Stain is usually the preferred way to finish pressure-treated lumber because it soaks better into the wood and is easier to apply than paint is. However, there are fewer color options available, and stain won't fill in small cracks in the wood as paint will.
The good news is that yes, you can absolutely paint pressure treated lumber. In fact, it's recommended to apply a protective layer of paint or stain, increasing its health, longevity, and beauty. After all, pressure treated wood has a strong start, but it won't last forever.
You will want to wait a few days before you start staining – at least 24 hours is recommended, but you can also try the sprinkle test mentioned above. You'll definitely want to make sure the lumber is dry before staining. Freshly treated lumber will not absorb stain like it should unless it has had time.
The best coating for pressure-treated wood is typically an exterior-grade, water-resistant sealant or stain. Look for products specifically designed for use on pressure-treated wood, such as acrylic or oil-based stains that offer protection against UV rays and moisture.
Pressure-treated wood is a porous material. Without stain, any type of paint or sealant, rainwater, dew or snow can easily penetrate the decking. The wood will then swell until it dries when it will shrink again.
Yes. Although pressure-treated lumber is pre-treated with chemicals, preventing insect damage, it is NOT waterproofed. In fact, the chemical treatment actually causes the lumber to dry out quicker and absorb more water than untreated lumber.
One more thing that you need to consider is the quality and type of wood. If the wood is oily such as cedar/redwood. Then you should consider going for an oil-based stain because it goes well with that type of wood. Also, the wood from pressure-treated pine goes well with water deck stains.
Consumer Reports just tested 76 products under tough conditions that accelerate the effects of the elements, from spring showers to summer sun to the sleet and snow that can torment siding and decks in colder months. Sherwin-Williams won big among paints, while Behr took home top honors among stains.
The short answer is yes. While pressure treatment protects against insects and rot, sealing is necessary to protect the wood from moisture and mildew.
Timber Oil deep penetrating stain is a great choice for new and aged pressure treated pine wood. New pine should be cleaned and brightened before staining. The Brown Sugar or Amaretto colors usually look best on pressure treated pine.
Leave the original stain in place if you want to stain the piece a darker color. If you're going from a light stain to a dark stain, there's no need to strip away the existing stain first. However, keep in mind that the existing stain may alter the color of the finished product.
Just sprinkle some water onto the lumber. If the water beads on the surface, the wood is too wet — you'll need to give it more time to dry. If the wood absorbs the water quickly, it's ready for coverage. You also need to pay attention to the weather to determine timing.
The best paint to use for pressure-treated wood is high quality, exterior latex paint (avoid using oil-based paints). Exterior latex paint is a water-based paint which is perfect for your pressure-treated wood.
Although you often see pressure-treated lumber left as-is, no rule says you can't finish it. But keep a couple of things in mind if you choose to go that route. Upon emerging from the pressure-treating process, the wood contains a lot of moisture that may interfere with stains or finishes.
Prepare the Surfaces
Untreated wood should always be sanded well, if treated wood is being finished, it must be washed thoroughly to make sure all contaminants have been removed. Generally speaking, it's not a good idea to sand pressure treated lumber.
Decks that are stained require less maintenance than decks that are painted. A stain will need to be reapplied after 2-3 years, while the paint will last between 5-10 years before it needs to be recoated. However, this doesn't factor in any scratches and chipping that may occur to your deck.
Even if the initial cost of the Behr product is lower, the increased coverage of the Sherwin Williams product means that Sherwin Williams can provide the better value in many situations. The next component of value is durability.
Pros of Using Stain Finish on Decks
Unlike paint, stain highlights the wood's natural grain pattern and texture instead of covering it. It creates a more natural, organic look that complements the surrounding landscape and adds warmth and character to your deck.
If the deck is made with pressure-treated woods, the stain will adhere better than paint. If pressure-treated woods are used, stain seeps into the deck, becoming a part of the deck rather than an added layer, which means that it won't chip, crack or flake.
A wood deck cleaner can help remove dirt, nail stains, algae and mildew. If your deck isn't brand-new, always use a cleaner before applying finish. Lack of preparation is the most common reason why deck stains and sealers fail, so don't skip this very important step.
The most popular stain color for decks generally depends on the type of deck wood and the overall aesthetic of the surroundings. However, some universally appealing choices include natural wood tones like cedar, redwood, and walnut.
Ideally, wood that has been treated with a preserver should also be treated with a suitable top coat such as an wood oil, wood paint or wood varnish. These top-coat products seal in the preserver and provide protection against weathering and wear from direct contact.
On average, Thompson's water seal will last for about 5 years.
If staining pressure treated fence posts, deck rails or other vertical surfaces, start at the top and work your way down. Know how long to wait before staining pressure treated wood. Most stains need 24 to 48 hours to dry. Plus, check your local weather to avoid staining during rainy or humid days.