When it comes to protecting and enhancing the beauty of your deck, choosing the right stain is crucial.
I’ve found that Benjamin Moore’s Arborcoat line is one of the most popular options for long-lasting protection and a superior finish.
Arborcoat is known for its durability, ease of application, and high-quality results, making it a favorite among homeowners and professionals alike.
The line includes a range of products designed to fit various needs, including semi-transparent, solid, and clear stains.
In this blog, I’ll focus on the Arborcoat line, diving into its features and performance to help you determine if it’s the best choice for your deck.
With a little insight, you can confidently make the right decision for maintaining your deck’s beauty and durability.
Benjamin Moore’s Arborcoat Deck Stain Overview
Benjamin Moore Arborcoat deck stains are specifically formulated to protect your deck from the harsh effects of weather while maintaining its beauty over time.
Offering a variety of options, Arborcoat caters to different preferences with various sheens, finishes, and colors.
If you’re looking for a transparent stain that lets the natural grain of the wood shine or a solid stain that provides full coverage, Arborcoat has a product to meet your needs.
Known for its durability, Arborcoat offers excellent protection against moisture, UV rays, and mildew, ensuring your deck stays looking great year after year.
The line is also praised for its ease of application, allowing for smooth, streak-free coverage with a quick drying time.
Additionally, Arborcoat’s resistance to fading and peeling makes it a top choice for homeowners looking to protect their decks while enhancing the wood’s natural beauty.
What Makes Arborcoat Stand Out?
If you’re looking for a reliable deck stain that protects and enhances your outdoor wood surfaces, Benjamin Moore’s Arborcoat line is a solid choice.
- Excellent Weather Protection: Arborcoat stains are formulated to resist moisture, UV rays, and mildew, helping your deck stay strong through all seasons.
- Deep Penetration for Durability: The formula sinks deep into the wood, offering long-lasting protection and reducing the need for frequent reapplications.
- Water-Based and Oil-Based Options: Choose water-based for easier cleanup or oil-based for a more traditional, longer-lasting finish.
- Wide Range of Colors and Finishes: Arborcoat offers shades and finishes that showcase wood’s natural grain while boosting its visual appeal.
- Aesthetic and Functional: It doesn’t just protect – it enhances the look of your deck with a rich, even finish that highlights natural beauty.
- Quick-Drying and Easy to Apply: Arborcoat stains dry fast, making the application process smoother and reducing downtime for outdoor spaces.
Benjamin Moore’s Arborcoat deck stains stand out for combining professional-grade protection with beautiful, lasting results. If you want a deck that looks great and holds up to the elements, Arborcoat is a top-tier choice.
Types of Arborcoat Deck Stains
Arborcoat offers a variety of deck stains, including semi-transparent, solid, and clear options, each designed to provide different levels of coverage and protection while enhancing the natural beauty of your wood.
1. Arborcoat Semi-Transparent Deck Stain
The semi-transparent option is perfect for those who want to showcase the wood’s natural grain while still providing color and protection. This stain provides a good balance between coverage and transparency.
It helps to accentuate the natural beauty of the wood while offering protection from moisture and UV damage. The semi-transparent formula also allows the wood to breathe, preventing issues like peeling or cracking.
Performance and Durability
Homeowners have praised the Arborcoat Semi-Transparent Deck Stain for its ability to resist fading, cracking, and peeling, even under harsh sun exposure.
The stain’s high-quality pigments protect the deck from the sun’s UV rays, helping to keep the color vibrant. In addition, it’s resistant to mold and mildew, making it a great choice for areas with high humidity.
Ease of Application
The semi-transparent stain is easy to apply with a brush, roller, or sprayer. Many users report that it goes on smoothly without streaks and dries fairly quickly.
While it does require periodic reapplication, users appreciate its ability to enhance the wood’s natural texture while offering reliable protection.
2. Arborcoat Solid Deck Stain
For those who prefer a more opaque finish, the Arborcoat Solid Deck Stain is a great option. This stain offers full coverage, hiding imperfections in the wood and providing a uniform color across the surface.
It’s ideal for older decks or wood with visible flaws, as it completely masks the natural grain.
Performance and Durability
The Arborcoat Solid Deck Stain provides strong protection against moisture and UV rays. It is formulated to resist cracking, peeling, and fading, even after years of exposure to the elements.
The solid finish gives the deck a clean, uniform look and offers excellent coverage on worn-out surfaces. It’s also highly resistant to mildew, making it a good choice for areas with excessive moisture.
Ease of Application
Like the semi-transparent version, the solid stain is easy to apply and offers smooth coverage. While it requires more time to dry, the finish is long-lasting and resistant to wear.
Many users appreciate the fact that it covers imperfections and provides a beautiful, durable finish that holds up well over time.
3. Arborcoat Clear Deck Stain
For homeowners who prefer the natural look of wood but still want protection, the Arborcoat Clear Deck Stain is a great option.
This stain enhances the wood’s natural color without altering its appearance. It’s designed to penetrate the wood and provide a protective layer without changing the texture.
Performance and Durability
The Arborcoat Clear Deck Stain offers excellent protection against moisture, mold, and mildew. While it doesn’t provide as much UV protection as the colored stains, it still helps prevent the wood from weathering and cracking.
The clear finish allows the natural beauty of the wood to shine through while offering a light protective layer.
Ease of Application
Like the other Arborcoat products, the clear stain is easy to apply and dries quickly. It’s perfect for new wood or freshly sanded decks that you want to protect without changing their natural appearance.
However, because it’s clear, it will need to be reapplied more frequently than other stains to maintain its effectiveness.
Arborcoat Deck Stains: Pros and Cons
Arborcoat deck stains offer long-lasting durability, ease of application, and excellent protection against UV rays, mold, and mildew, but require periodic reapplication and come at a higher price point.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durability: Long-lasting protection that resists peeling, cracking, and fading even with sun and rain exposure. | Reapplication Required: Like most deck stains, Arborcoat needs periodic reapplication, particularly in high-traffic areas. |
| Wide Range of Options: Semi-transparent, solid, and clear finishes to suit different appearance and protection needs. | Price: Arborcoat is on the higher end of the price spectrum, though many feel the investment is worth it. |
| Mold and Mildew Resistance: Excellent resistance to mold and mildew, making it ideal for humid or wet climates. | Coverage Variations: Coverage may vary depending on the wood type and condition, requiring proper preparation for even results. |
| Ease of Application: Easy to apply with smooth, even coverage that doesn’t leave streaks. | |
| UV Protection: Provides excellent protection against UV rays, preventing sun damage and color fading over time. |
Customer Reviews: What Homeowners Are Saying
While specific customer reviews for Benjamin Moore Arborcoat deck stains are limited in the provided search results,general feedback from various sources highlights both positive and mixed experiences.
Positive Feedback
Durability: Many users appreciate Arborcoat’s long-lasting protection, with one reviewer noting that after two years, there was no peeling and the preparation was just power washing, highlighting its excellent durability when applied correctly.
Ease of Application:Customers have noted that Arborcoat flows well and covers surfaces effectively.The application process is straightforward, leading to a smooth finish.
Mixed Feedback
Reapplication Frequency: Some users note that the stain needs reapplication after a year, particularly in high-traffic areas, requiring periodic touch-ups.
Price Point:A few customers have mentioned that Arborcoat is more expensive than other options.However, many feel that the quality and protection it offers justify the higher cost.
Tips for Maintaining Your Deck After Staining with Arborcoat
Proper maintenance can help extend the life of your deck and preserve the beauty of the Arborcoat stain.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your deck regularly to remove dirt, leaves, and debris that can cause wear over time. This will prevent buildup and help keep your deck looking fresh and clean.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use mild cleaners or deck-safe solutions to avoid damaging the stain. Harsh chemicals can break down the protective layers of the stain and shorten its lifespan.
- Inspect for Damage: Check your deck for signs of wear, peeling, or damage, especially in high-traffic areas. Early detection allows you to address issues before they become major problems.
- Reseal When Needed: Reapply a fresh coat of stain when you notice fading or wear, typically every 1-2 years, depending on traffic and weather conditions. Reapplying stain ensures continued protection from the elements.
- Protect from Furniture Scratches: Use furniture pads or coasters under outdoor furniture to prevent scratches or marks. This helps maintain the finish and prevent damage from movement.
- Trim Overhanging Branches: Trim tree branches that overhang the deck to prevent sap and leaves from staining or damaging the surface. Reducing exposure to leaves and sap can help maintain the deck’s appearance.
Conclusion
Benjamin Moore Arborcoat deck stains stand out for their durability, ease of application, and long-lasting protection against the elements.
With options ranging from semi-transparent to solid stains, Arborcoat allows homeowners to choose the finish that best suits their deck’s needs.
Many users praise its resistance to peeling, fading, and mildew, making it an excellent choice for outdoor spaces. However, it’s important to consider that periodic reapplication may be necessary, especially in high-traffic areas.
Despite its higher price point, many find the investment worthwhile due to its superior performance and protection.
I believe Arborcoat is a great option for anyone looking to enhance and protect their deck, and its quality is reflected in the positive reviews it has received.
Ready to give your deck the protection it deserves? I encourage you to try Benjamin Moore Arborcoat and experience its lasting results for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Arborcoat deck stain last?
Arborcoat deck stain typically lasts 1–2 years before it needs reapplication, depending on factors like weather exposure, deck traffic, and maintenance.
Can Arborcoat deck stain be applied over an old stain?
Yes, you can apply Arborcoat over an old stain as long as the surface is properly cleaned and prepped. It’s important to remove any peeling or damaged stain before applying a fresh coat.
How many coats of Arborcoat deck stain should I apply?
For the best results, it’s recommended to apply two coats of Arborcoat deck stain, especially if you’re using a solid or semi-transparent finish. The first coat helps seal the wood, while the second enhances coverage and protection.
How do I clean my deck after applying Arborcoat?
For cleaning, use a gentle soap and water solution or a deck-safe cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the stain. Regular cleaning with a broom or hose helps maintain the deck’s appearance.
How do I know which Arborcoat finish is best for my deck?
The choice of finish depends on your aesthetic and protection needs. Semi-transparent is ideal for showcasing the wood grain, while solid provides full coverage, perfect for covering imperfections.
With a Master’s in Architecture from the University of California, Berkeley, Alexander Martin has dedicated the last 18 years to enhancing outdoor living through thoughtful and robust structure design. His career kicked off in urban planning, giving him a unique perspective on integrating structures into diverse environments. In 2019, Alexander brought his expertise to our website, offering insights into creating versatile outdoor spaces. Since then, he has been the lead advisor for our outdoor design projects and is known for his ability to merge functionality with environmental consciousness. Alexander enjoys rock climbing outside of work and participates in community development projects, activities that reflect his passion for the outdoors and sustainable design.
