Paint and stains are both designed to cover and protect wood, but they work in different ways. Paint forms a film on the surface of the wood that seals and protects it from weathering. Stain penetrates into the wood, where it forms a seal that protects against moisture damage but allows the wood to "breath."Solid deck stains are available in oil or latex formulations. Both types will penetrate into the wood and form a protective seal, but oil-based stains are more durable than latex-based ones. Oil-based stains also tend to bring out the natural beauty of wood more than latex-based ones do.

No. Deck stain is a semi-transparent product that allows the natural wood grain to show through, while paint is a solid color that completely covers the wood. Paint will last longer and provide more protection against the weather than stain, but some people prefer the look of stained decks. If you decide to use stain, be sure to apply it correctly and frequently maintain it or it will fade and need to be reapplied.