Are You Really Thinking About Using Behr Deck Stain?

            1/15/2010

            Homeowners across the nation have enjoyed many occasions on their decks, be it summer time barbecues, birthday parties, even graduation parties. Decks are a great tool to host friends, family, and a place where you can sit and enjoy some peace and quiet.

            However, that enjoyment usually fades pretty quickly when it comes time for deck maintenance. You, like many homeowners, probably wishes there was some kind of deck stain you could put on your deck, and have it look great for several years.

            Well, my friend, I am here to tell you there is really not a product out there that last 5-7 years like some deck stains claim they do. The main deck stain that claims such a thing is from Behr.

            Behr deck stains is an acrylic based deck stain that basically lays on the surface of the wood. There is really minimal (if any) penetration of this deck stain. It just coats the surface of the wood, similar to what paint would do.

            Over time, wood loses their natural oils. These oils need to be replenished to keep the wood from drying out and cracking. Behr does not do this. Since Behr only coats the surface of the wood, your wood deck is starving for these much needed oils it needs to maintain longevity.

            Another issue you will have using a Behr Deck Stain is the quality of the stain itself. Instead of lasting several years, you will be fortunate if it last several months on your horizontal surfaces. As a owner of a Deck Staining and Restoration St. Louis Company, we have found numerous times that Behr Stains like to flake or start peeling off of horizontal surfaces before the stain is a year old. And even though in some places it is flaking and peeling, Behr deck stains are extremely hard to strip off of the surface, and could be quite costly.

            Our recommendation is to always use an oil based deck stain. Clean the wood properly using a good deck cleaner and apply a good oil based deck stain. In 18-24 months, you will need a light cleaning and a reapplication of the oil based deck stain you used before to keep your deck looking great. Make sure you wait at least twenty four hours before walking on your deck. And when staining, make sure you always tape off next to the house to protect your vinyl siding. Have some cloths and some mineral spirits on hand just in case you get some stain on the siding so you can immediately wipe the stain off. Don’t wait until later, or you may have an issue.

            Happy Staining, and here’s to more great parties you’ll have on your deck!