Picture your backyard on a warm summer evening. Your deck is the heart of your home, but is its color fading away? Redwood is a beautiful, natural material, but it needs the right protection to keep that rich, glowing hue. Without the proper care, your stunning outdoor space can quickly turn gray, weathered, and dull.
Choosing the perfect stain feels like an impossible task. You walk into the hardware store and see hundreds of cans. Do you want a transparent finish or a solid color? Will it protect against harsh rain and intense sun? It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the technical labels and conflicting advice. The wrong choice can lead to peeling, cracking, and even more work for you next season.
This guide takes the stress out of your project. You will learn how to identify the best products for your specific deck type and climate. We break down the differences between oil-based and water-based options so you can pick the winner with confidence. You will also discover simple tips for a smooth application that lasts for years.
Are you ready to restore your deck to its former glory? Let’s dive into the best redwood stains on the market and get your outdoor space ready for the season.
Top Redwood Stain For Decks Recommendations
- NO LAPS, RUNS OR STREAKS: Goof Proof formula with no back brushing required; ideal for exterior wood projects
- OUTSTANDING DURABILITY: No cracking, chipping, flaking or peeling with excellent moisture resistance and UV protection; great for outdoor decks, fences, wood siding and more
- CAN WITHSTAND RAIN WITHIN MINUTES OF APPLICATION: Can also be applied in direct sunlight
- HIGH AND LOW TEMPERATURE APPLICATION: Requires no wet-line application, the product will blend itself and can be applied in any temperature range for proper application
- EASY TO APPLY AND MAINTAIN: Low odor formula may be applied using sprayer, roller or brush onto the wood's surface; no sanding or stripping required for reapplication
- NO LAPS, RUNS OR STREAKS: Goof Proof formula with no back brushing required; ideal for exterior wood projects
- OUTSTANDING DURABILITY: No cracking, chipping, flaking or peeling with excellent moisture resistance and UV protection; great for outdoor decks, fences, wood siding and more
- CAN WITHSTAND RAIN WITHIN MINUTES OF APPLICATION: Can also be applied in direct sunlight
- HIGH AND LOW TEMPERATURE APPLICATION: Requires no wet-line application, the product will blend itself and can be applied in any temperature range for proper application
- EASY TO APPLY AND MAINTAIN: Low odor formula may be applied using sprayer, roller or brush onto the wood's surface; no sanding or stripping required for reapplication
- High-Quality Protection - It is designed to protect, renew, and beautify both new and weathered wood surfaces. Provides a flat, solid finish with latex formulation.
- Easy Application and Clean-Up - Dries to the touch in 30 minutes, ready for recoat in 2 hours, and fully usable in 4 to 6 hours. Cleanup is simple with soap and water, making maintenance and application easy.
- Excellent Coverage - Covers up to 300 sq. ft. per gallon when applied to smooth, nonporous surfaces, ensuring efficient use of product.
- Durable and Versatile - Ideal for exterior siding and compatible with wood surfaces. Recommended for fences, planter boxes, furniture and railings.
- Proven Quality - Established in Cleveland, Ohio, Sherwin-Williams has over 150 years of experience in producing high-quality paints, stains, and coatings.
- Weather-ready application allows you to clean and stain on the same day in temperatures down to 35°F, stain is ready for rain in 8 hours
- Penetrating, durable Wood Stain and Sealant in One protects and beautifies wood in one step
- Durable wood stain formula features advanced SunBlock UV defense, exclusive SCUFF GUARD technology and enhanced waterproofing protection
- Wood stain coating protects the surface from moisture and water damage
- Recommended for use on exterior wood decks, fences, siding, railings, outdoor furniture and other wood surfaces
- A translucent oil finish that protects and beautifies wood's natural appearance
- Water repellent; deep penetrating
- Ideal for decks, siding, fences and trim
- Available in 5 wood toned colors
- Not intended for interior surfaces
- STORM PROTECTOR: Storm Protector is a penetrating, semi-transparent stain and sealer that highlights the natural beauty of the wood grain while providing protection from Mother Nature.
- PROTECT YOUR EXTERIOR WOOD SURFACES: This siding, deck and fence stain and sealer offers superior waterproofing and UV protection to help prevent color fading.
- FOR A VARIETY OF WOOD SUBSTRATES: Storm Protector exterior wood stain and sealer can be applied to any exterior wood, including redwood, cedar, pine, douglas fir, spruce, cypress, mahogany and pressure treated lumber.
- EASY TO APPLY: Storm Protector features a ready-to-use formula that's easy to apply. Mix thoroughly and apply to a prepared wood surface with a brush, roller, or sprayer. Packaged in a 1-gallon container.
- PROTECTION TO WEATHER WHATEVER: From clear finishes that protect wood and highlight its natural beauty to more dramatic solid color stains, Storm Stain offers the look you want as well as the protection to weather whatever.
- Wood Stain and Sealer in One - This product works as a wood stain and water sealer for wood - it simultaneously adds color and protects your outdoor wood surfaces for years to come.
- Waterproof Wood Sealer Protection - DEFY Essential deck stain offers effective waterproofing, safeguarding your wood from moisture and water damage.
- Durable And Long-Lasting - This deck stain and sealer is made with durable acrylic resins that provide long-term protection and resists cracking, peeling, and fading.
- Easy Application - This outdoor wood sealer is suitable for use on all wood types, including deck staining, fence stain, patios, and pergolas. Cleanup is easy with soap and water. 250 VOC compliant.
- Easy Application - This outdoor wood sealer is suitable for use on all wood types, including deck staining, fence stain, patios, and pergolas. Cleanup is easy with soap and water. 250 VOC compliant.
- ONE‑COAT PROTECTION: Oil‑base formula seals and protects exterior wood surfaces in a single coat, delivering strong defense against water and UV exposure
- READY FOR NEW OR WEATHERED WOOD: Can be applied to new, old, or weathered wood once properly cleaned, helping protect surfaces from early moisture and UV damage
- RUGGED DURABILITY: Helps prevent cracking, splitting, and warping to maintain wood integrity in outdoor environments
- UNIFORM FINISH: Turbo Spray System ensures complete coverage and consistent color; product can be back‑brushed or wiped if needed for an even appearance
- VERSATILE OUTDOOR USE: Ideal for decks, fences, lattice, and wood furniture; suitable for previously sealed surfaces
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Redwood Deck Stain
A beautiful deck is the heart of your backyard. Redwood stain brings out the rich, warm tones of your wood and protects it from the elements. Choosing the right product can feel overwhelming, but this guide will make it simple.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for stain, look for these three things:
- UV Protection: The sun fades wood quickly. A good stain acts like sunscreen for your deck.
- Water Repellency: Water should bead up on the surface instead of soaking into the wood. This prevents rot and warping.
- Opacity Level: You can choose between transparent, semi-transparent, and solid stains. Transparent stains show the wood grain. Solid stains cover the wood like paint.
Important Materials
Stains usually fall into two categories: oil-based or water-based.
Oil-Based Stains
These penetrate deep into the wood fibers. They offer excellent protection and a rich look. However, they take longer to dry and have a stronger smell.
Water-Based Stains
These are better for the environment. They dry very fast and are easy to clean up with soap and water. Modern water-based stains are very durable and resist cracking well.
Factors That Affect Quality
Several things change how well your stain performs.
First, consider the wood condition. Old, dry wood absorbs stain differently than new wood. You must clean the deck thoroughly before applying any product. If the wood is dirty, the stain will not stick.
Second, look at the pigment quality. High-quality stains use better pigments. These pigments resist fading much longer than cheap alternatives.
Finally, climate matters. If you live in a rainy area, choose a stain with strong mildew inhibitors. If you live in a sunny area, prioritize high UV protection.
User Experience and Use Cases
Most homeowners want a stain that is easy to apply. If you are a beginner, look for a product that you can roll or spray on.
For a deck that gets lots of foot traffic, use a durable, penetrating oil stain. It is easier to touch up later without sanding the whole deck. If you want a dramatic change in color, a solid stain is your best choice. It hides imperfections and gives your deck a fresh, uniform look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I re-stain my deck?
A: Most decks need a new coat every 2 to 3 years. Check your deck by pouring a little water on it. If it soaks in, it is time to re-stain.
Q: Do I need to sand my deck before staining?
A: Yes, if the wood is rough or has old, peeling stain. Sanding opens the pores of the wood so the stain can soak in better.
Q: Can I apply stain over old paint?
A: No. You must remove the old paint first. Stain needs to touch the bare wood to work correctly.
Q: How long does the stain take to dry?
A: Water-based stains dry in about 2 to 4 hours. Oil-based stains can take 24 hours or longer to dry completely.
Q: What is the best weather for staining?
A: Pick a day that is dry and mild. Avoid staining in direct, hot sunlight or when rain is in the forecast.
Q: Do I need a primer?
A: Usually, no. Most deck stains are designed to go directly onto clean, bare wood.
Q: How much stain do I need?
A: Measure your deck’s square footage. One gallon of stain typically covers about 200 to 300 square feet.
Q: Should I use a brush or a roller?
A: A brush is best for getting into cracks and corners. A roller or sprayer works great for large, flat areas.
Q: Is redwood stain only for redwood decks?
A: No. You can use redwood-colored stain on pine, cedar, or other types of wood to give them that classic reddish glow.
Q: How do I clean my deck before staining?
A: Use a deck cleaner and a stiff-bristle brush. Rinse it well and let the wood dry for at least 48 hours before applying the stain.