
As the weather begins to warm and everyone spends more time outside, there will be plenty that feel that their garden decking areas are in desperate need of a layer of colour and protection.
But there’s perhaps more choice when it comes to decking stain colours than most people would think, which makes picking the right one a little trickier. Putting the colours themselves aside, there are additional properties of exterior wood stain colours that also need to be considered, such as protection from damaging UV rays.
So where does the decision process begin?


Oil-Based Deck Stain vs. Water-Based Deck Stain
Before keen gardeners and DIY enthusiasts get the paintbrushes out, there needs to be a crucial decision made first and foremost regarding the makeup of the stain solution. Here, homeowners have two primary choices, oil-based or water-based.
While water-based wood stains have a few advantages, oil-based deck stains are by far the best choice. They offer much better protection against the elements, they dry more slowly than water-based stains – thus maintaining a more even finish – and lastly, they are far more durable than water-based stains.
The oil molecules are smaller than water molecules allowing the oils to penetrate the wood better, which improves longevity and decreases maintenance after application.
But what about decking stain colours? Are there only different shades of brown from which to choose?


Decking Oil Colours
In short, the range of decking oil colours may surprise those who’ve not come to paint their decking in a while. Of course, many will opt for the colours that fit within the natural spectrum of wood.
From bright and bold red cedar to a darker and heartier walnut, many proprietors will be satisfied with an Osmo colour selection that numbers well over a dozen shades.

For those looking for something a little bit different, there are non-traditional colours available such as fir green, patina, and quartz grey.
The best part regarding colour selection is that if nothing immediately catches the eye, customers can request a custom shade from the RAL colour chart.

Why Choose Osmo Natural Oil Woodstain?
With so many options on the market, it’s essential to understand the benefits of choosing the Osmo Natural Oil Woodstain. First and foremost, time-conscious homeowners can base and top cost in one finish with just a few hours’ drying time.
Secondly, the beautiful finish – which leaves the natural wood grains on display – is weatherproof and UV resistant, providing the necessary protection it requires.
Next, within the solution, there are several active ingredients which help to inhibit the growth of mildew, algae and fungi. Finally, this oil-based formulation reduces wood swelling and cracking thanks to its microporous, breathable finish, which also ensures the wood will not peel or flake.
This oil-based deck stain works best when applied to oak, beech, ash, alder, and birch. However, with either a base coat with WR Base Coat or an extended weathering period, the Osmo Natural Wood Stain can be applied to almost any wood type including thermally-modified timber (TMT).
Buy Your Industry-Leading Oil-Based Deck Stain Today
Osmo understands that only a suitable wood finish can effectively meet the needs of wood whilst retaining its natural beauty and durability. That’s why Osmo has worked diligently over the last 40-years to develop and pioneer a micro-porous, natural oil-based deck stain with an extensive selection of decking stain colours to meet customer requirements.
To peruse the full range of colours, discover Osmo Natural Wood Stain and find a supplier close to you today. Osmo UK works closely with a large network of suppliers throughout the UK and worldwide to offer all of its products in-store at your local trade shop or online.