Everything You Need to Know About Water-Based Oil Deck Stains
Posted by WOCA WOODCARE

As the year progresses, it’s time to plan ahead and protect your deck for the upcoming seasons. Storms, harsh winters, ice, snow, and hail can all take a toll on your deck. Fortunately, treating your deck is a simple and effective way to protect it, and finding the right products to get started is easier than ever.
When you seal the surface of your wood, you ensure your deck can withstand anything Mother Nature throws its way. This typically involves staining or oiling it so moisture can’t penetrate to the porous wood below.
Then, how do you decide which wood deck finish is right for you? And what are the advantages of water-based stain vs. oil-based treatments?
With so many products on the market, choosing the correct one can be confusing (to say the least). This guide will take you through everything you need to know about water-based oil deck stains so you can make the right choice for protecting your deck.
An Introduction to Water-Based Oil Deck Stains
Water-based oil deck stain is a popular choice for protecting and enhancing the beauty of wood decks. Known for its ease of application and clean-up, it’s a fantastic option for DIY homeowners looking to tackle their deck staining projects. Unlike traditional oil-based stains, water-based oil deck stains are more environmentally friendly, making them a responsible choice for eco-conscious individuals.
Choosing a high-quality water-based oil deck stain is crucial for providing excellent protection against sun damage, moisture, and mildew. These stains penetrate the wood, sealing it from the elements and preserving its natural beauty. By opting for a water-based oil deck stain, homeowners can ensure their wood deck remains stunning and protected for years to come.
Traditional Oil-Based Finishes vs. Water-Based Stains
Decking oils typically come in two varieties—water-based and oil-based. Traditional oil-based deck finishes are less durable than water-based stains. While paint can also be used to protect wood surfaces, it often requires more preparation and can obscure the natural beauty of the wood grain. Water-based stains are generally easier to work with and dry more quickly.
Other factors to consider when choosing a deck or wood finishing treatment are health and environmental risks. Traditional oil-based stains rely on strong solvents to thin the heavier components of oil-based treatments. These solvents evaporate or “gas out” after the oil-based stain is applied.
As these solvents dry, they release volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, into the air. VOCs have been linked to serious respiratory illnesses and even certain types of cancer. Because of this, many locations seek to limit their use. More and more states have passed legislation limiting VOCs, making water-based decking stains a more attractive option for both ease of use and health considerations.

Benefits of Using Water-Based Oil
One of the primary benefits of using water-based oil deck stain is its ability to protect the wood grain from damage. This type of stain is designed to penetrate deeply into the wood, providing a robust barrier against the elements. Additionally, water-based oil deck stains are resistant to cracking and peeling, ensuring a long-lasting finish that won’t require frequent touch-ups.
The ease of application and quick drying time make water-based oil deck stains a favorite among homeowners. You can complete your deck staining project in no time, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space sooner. Moreover, these stains help maintain your wood deck's natural color and texture, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. With excellent durability and resistance to sun damage, water-based oil deck stains are an outstanding choice for exterior wood coatings.
WOCA Water-Based Oil Deck Stains
WOCA Oil Stains are unique water—and plant-based stains that offer many advantages over traditional oil-based treatments. They offer clear options that allow the natural beauty of the wood to shine through. The composition of WOCA Exterior Wood Oil products is eco-friendly because it doesn’t contain the harsh chemical solvents that conventional oil-based treatments require. These transparent stains provide protection while letting the wood grain remain visible, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your deck.
Its special plant and water-based composition makes it a responsible choice for the environment, plus you can have peace of mind knowing it’s healthier for you and your loved ones. Its convenience is unmatched, as the treated wood absorbs the water-based composition more thoroughly and makes for easier cleanup.
WOCA Exterior Oil is ideal for all outdoor wood surfaces, including:
- Domestic woods like cedar, redwood, oak, and ash
- Pressure-treated lumber, such as pine
- Bamboo decking
- Exotic and tropical woods, such as mahogany, teak, zebrawood, and more
- Wood that has been thermally modified
Preparation and Application
Before applying a water-based oil deck stain, it’s essential to prepare the surface by thoroughly cleaning and drying it. This step ensures that the stain adheres properly and provides maximum protection. Additionally, remove any existing stains or sealers and sand the surface to create a smooth finish, which helps the new stain penetrate evenly.
When applying the stain, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and work in small sections to avoid uneven coverage. Using a high-quality brush or roller can also help ensure a smooth and even application. By taking the time to prepare and apply the water-based oil deck stain properly, you can achieve a beautiful and long-lasting finish that will protect your deck for years to come.
Protect & Beautify with WOCA
WOCA Exterior Wood Oil is an excellent option that provides both protection and a variety of designer deck stain colors. Its transparent nature ensures that the wood grain remains visible while providing robust protection. It fortifies wood by penetrating deep into the grain. As it dries, it hardens the wood from the inside out, strengthening and providing deep layers of protection from the damaging effects of environmental exposure.
There are many advantages of water-based staining compared to oil-based treatments, and WOCA provides the best of both worlds. Water-based oil stains won’t chip, peel, or flake and work to seal the wood’s surface, providing a barrier against the damaging effects of wind and rain. They also offer considerable UV protection. The R10 non-slip rating means they also provide superior traction, making them a safer option all around.
Attractive, Eco-Friendly, Year-Round Protection
WOCA Exterior Oil’s superior UV protection means the direct sunlight of the warm summer months won’t weather, fade, or dry your wooden deck. As summer draws to a close, water-based oil stains protect your investment against the harsher, colder weather of fall and winter.
With fourteen designer color options available, WOCA Exterior Oil will improve the appearance and durability of your wooden deck, children’s playscape, gazebo, landscaping treatments, patio set, fencing, or any other wooden structure you wish to protect.
Protect Your Deck with the Right Stain
As a homeowner, knowing which stain type is right for you can be hard. Should you select water-based? Oil-based? Perhaps a mix? You can find the right products to suit your needs.
Water-based oil stains are the standout choice for any wooden deck. They offer superior protection, better safety, and a lower environmental impact than traditional oil-based stains. Simply put, your deck will thank you for it!
Check out WOCA’s exterior oils and treatment products and enjoy long-lasting protection, a beautiful finish, and peace of mind knowing you've made an eco-friendly choice for your home.
SHARE: