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Choosing the right deck stain for your pressure treated wood is a challenging task especially if you don’t know much about stains. There are many options available and finding the perfect one can be tough. The best semi transparent deck stain for pressure treated wood depends on what you’re looking for in terms of aesthetics, performance, and durability.
We will take a look at some popular brands below to help make this decision a little easier.
- Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain for Decks, Fences, & Siding – 1 Gallon (Dark Walnut)-Best Semi-Transparent Stain for Pressure Treated Wood
- #1 Deck Wood Deck Paint and Sealer – Advanced Solid Color Deck Stain for Decks, Fences, Siding – 1 Gallon (Dark Walnut)
- DeckWise Ipe Oil Hardwood Deck Semi-Transparent 250 VOC Natural Finish (1-Gallon)
- DeckWise Ipe Oil Plus Hardwood Deck Semi-Transparent 250 VOC Natural Finish (1-Gallon)-Best Oil-Based Deck Stain for Pressure Treated Wood
- Deck Premium Wood Fence Stain and Sealer – Semi-Transparent Fence Sealer (1 Gallon, Gray)
- DEFY Essential Semi Transparent Exterior Deck Stain and Sealer – One Day Deck Stain & Fence Stain – Cedar Tone, 1 Gallon
- Defy Extreme Wood Stain Light Walnut 1-gallon
- Defy Extreme Wood Stain Natural Pine 1-gallon
What Is Semi Transparent Deck Stain?
Semi transparent deck stains are a type of stain that do not cover up the wood’s natural grain pattern. You can still see imperfections and knots in this product which adds to its aesthetic appeal. Semi-transparent looks good on any types of woods, including cedar, redwood, pine and pressure treated lumber.
Advantages And Disadvantages of Semi-Transparent Deck Stain
Advantages
- It is easy to apply
- Does not require a lot of maintenance over time
- Has low odor levels when in use underwatering or excessive heat conditions.
- It will also help protect your wood from mildew, algae and UV rays.
Disadvantages
- It can take up to two coats before you see the full effect.
- They look more aesthetically pleasing when all surfaces are stained.
- Semi-transparent versions need reapplication annually or biyearly depending on the brand you choose to use.
What Is Solid Deck Stain?
Solid deck stains are a type of stain that do not allow any light to pass through. You can call this product as opaque and it completely covers the wood’s natural grain pattern. Solid color is very common on decks because it hides imperfections and knots, and looks great on almost all types of woods including cedar, redwood pine and pressure treated lumber.
Advantages And Disadvantages of Solid Deck Stain
Advantages
- Easy application.
- Minimal maintenance over time.
- Has a low odor level when in use.
- It will help protect your wood from mildew, algae and UV rays.
Disadvantages
- It is not easy to see the wood’s natural grain pattern.
- Costs more per gallon compared with semi-transparent versions.
- Solid deck stains are not as aesthetically pleasing.
Difference Between Semi-Transparent and Solid Deck Stain
- Semi-transparent deck stains are good for people who like to see the natural grain pattern in their wood while solid deck stains provide more protection since they can last longer than semi-transparent versions but solid will always cover the wood’s natural grain pattern up completely.
- Semi-transparent deck stains products have an aesthetic appeal and only require minimal maintenance over time as well as having low odor levels when in use while solid staining provides a protective coating that lasts for years and does not require a lot of maintenance over time.
- Both types come in many colors and they both help protect your wood from mildew, algae and UV rays.
- Both of them are great for areas with high traffic.
- Semi-transparent deck stains are known to be easier to apply while solid staining requires more effort and time to apply.
- Semi-transparent deck stains can be used on any types of wood while solid staining is not recommended for cedar, redwood or pine woods.
Benefits Of Semi-Transparent Deck Stain
There are many benefits to using semi-transparent deck stain. A few of them include:
- Easy to apply.
- Can be used on any type of wood.
- It allows you see your wood’s natural beauty.
- Minimal maintenance over time.
- Has a low odor level when in use.
- It is also great for areas that receive significant amounts of foot traffic since it lasts for years.
How To Stain Pressure Treated Deck
Step 1: Prepping the Surface
Ensure that your deck is clean and dry. For best results, use a pressure washer to remove all dirt, mildew stains or any other contaminants from the surface of your wood. You can also choose to sand down stubborn spots before hand if needed but make sure not to damage the wood in process by using too much pressure.
Step 2: Applying the Stain to Your Wood
Use a paint brush or roller applicator and apply an even coat of deck stain over the entire surface. Take care not to miss any areas since this will leave wood that is not stained which can be damaging if left untreated for too long. For best results, try to use long straight strokes which will help to prevent any missed spots or stains that are too thick.
Step 3: Letting the Stain Dry
Allow your deck stain to dry for approximately three hours before applying a second coat in order to receive full coverage of the wood’s surface. Each brand may take more or less time than others so it is best to check the instructions on your container to avoid any issues with this step.
Step 4: Finishing Touches and Cleaning
Use a clean cloth or towel as well as some mineral spirits to buff out any streaks or thick spots that may have formed during application throughout the day. After you’ve finished cleaning, allow your deck stain to dry for another 24 hours before applying a second coat.
Step 5: Protecting Your Deck Stain and Keeping It Beautiful Over Time
To keep your deck stain looking great for years to come, make sure that you always apply an even layer of protective sealant over the top of the wood’s surface at least once every year or so. This will help to protect your deck from any harsh weather conditions and it will also make cleaning a breeze when needed.
Related Post: The Best Exterior Polyurethane: How to Choose The Right One For Your Home
Top 8 Best Semi Transparent Deck Stain for Pressure Treated Wood
1. Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain for Decks, Fences, & Siding – 1 Gallon (Dark Walnut)
- PROTECTS AGAINST COLOR FADE AND PREVENTS GRAYING - #1 Deck Protects Wood From Damage Caused By Exposure to the Elements. Can Be Used On Pressure Treated Pine, Cedar, Fir, Redwood, or Most Other Softwoods. Hardwoods Will Require More Frequent Maintenance Coats.
- BOTH A DECK STAIN & DECK SEALANT IN ONE - #1 Deck Stain Is a Dual-Purpose Stain & Sealer. It Adds Color to Your Wood and Seals it, Preventing Damage Caused by Water Penetration.
- ALLOWS THE WOOD GRAIN TO SHOW THROUGH - Available in 5 Beautiful, Semi-Transparent Deck Stain Colors That Dry to Flat, Natural Looking Finishes That Will Enhance the Beauty of Your Exterior Wood.
- BETTER FOR THE PLANET, EASY SOAP & WATER CLEANUP - With Less Than 50 g/L VOC Content, #1 Deck Sealer Is a Better Choice For Our Planet. Clean Up is Super Easy - Just Use Soap and Water.
- WORKS ON DAMP WOOD, MINIMIZING THE WAIT TIME BETWEEN CLEANING AND STAINING - Once Your Wood Deck Is Visibly Dry, It's Ready to Stain.
The Deck Premium Semi-Transparent Wood Stain for Decks, Fences and Siding is a great choice for those looking for a durable and long lasting stain. This product is ready to use right out of the can and will not crack or peel over time. The fade resistant formula provides excellent coverage, making it great for larger projects. This product requires no sanding between coats unless there are stubborn spots that need this extra step before application. No primer is necessary for application.
Pros
- The stain is extremely durable and will not fade or peel over time
- It can be versatile depending on how you choose to use it
- Application extremely fast and easy
- The Stain is Ready to Use
- Easy clean up
Cons
- The product may be too dark in some cases
- Need a lot of help to make a smooth application
- This product is best used by someone with experience
2.1 Deck Wood Deck Paint and Sealer – Advanced Solid Color Deck Stain for Decks, Fences, Siding – 1 Gallon (Dark Walnut)
- Opaque Finish Completely Hides Wood Grain & Provides Maximum Protection Against Fading & Graying Caused by Damaging UV Rays
- Acts as Both a Stain and Sealer for Your Wood - Use Over Top of Existing, Solid Color Wood Stains (that still have good adhesion)
- Available in 6 Beautiful, Solid Color Finishes That Dry to a Flat, Natural Looking Finish
- Low Odor Stain, Water-Based Cleanup - Low VOCs (<60 g/L)
- For Use on all Horizontal and Vertical Wood Surfaces Including Pressure Treated Lumber, Pine, Cedar, Fir, Redwood, Mahogany, & More
Product Description
The Deck Wood Stain and Sealer is a great way to protect your deck from the elements while still allowing the wood grain to show through. The dark walnut color is perfect for adding a bit of contrast to your pressure-treated wood without completely covering it up. This product is also fade-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about it losing its color over time. The coverage is approximately 200 square feet per gallon, making it a great choice for larger projects. You won’t need to sand between coats unless there are stubborn spots that need this extra step before application. And best of all, no primer is necessary for application.
Pros
- The stain is extremely durable and will not fade or peel over time
- It can be versatile depending on how you choose to use it
- Application extremely fast and easy
- Ready to use
Cons
- Requires multiple coats to make a proper appearance
- Can be difficult for some people to see over as it is dark
3.DeckWise Ipe Oil Hardwood Deck Semi-Transparent 250 VOC Natural Finish (1-Gallon)
- RESTRICTED: Ground Shipping ONLY: Can NOT be shipped to California areas including but not limited to LA SCAQMD
- Perfect for all exterior hardwood and thermal wood surfaces including decking, fences and railings
- Trans oxide pigments offer a slight brown tint for UV defense and enhances the natural wood beauty
- Low 250 VOC oil-based formula minimizes odors penetrating deep to protect from within
- Easy one coat application dries without a surface film that will NOT crack, bubble, or peel
Product Description
The DeckWise Ipe Oil Hardwood Semi-Transparent 250 VOC Natural Finish is one of the best deck stains on the market today for pressure treated wood decks and other hardwoods such as ipe, mahogany, walnut and more. This product features a water based formula which is non-toxic and environmentally friendly. It also has a great semi transparent appearance which will not alter the natural wood color of your deck or hardwood floors while still preserving them for years to come with its long lasting sealer. This product covers 250 square feet per gallon and requires no sanding between coats unless there are stubborn spots that need this extra step before application.
Pros
- The product is safe to use on almost any surface
- Provides a long lasting finish with the sealer coating
- Comes in a variety of colors
- Water based formula
- Is easy to clean up
- Environmentally friendly
Cons
- The product may be too dark for some people’s liking
- Requires multiple coats to make a proper appearance
- Can be difficult for some people to see over as it is dark
- Takes long to dry
4.DeckWise Ipe Oil Plus Hardwood Deck Semi-Transparent 250 VOC Natural Finish (1-Gallon)
- RESTRICTED: Ground Shipping ONLY: Can NOT be shipped to California areas including but not limited to LA SCAQMD
- Perfect for all exterior hardwood and thermal wood surfaces including decking, fences and railings
- Trans oxide pigments offer a slight brown tint for UV defense and enhances the natural wood beauty
- Low 250 VOC oil-based formula minimizes odors penetrating deep to protect from within
- Easy one coat application dries without a surface film that will NOT crack, bubble, or peel
Product Description
The DeckWise Ipe Oil Plus Hardwood Semi-Transparent 250 VOC Natural Finish is one of the best deck stains on the market today for pressure treated wood decks and other hardwoods such as ipe, mahogany, walnut and more. This product features a water based formula which is non-toxic and environmentally friendly. It also has a great semi transparent appearance which will not alter the natural wood color of your deck or hardwood floors while still preserving them for years to come with its long lasting sealer.
Pros
- The product is safe to use on almost any surface
- Provides a long lasting finish with the sealer coating
- Comes in a variety of colors
- Water based formula
- Is easy to clean up
- Environmentally friendly
Cons
- Requires multiple coats to make a proper appearance
- Can be difficult for some people to see over as it is dark
- Takes long to dry
5.Deck Premium Wood Fence Stain and Sealer – Semi-Transparent Fence Sealer (1 Gallon, Gray)
- Long Lasting Fence Sealer - 3 Year Warranty on Fences
- Easy to Apply Water-Based Fence Stain - Use an Airless or Pump Sprayer, or Brush & Roller
- Available in 5 Semi-Transparent Colors Including Driftwood Gray, Natural, Cedar, Dark Walnut, & Light Walnut
- Waterproof Protection for All Wood Surfaces Including Fences, Decks, Siding, Log Home Boards
- Resists Fading, Graying, & Peeling on All Vertical Wood Surfaces
Product Description
#1 Deck is the premium wood fence stain and sealer on the market today. This product features a water-based formula that is non-toxic and environmentally friendly. It also has a great semi-transparent appearance which will not alter the natural wood color of your fence or hardwood floors while still preserving them for years to come with its long-lasting sealer. It is also easy to clean up and comes in a variety of colors.
Pros
- The product is safe to use on almost any surface
- Provides a long lasting finish with the sealer coating
- Comes in a variety of colors
- Water based formula
- Is easy to clean up
- Environmentally friendly
Cons
- Requires multiple coats to make a proper appearance
- Can be difficult for some people to see over as it is dark
- Takes long to dry
6. DEFY Essential Semi Transparent Exterior Deck Stain and Sealer – One Day Deck Stain & Fence Stain – Cedar Tone, 1 Gallon
- Adds Color & Highlights Wood Grain - Adds a beautiful, natural looking, flat finish to exterior wood surfaces while allowing the natural beauty of the wood grain to show through.
- One Day Deck Stain - Your time is valuable, and now you can clean and stain your wood the same day. Clean in the morning, stain in the afternoon once the wood is visibly dry.
- Easy to Use - This outdoor wood stain is easy to use, and easy to apply. Use a pump-up sprayer, brush and roller, or airless sprayer for easy application.
- Deck Stain and Sealer - Get the benefits of both stain and sealer. Great for use on decks, siding, playsets, as well for use as a fence stain and sealer.
- Quality That Lasts - DEFY Essential is made with the latest advancements in acrylic waterborne technology. Better quality ingredients means a longer lasting finish.
Product Description
DEFY Essential Semi-Transparent Exterior Wood Stain is a unique water-based wood stain that penetrates deep into the wood to deliver long-lasting protection against the elements. This stain is fortified with zinc nano-particles and UV blockers to protect the wood from the sun’s harmful rays. It also contains a mildewcide to help prevent the growth of mold and mildew on the surface of the wood. This stain is available in Cedar Tone and can be used on pressure-treated wood, fences, decks, and other exterior wood surfaces.
Pros
- The water-based formula penetrates deep into the wood for long-lasting protection
- Fortified with zinc Zano-particles and UV blockers to protect the wood from the sun’s harmful rays
- Contains a mildewcide to help prevent the growth of mold and mildew
- Available in Cedar Tone
- Can be used on pressure-treated wood, fences, decks, and other exterior wood surfaces
Cons
- May require multiple coats for full coverage
- May not be suitable for all types of wood
7. Defy Extreme Wood Stain Light Walnut 1-gallon
- Utilizing Nano-Particles and Synthetic Resins. Nano Light-Stabilizers block the sun's harmful UV rays preventing graying
- Nano particles help prevent mold and algae
- Semi-Transparent wood finish adds color and protection to your wood
- Stains and seals your wood from water penetration
- Water-Based with easy soap and water cleanup
Product Description
Defy Extreme Wood Stain is a water-based stain that penetrates deep into the wood to deliver long-lasting results. It is ideal for pressure-treated wood and can be used on decks, fences, siding, and other exterior wood surfaces. This Light Walnut stain provides a natural-looking finish that will enhance the beauty of your wood. It is also easy to clean and maintain, so you can enjoy your deck or fence for years to come. It is fortified with Zinc Zanoate, a powerful UV inhibitor that helps to protect the wood from sun damage.
Pros
- Durable
- Long-lasting
- Protects against sun damage
- Easy to clean and maintain
- UV protection
Cons
- May require more than one coat for the desired color
- Can be difficult to apply it evenly
8. Defy Extreme Wood Stain Natural Pine 1-gallon
- Water-Based Semi-Transparent Wood Stain – This water-based deck stain allows the wood grain to show through with a beautiful semi-transparent, natural matte finish. It's great for staining wood decks, fences, siding, playsets, outdoor patio furniture, and more.
- Fortified With Zinc Nano-Particle Technology – It’s like sunscreen for your wood. Tiny zinc particles dispersed throughout the stain reflect damaging UV rays, preventing premature graying and color loss.
- Durable Quality That Lasts – DEFY Extreme wood stains are made with the highest quality resins available that have better resistance to fading and darkening.
- Easy to Maintain - DEFY is easy to apply and maintain by applying a single maintenance coat of DEFY Extreme Wood Stain when the wood starts to show signs of wear.
- 250 VOC Compliant - Water based and VOC compliant everywhere except California.
Product Description
Defy Extreme Wood Stain is a semi-transparent wood stain formulated to protect and enhance the beauty of exterior wooden surfaces in the toughest conditions. This high-performance stain resists fading, and staining and maintains its beautiful appearance for longer. It is ideal for pressure-treated wood, decks, siding, and fences. It is 250 VOC compliant to meet the most stringent air quality regulations. It is also easy to apply, clean, and maintain. Defy Extreme Wood Stain is available in Natural Pine, Cedar, Redwood, and Honey Gold. It comes in a one-gallon can.
Pros
- Durable
- Resists fading, staining, and mildew
- Maintains its beautiful appearance for longer
- 250 VOC compliant
- Easy to apply
- Easy to clean
- Easy to maintain
- Available in four colors
Cons
- May not be suitable for very porous surfaces
FAQs On Best Semi Transparent Deck Stain for Pressure Treated Wood
What Is the Best Semi-Transparent Deck Stain Colors?
There are many different colors available from each brand including: solid, faux wood and weathered wood tones. Look at your home’s exterior as well as surrounding homes to help determine the best color for your deck stain.
How Much Deck Stain Do I Need to Buy?
Each deck stain will be different depending on the brand and type of wood you’re staining. It is recommended that you purchase a gallon more than what you estimate as this should give you enough product for two coats without having any leftovers if needed.
Is There Any Way I Could Get This Product in A Different Color?
While there are several colors available for the stain, you can also mix it with paint to get an even more personalized look. This would be great if you wanted your deck to have a certain color to it.
What Is the Best Way to Prepare My Deck for This Product?
The best way to properly prepare your pressure treated wood deck would be by cleaning and sanding it before applying the stain. This will ensure that the product is properly adhering to your deck and it won’t peel off.
How Long Does This Finish Usually Last?
The Semi transparent deck stain should last up to four years on your deck when applied correctly.
Related Post: Does Wood Stain Go Bad?
Conclusion
Semi transparent deck stain is a great way to keep your pressure treated wood looking its best without having to use harsh chemicals or solvents such as turpentine. While this stain takes a few more coats than regular deck stains to give you the desired look, it is well worth the effort and time in order to get that natural wood appearance without altering its color or sheen.
