Right now, we’re big fans of the Woodluxe® line of oil- and water-based stains for homeowners, designers, and home improvement pros who want to stain and protect their wood decks, fences, siding, and more. Let’s break down what makes this product a standout choice.

Choosing Between Oil-Based and Water-Based Deck Stain

Both the oil-based and water-based versions of Woodluxe® deliver long-lasting protection and rich color, but they behave a little differently.

Woodluxe® Oil-Based Waterproofing Exterior Stain

If you’re going for a wood stain that enhances the natural grain and soaks deep into the surface, oil-based might be your best bet. It’s ideal for:

• Older or weathered wood that’s demands moisture and coverage.
• Softwoods like cedar or pine that need deeper penetration.
• Translucent, semi-transparent, and semi-solid opacities.
• A richer, traditional look with longer working time for even application.

Our team often recommends oil-based Woodluxe® for homeowners who want both deep tone and to retain the natural character in their wood. Just keep in mind that this type will take longer to dry and may require mineral spirits for cleanup.

Woodluxe® Water-Based Waterproofing Exterior Stain

For an innovative and unique approach, Woodluxe® water-based deck stain offers a variable level of opacity for jobs where you want to see natural grain or heavy-duty flat stain for completely refinished surfaces Benefits include:

• Faster drying times.
• Easy soap and water cleanup.
• Great performance on newer wood and previously stained decks.
• Translucent, semi-transparent, semi-solid, solid, and ultra flat opacities.
• More environmentally sensitive and lower VOC.

If you're short on time or prefer low-odor applications, this is a strong choice, especially for homeowners who plan to recoat in the future.

Why Choose Woodluxe® for Your Deck?

Benjamin Moore has created Woodluxe® deck stain with performance and longevity in mind. Whether you choose oil-based or water-based, you’ll benefit from:

• Superior adhesion and protection.
• Mildew resistance.
• Fade-resistant color.
• Classic tones like Natural Cedartone (ES-45) to dramatic Cordovan Brown (ES-62).

The Woodluxe® line includes finishes for vertical siding and horizontal surfaces, so your entire outdoor space can enjoy the same uniform finish and protection.

Find the Perfect Dark Wood Stain for Your Home

We know decks in the Midwest can take a beating between the extreme heat and extreme cold. Our team at Color Store, Inc. is here to help you select the right formula, prep products, and finish color for your specific project. We’ve been your local go-to for paint and stain expertise for decades, and we’re proud to be a trusted Benjamin Moore dealer.

Need help deciding between finishes? Want tips on surface prep or application techniques? Our expert team is here to help first-time DIY-ers and paint professionals alike. Book an in-home consultation today or stop by one of our stores and let’s kick off your project on the right foot today.

We are locally owned with showroom locations in Des Moines & Waukee, Iowa and Omaha, Nebraska.