Paint or Stain Deck

If you have a new deck or an  older wood deck,it is important to finish it in order to protect it against moisture and weather.A very common question among home owners is the choice of finish,stain vs paint.Even though this is a personal preference choice,this post seeks to give as much info to aid in that choice.
Stain is cheaper
In the short term stain offers a more budget friendly option.It can cost between $15-$40 for a gallon of deck stain while paint made specially for deck can cost up to $70.If you are doing a new deck you will also have to add  paint primer to the cost
Paint has more colors
Deck paint comes in a variety of colors.They offer homeowners the ability to cater to personal taste.Colors such as mystic black,chestnut brown,fireside cherry offers the opportunity to create your dream deck.Stain is however designed accentuate  the natural wood look.Stain typically comes in a variety of brown or natural wood colors.
Stain looks more natural
Stain is designed to apply to the wood without changing the natural look of the wood.That is because it fills the pores of the wood forming a thin layer over the deck, letting the natural pattern and beauty of the wood show.Paint is designed to hide imperfections,it gets into cracks of damaged wood for a more refined look.
Paint last longer
The most popular question in the paint vs stain battle is which last longer.Professionally painted decks last up to 8-10 years without needing to repaint depending on how you treat it.Stain usually requires re staining between 3-5 years.Oil based paint offers the best protection against moisture but latex paint is best to prevent fading.If you start by painting however it is very difficult and potentially very expensive to switch to stain.A good professional however can remove stain more easily and repaint it to your liking.
Stain is less slippery
Because  stain has a finish designed to look more natural,it is less refined.latex or oil base paints have a smoother finish and can potentially be more slippery when liquid is introduced to it.
Paint need less maintenance
Paint is easier to maintain.When cleaning a deck, paint offers a easier surface to sweep as it has a more refined finish.Stain, even though more natural,rubbish gets stuck to  the imperfections that painting normally covers.This prompts the home owner to apply more robust cleaning methods and causing potential damage.
Final verdict.
The paint vs stain is not a winnable debate.At Arawak Painting and Handyman,we pride ourselves  in presenting customers with all the necessarily information to make the best choice for them.please give us a call 743-368-0765 for your free quote