I’m no stranger to the hassle of deck maintenance, but BEHR Exterior Wood Stain has been a game-changer for my outdoor space. Whether you’re sprucing up a weathered deck or protecting a new fence, this stain delivers vibrant color, solid protection, and a finish that holds up.
Available in over 1,600 colors at Home Depot, it’s a go-to for homeowners like me who want durability without breaking the bank. Trust me, you’ll want to grab a can of BEHR to transform your wood surfaces with ease and style.
My Journey With BEHR Exterior Wood Stain
Last summer, I decided my backyard deck needed a serious facelift. It’s a pressure-treated pine beauty, about 400 square feet, that sees full sun most of the day.
After years of neglect, it looked more like a graying relic than a place to host barbecues.
I headed to Home Depot, where BEHR’s Premium Solid Color Waterproofing Stain & Sealer caught my eye.
The promise of up to 10 years of protection on decks and 1,600 color options had me sold.
I chose a rich cedar tone to bring some warmth back to the wood.
The prep work was no joke. I spent a weekend power-washing, sanding, and cleaning with BEHR’s NO. 63 All-In-One Wood Cleaner to banish mildew and grime. When I finally cracked open the can, the stain’s thick, creamy consistency felt promising.
I used a brush for the railings and a roller for the deck boards, applying two light coats as recommended. The smell wasn’t too overpowering, and cleanup with soap and water was a breeze. By the end of the project, my deck looked like it belonged in a magazine—vibrant, smooth, and ready for summer.
Two years in, I’m still impressed. The color hasn’t faded much, even with relentless UV rays and a few brutal winters. There’s no peeling or cracking, though I’ve noticed slight wear in high-traffic spots.
Touching up those areas was simple, and the stain blended seamlessly. My neighbors keep asking what I used, and I’m quick to sing BEHR’s praises. It’s not perfect—more on that later—but for the price and performance, it’s tough to beat.
The Pros of BEHR Exterior Wood Stain
- Long-Lasting Protection That Delivers
BEHR’s solid color stain claims up to 10 years of protection on decks and 25 years on vertical surfaces like fences. In my experience, it’s living up to the hype. After two years of harsh sun, rain, and snow, my deck still looks vibrant.
Consumer Reports backs this up, noting BEHR’s solid stains perform well in accelerated weathering tests, with strong resistance to fading and cracking after three years. That’s a big win when you’re not keen on restaining every summer.
- A Rainbow of Color Options
With over 1,600 custom colors, BEHR lets you get creative. Whether you want a bold redwood or a subtle gray, there’s a shade to match your vibe. I went with cedar to complement my backyard’s natural feel, and the color depth is stunning.
The solid stain hides imperfections while letting the wood’s texture peek through, which is perfect for older decks like mine. Semi-transparent options are also available if you prefer showcasing the grain.
- Easy Application for DIYers
I’m no pro, but applying BEHR was straightforward. The stain goes on smoothly with a brush, roller, or sprayer, and two light coats did the trick. It dries in 2-4 hours, so I finished my deck in a weekend.
The water-based formula means easy cleanup with soap and water—no harsh chemicals needed. Just make sure the wood is dry and prepped properly, or you might end up with uneven patches.
- Budget-Friendly Without Skimping on Quality
At $49.99 per gallon, BEHR is a steal compared to pricier brands like Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore. One gallon covered about 200-400 square feet with two coats, so my 400-square-foot deck took two cans. For the durability and finish, it’s a solid value.
You’re getting near-premium performance without the premium price tag, which leaves room in the budget for a new grill.
- UV and Weather Resistance
Living in a sunny climate, I was worried about UV damage. BEHR’s 100% acrylic formula is fortified with silicone to block harmful rays and seal out moisture. My deck has endured blazing summers and freezing winters without significant wear.
The stain also resists mildew, which is a must if your deck is in a shady, damp spot. It’s not invincible, but it’s tough enough to handle most weather challenges.
The Not-So-Good Parts of BEHR Exterior Wood Stain
- Prep Work Is Non-Negotiable
BEHR’s performance hinges on proper prep, and that’s where things can go south. If you skip cleaning with NO. 63 or don’t sand new wood to remove mill glaze, the stain won’t penetrate properly.
I learned this the hard way when a small section of my railing looked blotchy because I rushed the sanding. It’s fixable, but it’s extra work. If you’re not ready to commit to a thorough prep process, you might be disappointed.
- Semi-Transparent Struggles
While I love the solid stain, BEHR’s semi-transparent version gets mixed reviews. Some users, including a contractor on DeckStainHelp.com, report it applies unevenly and looks more like opaque paint, hiding the wood grain.
In Consumer Reports’ tests, the semi-transparent stain scored poorly, with an overall score of 8 due to cracking and color change after weathering. If you want to show off your wood’s natural beauty, you might need to look elsewhere.
- Peeling Problems in Some Cases
Despite BEHR’s warranty, some users report peeling within a year, especially with semi-transparent stains. A commenter on Amazon mentioned peeling on sun-exposed areas despite meticulous prep.
My solid stain has held up, but I’ve heard enough horror stories to know it’s not foolproof. High-traffic areas or poorly prepped surfaces seem to be the culprits. If peeling happens, you’re looking at sanding or stripping, which is a headache.
- Limited Coverage on Rough Surfaces
BEHR claims 200-400 square feet per gallon, but on rough or weathered wood, you’ll lean toward the lower end. My deck soaked up more stain than expected, and I barely had enough with two gallons.
If your surface is porous or heavily textured, budget for extra cans. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it can catch you off guard if you’re staining a large area.
Tips For Keeping Your BEHR-Stained Deck Looking Fresh
- Regular Cleaning Is Key
To keep your deck looking sharp, clean it at least once a year. I use a mild detergent and a soft-bristle brush to scrub away dirt and mildew. For tougher stains, BEHR’s NO. 63 cleaner works wonders. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely.
This prevents grime from breaking down the stain and keeps the color vibrant. I do this every spring, and it’s like giving my deck a new lease on life.
- Inspect and Touch Up Annually
Check your deck for wear, especially in high-traffic spots. I noticed slight fading on my deck’s main walkway after a year, so I touched it up with a small can of the same stain. Apply a thin coat with a brush for seamless blending.
Catching small issues early prevents bigger problems like peeling or cracking. It takes me an hour tops, and the deck looks brand-new.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals and Power Washing
High-pressure washing can strip the stain or damage the wood, so I stick to low-pressure settings or a garden hose. Avoid bleach or harsh cleaners, as they can degrade the finish.
BEHR’s water-based formula is tough, but it’s not invincible. Gentle cleaning preserves the stain’s protective layer and extends its life.
- Protect Against Foot Traffic and Furniture
Heavy foot traffic or furniture can wear down the stain faster. I use outdoor rugs in high-traffic areas and felt pads under furniture legs to prevent scratches. If you’re hosting a big party, consider laying down temporary mats. These small steps make a big difference in keeping your deck pristine.
- Reapply as Needed, But Not Too Soon
BEHR’s solid stain can last up to 10 years, but semi-transparent may need reapplication every 2-3 years. Check for fading or wear before restaining. I plan to reapply in year five if my deck starts looking tired. When you do restain, lightly sand the surface and clean it thoroughly to ensure the new coat adheres well. Patience pays off here.
Comparing BEHR To Other Brands: How It Stacks Up?
When I chose BEHR for my deck, I weighed it against Sherwin-Williams SuperDeck, TWP Stain, and Valspar Semi-Transparent Stain. Each has its fans, but here’s how BEHR stacks up in a direct comparison, so you can decide what’s best for your project.
- BEHR Vs. Sherwin-Williams SuperDeck
Sherwin-Williams SuperDeck is a contractor darling, and I get why.
Priced at $60 per gallon, it’s a bit pricier than BEHR’s $49.99, but it’s known for its durability, especially in semi-transparent formulas.
SuperDeck’s oil-based options penetrate deeply, reducing peeling, and Consumer Reports gives it high marks for weathering resistance, slightly edging out BEHR’s solid stain. However, BEHR’s 1,600 color options dwarf SuperDeck’s more limited palette.
I found BEHR’s water-based formula easier to clean up, and its solid stain matched SuperDeck’s UV protection on my sun-soaked deck. If you’re after a semi-transparent finish, SuperDeck might have the edge, but for solid stains and value, BEHR’s my pick.
- BEHR Vs. TWP Stain
TWP (Total Wood Preservative) Stain is a favorite for pros working with cedar or exotic woods, costing around $55 per gallon.
Its semi-transparent formula is designed to enhance grain while offering excellent UV and water resistance.
A user on DeckStainHelp.com praised TWP’s seven-year durability on railings, which outshines BEHR’s semi-transparent struggles.
However, TWP’s color range is limited compared to BEHR’s 1,600 shades, and it’s harder to find in stores.
For my pine deck, BEHR’s solid stain was easier to apply and hid imperfections better than TWP’s semi-transparent approach. If you’ve got premium wood and want the grain to shine, TWP’s a strong contender, but BEHR suits budget-conscious DIYers like me.
- BEHR Vs. Valspar Semi-Transparent Stain
Valspar Semi-Transparent Stain, priced at $45 per gallon, is a budget-friendly option available at Lowe’s.
It promises easy application and decent UV protection, but reviews are mixed.
A commenter on Amazon noted Valspar fading within two years, while BEHR’s solid stain on my deck is still vibrant after two.
Valspar’s semi-transparent formula applies more consistently than BEHR’s, which can look patchy, but it lacks BEHR’s color variety and long-term durability. Consumer Reports rates Valspar lower for weathering, with noticeable cracking after three years.
For a quick, cheap refresh, Valspar’s fine, but BEHR’s solid stain offers better protection and value for larger projects.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but BEHR Premium Solid Color Waterproofing Stain & Sealer is a top contender for solid stains, thanks to its durability and color variety. Consumer Reports praises its weathering resistance, and my deck’s two-year performance backs that up. For semi-transparent stains, Benjamin Moore’s ARBORCOAT or DEFY Extreme are often cited for better grain visibility and longevity.
Solid stains generally last longer than semi-transparent or clear options. BEHR’s solid stain claims 10 years on decks and 25 years on fences, and my experience suggests it’s on track. Sherwin-Williams SuperDeck and Benjamin Moore ARBORCOAT also offer long-lasting solid stains, with warranties up to 15 years. Proper prep and maintenance are key to maximizing lifespan.
It depends on your needs. BEHR is more affordable at $49.99 per gallon and performs well for solid stains, with strong UV and weather resistance. Sherwin-Williams SuperDeck, at $60 per gallon, is preferred by pros for its semi-transparent options and slightly better durability. For budget-conscious DIYers like me, BEHR gets the job done without sacrificing quality.
BEHR is a better value for solid stains, offering similar durability to Benjamin Moore’s ARBORCOAT at a lower price ($49.99 vs. $70 per gallon). However, Benjamin Moore excels in semi-transparent stains, with better grain visibility and fewer application issues. If you want a premium semi-transparent finish, go with Benjamin Moore. For solid stains on a budget, BEHR’s my pick.
Why BEHR Exterior Wood Stain Is Your Deck’s Best Friend?
After two years with BEHR Exterior Wood Stain, I’m hooked. It’s transformed my deck into a vibrant, weather-resistant showpiece without draining my wallet. With easy application, long-lasting protection, and endless color options, it’s a no-brainer for DIYers and homeowners.
Grab a can from Home Depot, follow the prep steps, and watch your outdoor space come to life. Your deck deserves BEHR’s durability and style—trust me, you won’t regret it.