Staining Decking to Colour and Protect it Ask questions and find answers on all your decking problems and issues

[Trapezeartist]

We have a large area of decking with hand rails and side-fencing which was installed about two years ago. It's still "natural" but is going grey in patches and even has a little bit of algae on the northeast-facing side of the house. I would like to stain it to give it colour and protection, but retain the wood grain (so not a thick paint). What product would people recommend?

[stoneyboy]

Hi trapezeartist
Pressure wash the decking, allow to dry thoroughly and then apply a stain specially intended for decking - make sure it is spirit based.
Regards S

[Trapezeartist]

Hi trapezeartist
Pressure wash the decking, allow to dry thoroughly and then apply a stain specially intended for decking - make sure it is spirit based.
Regards S

"Dry thoroughly": that's a bit tricky at the moment!

What's wrong with water-based?

[stoneyboy]

Hi trapezeartist.
Decking has been treated with a stain containing wax when new, water based stain will not stick on it very well. Over time the original coating wears off so you might be ok using water based if your decking is well weathered. The choice is yours, I can’t help with the weather.
Regards S