When it comes to the type of wood deck, the best certainly has to be pressure-treated wood. These are of superior quality in every way possible and offer a myriad of benefits. Pressure-treated wood goes through a specific process that allows it to be durable, long-lasting, and susceptible to different kinds of damage from mold, debris, and mildew.

Yet, despite that, it is recommended that one consistently apply deck stains to pressure-treated wood. Decks tend to be exposed to a multitude of environmental elements regularly. For this reason, they require ultimate protection; this comes from wood stains. They enhance their durability and ensure that they continue to stay as good as new for years to come.

You can find many deck stains in the market; however, only the best is suitable for pressure-treated wood. In this guide, we will walk you through the best stains for pressure-treated wood, why it is important to apply a stain, how to apply the stain, and much more.

Why Do We Need Deck Stains for Pressure Treated Wood?

Since pressure-treated wood is already extremely durable, you might be wondering, why is there a need to apply a deck stain in the first place?

Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy when you apply stains on pressure treated wooden decks:

1. Protection from rust and extreme weather conditions

A pressure-treated wood provides protection to the interior of the deck. However, when you apply a deck stain, you are providing protection all over the exterior. This ensures that no mold, mildew, or any moisture builds up that might lead to corrosion and rust.

2. It seals harmful chemicals

Most stains also double as effective sealants. For example, this two-in-one solution helps seal in any of the arsenic and harmful chemicals that come from certain types of pressure-treated wood. It does this by penetrating the wood and sealing it so that no new harmful chemicals seep inside or old chemicals come out.

3. Provide aesthetic benefits

Deck stains come in various color tones; hence, they can help accentuate the look of your deck. Furthermore, when you apply your deck stain, it gives it a new flair. All in all, your deck begins to look more beautiful.

Best Stains for Pressure Treated Wood

Now that you know of the significance of applying deck stains to pressure-treated wood, here is a list of the best options for stains you have. We have compiled this list from our research of the best stains based on their performance, customer reviews, quality, and formulation.

1. Ready Seal Oil-Based Stain

One of the most high-quality stains that are suitable for pressure-treated wood is the Ready Seal Oil-Based Stain. A great thing about this is that it is both a sealant and stain, providing multiple functions simultaneously. It provides a flawless finish to the deck, is easy to apply, and does not require much maintenance.

 This oil-based wood stain provides hassle-free application because it does not require any priming, stripping, or sanding beforehand. The formulation is also the perfect consistency, so you do not need to thin it out prior to application. The formulation additionally allows it to penetrate the wood as well effectively.

Top Features

• It does not require any primer, sanding, or stripping
• You can use a variety of applicants, including rollers, paintbrushes, and sprayers
• You can apply it at any time since it is not extremely sensitive to temperature changes
• It does not require dilution beforehand

Advantages

• Stain and sealer in one
• Enhances the look of the wood by giving it natural beauty
• Easy and hassle-free to use

Disadvantages

• It appears dark and stays that way initially, but then starts lightening after a few days
• It has a slow drying time as it might take up to two weeks to dry

2. DEFY Extreme Wood Stain

The second choice on our list of the best stains for pressure-treated wood is the DEFY Extreme Wood Stain. This water-based stain ensures an even application and accentuates the features of the deck through its rich color tones. In addition, since it is semi-transparent, it also simultaneously provides the wood a natural finish.

The formulation of the DEFY wood stain ensures protection against harmful UV rays from prolonged sun exposure. What makes this stain stand out from its competitors is that it is made from high-quality resin, ensuring greater durability and longevity. Thus, this stain can also be applied to fences, patio furniture, hardwood, and more.

Moreover, this is also an eco-friendly wood stain with a similar composition to sunscreen, making it the ultimate protector from sun exposure. The DEFY wood stain will last you for a couple of years and can also withstand wet climates. All you will need to do is apply a maintenance coat every now and then.  Additionally, cleaning will not be a hassle either since it is resistant to soap and water due to its water-based formulation.

Top Features

• It provides ultimate protection against UV rays
• It significantly enhances the durability of the deck
• It Will lasts you through a couple of seasons
• Easy cleaning since it is resistant to soap and water
• It can be applied through paintbrush, sprayer, or roller
• It is an eco-friendly option

Advantages

• Easy to maintain
• Provides a natural beauty to the deck
• Durable and long-lasting

Disadvantages

• You will need to apply a coat regularly for maintenance

3. Deck Wood Deck Paint and Sealer

Another top pick for the best stains for pressure-treated wood is the Deck Wood Deck Paint and Sealer. Due to its water-based formulation, it’s resistant to the harmful UV rays from sun exposure and water as well. For this reason, it is also easy to clean since all you need is water and soap.

This deck stain and sealer is extremely versatile because it can be used on any type of wood, including cedar, hardwood, timber, and mahogany. Hence, you can also apply this stain on outdoor furniture, gazebos, patio furniture, fences, and more. What makes it more versatile is the fact this stain and sealer combo comes in up to five different natural colors. So, depending on the color of your pressure-treated wood, you can get a Deck Wood stain that matches it the most accurately.

Top Features

• It comes in a variety of colors
• It can be used on a variety of surfaces and woods
• It is odorless
• Resistant to environmental damages such as mold and peeling
• It is water-resistant

Advantages

• It is a sealer and stain in one
• Easy to clean with soap and water
• Provides protection from UV rays

Disadvantages

• The formula tends to stain pretty easily

4. Timber Oil Deep Penetrating Stain

This is a transparent and oil-based wood deck stain, making it extremely easy to apply and provides flawless application. If you are looking for a stain that provides a matte finish that is completely natural, then this is the one you need to get. The stain does the job of protecting the deck and making it look fresh while simultaneously accentuating its natural features, such as by making the grains pop.

The application is also easy to achieve because you don’t need to prime, sand, or strip the deck before staining. In addition, since it’s oil-based, the product is not runny at all and is likely not to form puddles or spills.  You also get a lot of product from just one can, which is a great benefit if you are on a budget. For example, one can is likely to cover 150 square feet of area.

The Timber Oil Stain penetrates deeply into the pressure-treated wood making the stain last for much longer without compromising color or finish.

Top Features

• You can use any type of applicator to apply the stain, such as with a sprayer or paintbrush
• The semi-transparent stain provides a rich, flawless, matte finish while enhancing the natural features of the deck
• It penetrates deeply into the wood, refreshing the texture and wood from within
• You don’t need to sand or strip the deck prior to application

Advantages

• It is easy to apply and maintain
• Does not form drips or puddles
• Provides protection from UV rays
• Provides value for money as one gallon covers 150 square feet of space

Disadvantages

• It is not as dark as it claims to be; some might say it’s not semi-transparent but rather fully transparent

5. Olympic Stain Maximum Wood Stain and Sealer

The Olympic Stain Maximum Wood Stain and Sealer is one of the most convenient stains in the market for pressure-treated wood. It packs easy application, extreme convenience, versatility, and value for money all in one product. It is not just a stain and sealer in one product, but it can also be applied at any temperature. Whether it is hot or humid, or even rainy, you can apply this stain.

Moreover, this is the perfect stain to get if you are in a rush since it dries up really quickly. You also get a lot of product in one can. One can contains a gallon of stain that can be applied to an area of 250-300 square feet.

Top Features

• It can take as less as eight hours to completely dry
• It can even be applied to damp wood
• It provides a flawless yet natural finish
• It is water-resistant, so you will not need to waterproof the deck
• You can apply it in any weather

Advantages

• Provides high-quality protection in all seasons
• Long-lasting and durable
• Water-based sealer and stain is mold and mildew resistant
• Provides protection from UV rays

Disadvantages

• It leaves a slightly yellow sheen, which can be apparent in light-colored wooden decks

6. Cabot Semi-Solid Deck and Siding Stain

If you are looking for a perfect finish that also gives your pressure-treated wooden decks some color, then you should consider the Cabot semi-solid decking and siding stain. It provides a rich brown sheen that is not too harsh while simultaneously giving it ultra protection and beauty.

This is an oil-based stain, which means that it will penetrate deep into the wood and provide enhanced durability and longevity to the deck. If you have already given your deck a coating of a semi-transparent stain, but it is peeling off, the Cabot stain is the best one to apply on top of it. The formulation works well with any type of surface and textures, whether it is rough or smooth. For this reason, you can also use the stain on outdoor furniture, fences, roofs, and other surfaces.

Top Features

• The oil-based stain is easy to apply
• It is waterproof and mildew resistant
• One gallon can cover an area of 400 to 600 square feet
• It is low maintenance

Advantages

• Deep penetration that provides maximum protection
• Works well on all kinds of wooden surfaces Gives solid coverage that is also natural
• You only need one coat

Disadvantages

• Not suitable for interior surfaces or furniture

7. Restore-A-Deck Solid Colored Stain

If you are looking for an excellent stain for pressure-treated wood, Restore-A-Deck Solid Colored Stain is well worth considering. It is a water-based and semi-transparent stain that provides deep penetration in the small pores of the wooden deck. As a result, it provides enhanced protection from UV rays and longevity.

Since the stain is water-resistant, you can easily clean the deck using water and soap. Besides pressure-treated wood, this type of stain can also work on different types of fir, redwood, and cedar.

Top Features

• Provides deep penetration
• You can apply the same day as preparation
• It can be applied to most types of wood

Advantages

• It is a two-in-one sealer and stain
• Available in different types of finishes
• It has a low odor
• Easy to clean with soap and water
• Ultimate protection from UV rays from prolonged sun exposure

Disadvantages

• It is not as long-lasting as some consumers have reported peeling

8. Wolman Durastain

One of the top-selling stains for pressure-treated wood in the market is the Wolman Durastain. This semi-transparent and water-based stain only requires one coat for effective protection and finish. In addition, since it is semi-transparent, it gives your wooden deck a natural finish that enhances the wooden texture.

This stain protects from UV rays and moisture, mildew, and mold. In addition, the unique formulation of the stain is extremely water-resistant that helps reduce occurrences of wood splitting, cracking, and warping.

Top Features

• Provides protection from UV rays
• Protects wood from splitting, cracking, warping
• It gives a natural finish

Advantages

• It is an eco-friendly product
• It provides easy cleaning with soap and water
• You can apply it on a variety of surfaces
• It will not let the deck gray for up to a year

Disadvantages

• It has a strong odor
• Many customers have reported a bad experience with the application

9. Rain Guard Water Sealer

If you are looking for a resistant stain to different weather conditions, including humidity, snow, and rain, then the Rain Guard Water Sealer is the perfect option. Due to its excellent formulation, this stain will provide coverage for years without yellowing. It also ensures quick drying of the stain, so you will be done with staining a 300-foot square surface in no time.

Moreover, this clear sealer and stain are perfect for interior and exterior surfaces as it provides them with a natural sheen. Hence, it does not ruin the surface’s natural appearance but provides ultimate protection from damage caused by exposure to UV rays.  Additionally, the formulation is completely safe for you and the environment.

The stain is resistant to any damage from moisture, including mold and mildew. As a result, the deck will be protected for a long period of time. Ensure that your deck is completely dry before applying this stain so that there is maximum penetration.

Top Features

• Any applicator can be used to apply it; including sprayer, paintbrush, and roller
• Water-resistant
• Resistant to mold and mildew
• Resistant to different temperatures and weather conditions
• Easy to apply and dries quickly
• No maintenance required with this stain

Advantages

• It helps the deck retain the natural beauty
• Provides protection from UV rays
• There will likely be no yellowing effect
• It is durable and long-lasting

Disadvantages

• It only is available in two gallons, which might be too much for some people  

10. Seal-Once Nano + Poly Penetrating Wood Sealer

Even though the Seal-Once Nano + Poly Penetrating Wood Sealer provides the same performance as an oil-based stain. This means that it penetrates deep into the wood to provide maximum protection. It is one of the most perfect stains to use because it extends the life of your pressure-treated wooden deck. Particularly, it can provide protection anywhere from six to eleven, depending on the surface. This is because the nano-technology in the stain allows the wood to breathe and thus to makes it peel-proof.

Due to its excellent formulation, you do not need to mix the sealer with any kind of toxic chemical either. This means that the stain is completely safe to use. The stain is also resistant to any damage caused by moisture include mildew, mold, rot, and more. It even protects from UV rays.

Furthermore, you can easily apply the stain using a sprayer or paintbrush. First, however, ensure that the surface is completely clean and dry to allow maximum penetration.

Top Features

• One of the most long-lasting sealer and stains you can find in the market
• It does not require any mixing with harmful chemicals
• You can use it over an area of 200-250 square feet with one-gallon can

Advantages

• It has a quick drying time
• It does not have a strong odor
• Enhanced strength and protection due to the nano-technology and excellent formulation
• Offers peel-proof protection
• Quick and easy to apply

Disadvantages

• For proper penetration, the stain requires you to clean the surface prior to application thoroughly

11. Storm System Storm Protector Penetrating Sealer and Stain Protector

This is an excellent semi-transparent and oil-based stain that penetrates deep into the pressure-treated wood for effective results. It provides maximum protection to the deck from UV rays while enhancing its natural features. You can also apply it with any kind of applicator, whether it is a roller, sprayer, or brush. Either way, you will experience easy and smooth application.

Besides being an excellent choice for pressure-treated wood, it is also excellent for other woods like cedar, pinewood, mahogany, and many more. Moreover, despite the thick consistency of the stain, it has a short drying time. All in all, you will need to give the stain only 24 hours to dry completely. However, you don’t get enough value for money, considering that you can cover one gallon of this product on a 125 to 175 square feet surface.

Top Features

• Provides easy and simple application with a variety of applicators
• It is an oil-based two in one sealer and stain
• A versatile stain that can be applied on various types of wood

Advantages

• Has a quick drying time
• Enhances the natural beauty of the deck while providing maximum protection
• It penetrates deep in the wood for effective results
• Durable and long-lasting

Disadvantages

• It covers a relatively small area

Closing Thoughts

Using top-quality stains for pressure-treated wood is absolutely essential if you want to have a flawless finish that lasts long, is durable, and gives you the most value out of your money. It is important for you to consider the type of wood you have and which stain would work best with it. As a DIYer, you need one that provides the most effective results; hence spending plenty of time studying your options will help you choose the most suitable one for your pressure-treated wooden deck.