it is easy to apply, using a brush or a pad applicator you will get a perfect finish.
The most important thing that matters before the application is preparing the surface. Once the surface is fully prepared it will give a more clean and perfect finish. So, it feels good to give a fresh look to your furniture.
5- KILZ L832111 Exterior
Why do we love it?
- This stain offers long-lasting protection from rain, sun damage, and snow.
- It is waterproof so your deck won’t grow mold even in the rainy season.
- This stain has a beautiful finish that will make you fall in love with your deck.
- It provides complete UV protection so you won’t have to worry about protecting your deck from the sun.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Long-Lasting Protection | ❌ Very Less Color Options |
| ✅ Waterproof | |
| ✅ Heat and Sun Protection | |
| ✅ Counterbalances the Wood | |
Application
If you’re looking for amazing results, thoroughly shake the paint before you apply. Apply the first coat and then let it dry for 24 hours before the second coat. To apply, use a nylon brush, sprayer, or pad applier.
Description
If you need a semi-transparent stain that is great for both new and moderate weathered kinds of wood, then it’s the one for you. It prepares the unsealed exterior surfaces completely, for example, Backyard decks, wood sidings, furniture, and more.
Coverage
On the first coat, Kilz provides coverage up to 250 sq. feet whereas on the second coat it offers 500 sq. feet. It comes with a very high coverage as compared to others. The deck’s stains with high coverage need only one coating and give a smooth and neat texture to the decks without coating them again and again.
Adaptability
The best oil-based deck stain’s main feature is its adaptability. It can get used to any type of wood you want to stain. In the end, you’ll have a perfectly smooth look at your deck or furniture. This product usually gives a professional and gorgeous quality look of the deck stain or wood.
Wide uses
It is one of the best exterior wood-type stains as it offers long-lasting protection from sun, air, or other outdoor conditions. It is a semi-transparent stain that provides a mildew-resistant finish. It makes your backyard deck or furniture more good-looking, smooth, and clean.
6- Cabot 140.0017437.007 Semi-Solid
Why do we love it?
- This stain penetrates deeply to protect your wood from any UV rays and sun damage.
- It is long-lasting and the color doesn’t fade away quickly so you can apply this stain once a year.
- This stain is water-repellent so it protects your wood from snow, rain, and sun damage.
- It requires one coat only and leaves a beautiful finish.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Coats perfectly | ❌ Not Good for Cinder Blocks |
| ✅ Lasts long | |
| ✅ Water-repellent | |
| ✅ Doesn’t fade easily | |
| ✅ Great for decks, wood siding, and fencing | |
Application
Male sure the wood surface is clean properly. Apply it with a brush and leave it to dry for 2 to 3 hours. Once it dries out, remove the excess finish to have a soft and neat texture.
Description
The Cabot semi-solid and siding stain Offers deep penetration and has semi-solid finishing that protects the wood, deck, or furniture from the air, water, or dust damage. The main part of our universe is the sun, and it emits harmful rays. To protect the deck or wood it is the best oil-based decking stain as it penetrates the wood deeply. The backyard deck is exposed to the sun that damages the wood easily. So, Cabot semi-solid deck and siding stain is preferred most of the time to ensure wood damage.
Durable
The Cabot semi-solid and siding stain has a long-lasting duration, protecting the wood from discoloring. The most durable stains are most preferable, as they don’t require repeat coating for maintenance.
Simple and easy coating
One doesn’t need to hire a professional for coating the furniture, or deck because it is the easiest and simple applicator as compared to other wood stain categories. In only a single coat, your furniture, wood has a smooth finish and neat texture.
7- STORM SYSTEM 291112
Why do we love it?
- This stain penetrates deep inside the wood for extra protection of your deck.
- It works great as a stain and as a sealer so it provides complete protection from UV damage.
- This stain is compatible with any wood material so you don’t have to worry about your wood material before getting this stain.
- It has an easy application and can be applied with a brush, spray or even roller.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Reliable | ❌ Not Good for Old Wood |
| ✅ Fade Resistant | |
| ✅ Best Sealer for Deck | |
| ✅ Easy to apply | |
| ✅ Simple to clean | |
Description
Storm protector is one of the best oil-based stains and sealers. It protects the real and appealing charm of the wood or deck. It penetrates deeply into the wood fibers, protects the word against the atmosphere and environment
The storm protector is the most reliable as compared to the other wood categories. It can be applied on any oil-based deck sealers such as cedar, cypress, pine, and more.
Less time consuming
The storm protector is the one that requires very little time for application. It is ready to be made, therefore, a person himself can do it without hiring professionals. The products that save money and require less effort in applying the stain are the mode eye-catchy ones for the buyers who have such requirements.
Better waterproof abilities
Storm Protector provides the high-quality waterproof capability. It protects the deck from sun damage and allows the color to remain constant. Most of the stains allow the color to fade away but this type of deck stain does not allow fadedness of color and makes it better looking and appealing.
Durable
The storm protector is more durable and reliable as compared to other oil-based deck sealers. It provides shine and smooth texture to your furniture and makes it long-lasting. The wood gets grey and old, losing its charm and beauty but with this deck’s stain, the life of the wood only enhances and prevents wood from decaying.
Application
Usually, a storm protector is a readymade wood stain. You just must stir it thoroughly before applying. To get a uniform and even color, blend all the containers in a different jar. You can apply it using a brush, sprayer, or roller. For proper penetration, there should not be any excess oil or grease. Do clean the surface before the application and let it have a minimum of 15 percent moisture.
8- SEAL-ONCE MARINE
Why do we love it?
- This stain doesn’t contain any smell.
- It has great penetration and protects your wood from sun damage.
- The Seal-Once stain is waterproof and works great as a sealant.
- It has a beautiful finishing and leaves a great color on your deck.
| Pros | Cons |
| ✅ Waterproof stain | ❌ ● Molds up if continuous exposure to water |
| ✅ Eco-friendly | |
| ✅ No Pungent Smell | |
| ✅ Good penetration | |
| ✅ Flexible and permits wood to get old | |
Application
Shake thoroughly before use. Apply the first coat with a brush or air sprayer. For better results, always back brush after using a sprayer. After the first coat is deeply penetrated, apply the second coat within an hour but make sure the first coat is damp during the second coat. If you want an amazing result, apply the coats in shade or away from sunlight. Remove the excess finishing to have a smooth texture.
Description
Unlike other top sealers, MARINE is the most advanced in-demand coat sealer as it uses nanotechnology for deep penetration beneath the wood surface. It provides a breathable and adaptable barrier to allow water vapors to flee and expand easily and offers protection to wood from inside and outside. It also protects the wood from cracks, fungus, decay, and rotting of woods, deck, or furniture.
Most of the sealers trap moisture beneath the wood surface that damages the wood finishing and often makes cracks and peeling of the coats. This type of damage requires regular maintenance. Therefore, Seal once is the best as it uses advanced technology and permits the wood to breathe and relax and provide protection against the air or water.
Preserve old and new wood
Seal once marine permits the wood to grow naturally without decaying or damaging the smooth texture. It mainly extends the wood life. It also stabilizes the grain wood from deforming or cracks. To get a smooth and long-lasting texture of the deck, the stain used must protect the wood from deforming.
Enhance natural wood grain
It doesn’t change the natural beauty of wood. Nanotechnology doesn’t hurt people, animals, or marine life. You can find it in multiple colors that increase the wood or deck’s beauty and appearance. One should always prefer colors to stain a deck to have a more attractive deck or wood.
Safe to use
This deck stain is not harmful to pets and animals or humans. If you inhale it accidentally, just breathe out. You should always clean and wash your hands with soap after you apply this stain on the deck or furniture to ensure the safety of everybody.
Bonus Products
9- Minwax 71029000 Polyurethane, Semi-Gloss
10- SEAL-ONCE Exotic Premium
Oil Based Deck Stains-Buying Guide
There is a great difference between painting and staining the deck. The stain is usually invisible and transparent but shows the shines or smoothness in the wood or deck. Whereas both the products have similar features, as they both protect them from UV rays, repel water and prevent fungus and other damages.
Choosing the greatest deck stain is not an easy thing, you should have proper knowledge of kind and deck wood age and history. If you know the wood, then only you’ll be able to decide the best oil-based deck stains.
The ideal deck stains offer protection to wood against harmful and damaging things. If you’re looking for the best deck oil stain, then hopefully your search will end here.
If you are trying to stain the deck for the first time, you should read the whole article as we had described the best deck stains, answered the most asked questions. Before purchasing one must check the oil-based deck stain reviews to get the ideal one.
Some of the factors mentioned below will surely help the buyers to buy the right one and you can get complete knowledge of what is the best oil-based deck stain for you.
Base types:
There are two types of deck stains:
- Oil-based deck stains
- Acrylic-based deck stains
Both the deck stain types are available in different colors. Each has its unique abilities and benefits. The oil-based deck stains are the most older deck stains as oil-based deck stain colors are great in variety. Different colors attract people with different tastes. The oil-based usually repels water, reduces fungus, and deeply penetrates.
Oil Based
The oil-based deck stains are expensive as compared to other deck stains. They protect decks from cracking and diffusing. People who don’t like strong odors don’t prefer oil-based stains. One of the worst disadvantages of oil-based is that they catch heat when they are wet. So, keep them away from heat or smoke.
Acrylic-based
Acrylic-based stains are usually water-based. They dry up quickly as compared to the other oil-based deck stain. They don’t have deep penetration and are quite expensive as compared to the oil-based deck stain. The main advantage of this type of deck stain is that it is environmentally friendly and is less combustible compared to the oil-based deck stain.
Easier to apply
Always consider your convenience. If you’re a lazy or a busy person, try to buy a deck stain that is easy to apply, simple to clean, and only requires water and a single coat. Otherwise, powerful solvents would be needed to clean the wood surface before you apply the coat, and it will be hectic and time-consuming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most frequent questions that most buyers have.
Q. Should I use an oil-based stain on the cedar deck?
Cedar deck is hard to stain, we prefer to use the water-based dark stain for proper finishing and smooth texture. But otherwise, in most staining processes, it is advised to use oil-based ones as they last far longer.
Q. What is the easiest method of staining your deck?
The simple and easy method to apply stain on deck is to apply it with a soft brush. You can easily find a brush in your home or from a nearby departmental store.
Q. Which is the best stain to do on the deck present in the backyard?
As the deck present in the backyard is exposed to the sun, direct UV rays fall on it. We prefer an oil-based deck stain so that it protects the deck.
Q. What is the best deck stain that protects your wood from color fading?
The oil-based deck stains protect the wood from color fading, maintaining the smooth texture and its beauty. Here we have chosen Cabot 140.0003457.005 as the ideal option.
Q. Can we use a roller to stain the deck?
Yes, a roller, brush, or sprayer can be used to stain the deck. All three things are preferable to use for staining the deck, wood, or furniture.
Q. Do oil-based deck stains last the longest?
The last longing usually depends on the wood type, atmosphere, and weather change. But the oil-based deck stain has generally the most loan-lasting effect on the wood or furniture.
Q. Which deck stain colors are known the most?
Almost all the colors are popular and attractive but among all types of the top ones are Redwood and cedar deck stains. One must prefer them to buy.
Doug is a master woodworker with over 15 years of experience in the craft. Doug's passion for woodworking began at a young age, watching his father build furniture and learning from him the skills and techniques that have made him the expert he is today.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned woodworker, Doug's blog is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their skills and knowledge in the craft.
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