Solid Stain vs Paint: Which is Better?

Looking to protect your siding or wooden deck? More than likely, you’re trying to choose between stain and paint, and you’re probably not sure which is better. Well, the answer is both, but for different reasons. To the average eye, they’re nearly indistinguishable from each other. Below, we’ll cover the differences between stain, paint, and why you pick one over the other. 

If you’re looking for professional exterior painting services, Pizzazz Painting can help. Our professional painters in South Jersey provide top-quality solid stain and exterior painting services. For more information, call us today at 609-702-8200. 

What Solid Stain Is

A solid stain is an option for protecting your wood siding or deck that soaks into the wood instead of sitting on top of it. It comes in a variety of colors and tends to preserve the natural texture of the wood when applied. 

Advantages of Solid Stain for Wooden Decks & Siding

There are a variety of advantages if you decide to stain your siding or deck. Stain is very easy to apply, and since there isn’t much need to prep the surface before applying, it doesn’t take long to do either. Staining preserves the natural texture of the wood and usually only takes one coat, meaning it’s more cost-effective than painting. 

In addition, stain allows the wood to breathe, allows moisture to escape, and is resistant to cracking, peeling, and blistering. 

Drawbacks of Staining

Staining doesn’t last as long as paint does. In fact, stain’s lifespan is about half that of paint. It’s less durable too, so it’ll start to fade with time. Since stains only last about five years, you will need to restrain your surfaces to maintain their color and protective qualities. Lastly, stains usually only come in one flat sheen and will highlight any imperfections in the texture of the wood. 

Paint for Decks

Advantages of Painted Decks & Siding

Painted decks and siding benefit from having a variety of color options and sheens available. Since paint sits on top of the wood, it’ll effectively cover any imperfections in the wood. Most importantly, if it’s applied properly, it’ll last nearly twice as long as a stain would. 

Drawbacks of Exterior Paint

Painting your siding or deck is much more time-consuming compared to stains. There is necessary preparation and priming needed before painting. Painting may require more than one coat for an even color, which becomes more costly to paint. In addition, painting isn’t as breathable as stains, so any trapped moisture can get caught in the wood, which causes issues in the future. 

Which is Better for Wooden Decks & Siding: Solid Stain or Paint?

Both options are better than leaving your wooden decks and siding bare. Stain or paint will protect your investment from damage like warping or twisting. If you prefer the look of the wood, staining is the best option. Staining will keep the natural wood texture of your deck without covering it up, but any imperfections get highlighted. A properly stained deck will last about half as long or, on average, about five years. 

Painting offers a variety of color options for your deck, but you’ll probably need an extra sealant to preserve the paint for longer. Paint will last longer than stain and cover up any flaws in your siding or deck, but it can be more slippery and will trap moisture within the wood which leads to other issues later on. You can expect your properly painted wood deck or siding to last about ten years. 

Hiring a Contractor for Your Project

Regardless of whether you choose to stain or paint your deck, you’ll get the best results when they’re applied properly. For results that’ll last, hire a professional to apply your choice of paint or stain. At Pizzazz Painting, we’re experts in applying exterior paints to your siding or deck. We’ll go through the proper prep and application processes to ensure you get the most out of your stain or paint. 

To learn more about our professional exterior painting services, call us today at 609-702-8200.

Summary of Solid Stain vs. Paint

No matter which you choose, you’re making a great first step in protecting your siding or wooden deck. Neither is better than the other, but they work well in different scenarios. Ultimately, if you want to preserve the natural look of your wood siding or deck, use stain. Stain will highlight the natural wood tones but also accentuate any imperfections. If you prefer a long-term solution, paint is your best option. Painting your siding or deck will last at least twice as long as a stain but does retain moisture within the wood.