At Adler’s, we often help homeowners tackle one of the most deceptively tricky exterior projects: deck staining. Decks pose a unique challenge compared to vertical surfaces like siding or shingles—mainly because decks are horizontal, meaning water sits and pools rather than runs off. That makes proper protection and coloring absolutely critical.

I’m Harry Adler, co-owner here at Adler’s, and today I want to walk you through the key considerations when selecting a stain for your deck—and how to get it right the first time.

Why Decks Need Special Attention

Unlike vertical surfaces, decks are exposed to constant moisture, foot traffic, and full sun exposure. This makes choosing the right stain all the more important. There are two primary goals when staining a deck:

1. Protecting the wood from moisture and UV damage.

2. Enhancing or maintaining the color and appearance.

Different types of wood behave differently, so your product needs to match your specific material. For example, white cedar is commonly used for shingles, while mahogany is a popular choice for decking—and each responds uniquely to stains.

Our Two Go-To Products for Decks

We carry many options, but two standout products have become our top recommendations:

1. C2 Guard (Water-Based)

• Water-based stain with nanoparticle technology

• Designed to penetrate deep into the wood and protect from within

• Excellent for long-term protection, especially against moisture

• Lasts up to 10 years on vertical surfaces, 6 years on horizontal ones

• Clear and tinted versions available, including the popular shade Atlantic Salt

2. Armstrong Clark (Oil-Based)

• Oil-based stain known for its rich, beautiful finish

• Penetrates well and enhances natural wood grain

• Offers a classic look many homeowners love

• Available in a range of tones, including a warm Mahogany

Why You Should Always Sample First

One of the most common mistakes people make is choosing a stain based on a printed color chart or display. Unfortunately, those samples rarely match your actual wood due to differences in grain, age, and prior treatments.

That’s why we highly recommend using sample containers—which we offer for free! Whether you're considering Armstrong Clark Mahogany or C2 Guard Atlantic Salt, testing the product on your specific deck boards will give you the only accurate picture of how it will look.

Seeing the Difference: Water Test Demo

To really show how effective C2 Guard is, we use a simple but powerful demonstration. A board is split into two halves—one treated with C2 Guard, one untreated. When water is poured over both sides, the treated half repels the water completely, while the untreated side allows it to soak in.

That’s the difference between a protected deck and one that’s vulnerable to rot and damage.

You Can Use These Products Together

Want the best of both worlds? You can actually use C2 Guard for protection and topcoat with Armstrong Clark for rich color. Or vice versa, depending on your needs. We’re happy to walk you through what works best for your project.

There's a lot to consider when it comes to staining your deck, and we’re here to help. Stop by Adler’s Design Center & Hardware, and talk to me, Peter, or Christine. We’ll help you evaluate your wood, explore color options, and get the right product—and free samples—to ensure your deck looks great and lasts for years to come.

Ready to get started? Come visit us and let’s make your deck look its best.

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