Solid or transparent? Here’s how to know which stain choice is best for your deck

By Mary Malik

During these precious outdoor months in Northeast Ohio, for many of us the deck is an extension of our home’s living space. The problem is the other months of the year take a toll on the deck’s surface and can create unsightly peeling, even moldy wood that weakens the deck and can result in expensive repairs and replacement costs. Only a professional deck cleaning and staining every couple of years will keep your deck looking like new.

For the past 10 years, Chagrin Home Improvements has made a name for itself by doing deck maintenance in the outdoor months and cabinet painting in the indoor season, and it all starts with a phone call.

“We still have openings for the summer to get on the list for deck cleaning and staining,” owner Joe Jacobs says. “Many people are tempted to do it themselves, but a professional job is necessary when it comes to maintaining the integrity of your deck’s wood surface. The good news is when it’s done right it will last you a couple of years, even longer if you take care of it by cleaning off dirt and debris between professional jobs.”

Joe’s crew first cleans the deck thoroughly of dirt and mold buildup. You don’t want to be sealing over mold and dirt. This will cause the deck to deteriorate much faster and is one reason a professional job is necessary. They also make small repairs like replacing rotten wood pieces and securing raised screws and nails.

“Staining and sealing your deck is the next step, and we will guide you through your choices,” Joe says. “There are a few things to consider.”

Solid Stain

Pros:
• Uniform, opaque color to help cover any wood imperfections.
• Offers protection from harsh weather conditions and UV rays.
• Allows the customer to have unlimited color choices.
• May last longer overall than a more transparent stain.

Cons:
• Hides the natural beauty of wood grain if a natural look is desired.
• Once applied, you are committed to a solid stain moving forward.

Transparent Stain

Pros:
• Enhances the natural beauty of the wood surface for a natural look.
• Wears away gracefully with no peeling.

Cons:
• Not as much protection against weather conditions and UV rays.
• May need to be reapplied more often.
• Less uniformity than a solid stain.

Joe says the decision between solid or transparent stain usually comes down to personal preference and priorities.

“If you’re looking for durability and protection, solid stain is a good choice,” Joe says. “If you want to showcase the natural wood grain and like a more rustic look, a transparent stain is the way to go. The important thing is to have your stain professionally applied to guarantee the best results.”

After 10 years of skilled, dependable and superior deck maintenance and restoration work, Joe’s crew has perfected the process to get the most longevity out of every job.

“Others try to get customers on a yearly schedule,” Joe says. “If it’s done right, it should hold up for two or three years. We must be doing the job right because now that we’ve been around awhile, we’re getting repeat clients along with word-of-mouth recommendations.”

Joe’s crew is made up of experienced friends and family who are all experts at this trade and full-time employees, not seasonal hires.

“Everyone here is dedicated to quality and consistency,” Joe says. “And we won’t keep you waiting. The crew gets in, gets out and gets the job done the right way.

For more information and to get a spot on the schedule, call Joe Jacobs at 440-247-6700 or check the website ChagrinHomeImprovements.com.