Find Your Perfect Deck Stain Color With This Guide

Choosing the ideal deck stain color can breathe new life into a tired, faded deck. The right rich hue can complement your home's style, withstand the elements, and give your outdoor oasis a warm, welcoming feel. From deep redwood tones, to soothing gray blues, to vibrant greens that connect you to nature, deck stain opens up a world of possibilities.

But with so many colors and brands to pick from, it can be tricky to narrow it down.

Determine the Look You're Going For

First, think about the overall aesthetic you want your deck to have. Are you envisioning a coastal cottage vibe with cool, gray undertones? Or perhaps a rich mahogany that highlights wood grains? Do you want to match existing paint colors or furnishings, or make a bold color statement?

Here are some popular deck stain colors and the looks they create:

• Warm and natural wood tones like cedar and redwood
• Cool, coastal blues and grays
• Vibrant colors like crimson red or forest green
• Sleek modern black or dark walnut tones
• Traditional light browns
• An eclectic mix of colors on stairs, railings and surfaces

Consider the Style and Size of Your Deck

The style of your deck and home can influence color choices. For example, traditional brown craftsman bungalows often look best with wood inspired deck stains. Contemporary homes tend to pair well with more modern black stains.

Size is also a factor. Small decks surrounded by gardens can pull off dramatic colors since they act as an accent. Larger decks take up more visual space, so beware darker stains that could feel overwhelming.

Sunlight and Visibility

Decks with full sun exposure should avoid black and darker stains which absorb heat. Partially shaded decks have more flexibility. If your deck takes center stage in your backyard, make sure colors complement the whole landscape.

Home Exterior Style

Think about your home's exterior finishes like stonework, trims and fascia when selecting deck colors. The idea is to have colors flow seamlessly from exterior walls to deck surfaces for a cohesive look.

Complement the Colors in Your Outdoor Space

Your deck doesn't exist in isolation. For the most pleasing, integrated look, deck stain colors should work with surrounding elements. Green forest tones for example, pair beautifully with evergreen trees in your yard. Redwood stains match classic brown patio furniture sets. Just don't match your deck and house colors too closely or they'll blur together.

Nearby Plants and Greenery

Match warm wood deck stain hues to planter boxes and plants for a synergistic, welcoming look. Cool grays and blues work well when offset by vibrant flower colors.

Outdoor Furniture Palettes

Coordinate furniture and deck colors so they complement each other. A redwood deck popping against black furniture makes a dramatic statement. A gray deck with matching gray furniture keeps things calm and chill.

Test Different Stain Color Samples

Never decide on a deck color without testing it out first. Stain brands can vary quite a bit in tone and finish. Lighting conditions also dramatically impact how colors look. Follow this process for foolproof test samples:

1. Select 3-4 pequette sized stain color samples from brands like Behr, Cabots, and Thompsons.
2. Apply samples to inconspicuous areas of your deck and let them fully cure.
3. View samples at different times of day to see color variations.
4. Live with them for 1-2 weeks, since opinions can change!

Factor in Maintenance Requirements

Maintenance is a crucial consideration for optimal deck lifespan. In general, transparent and semi-transparent stains withstand weathering better than solid color opaque stains, allowing the wood grain to show through.

Fade and Stain Resistance

Redwood, cedar and pine deck stains have excellent UV resistance compared to lighter opaque stains. Multi-toned natural wood stains also hide fading issues over time.

Ease of Cleaning

While darker colors look striking, they show dust, pollen and dirt much more than lighter deck colors. For low maintenance cleaning, lighter semi-transparent wood tones are ideal.

No matter what color you choose, expect to thoroughly clean and re-apply fresh stain every 2-4 years depending on weathering and usage. Following manufacturer guidelines for application and maintenance is key for lasting color results.

Seek Inspiration From Deck Photos

Sometimes seeing is believing when it comes to envisioning the perfect deck colors. Browse online or flip through outdoor living magazines to spur the imagination. Notice landscape elements that appeal to you and colors that grab your attention.

Here are some links to inspiring deck stain photos for reference:

• Backyard Deck Ideas on Houzz
• Coastal Decks on Pinterest
• Modern Black Stained Decks

Trust Your Instincts

At the end of the day, choose deck stain colors that make you feel happy and excited every time you see your deck. Trust your personal taste and passions.

Do jewel tone purple railings make you smile? Does a warm honey oak deck feel welcoming and homey? Your emotional response is the best guide for colors that enhance your personal outdoor sanctuary.

With regular maintenance like bi-annual pressure washing and re-application when needed, you'll enjoy your ideal deck color for many years before considering a change.

We hope this guide gave you ideas and inspiration for finding your perfect deck stain color. The only limit is your imagination!