Can Composite Decking Be Stained?

Q: Can composite decking be stained?

A: Yes, you can stain worn composite decking, but since it doesn’t have genuine wood grain you’ll need to select an exterior stain/sealer with a solid color. First, clean the deck surface with a Deck Cleaning detergent and rinse thoroughly, as with any refinishing job. Apply the solid-color stain according to the manufacturer’s instructions. You can typically spray on the stain, but always back-brush the product to work it into the fibers of the decking material. Apply even coats and allow ample drying time before exposing the surface to foot traffic.