Deck & Timber Painting: Oil vs Stain vs Paint

Decks, pergolas and timber fences take the most weather of anything on a Sydney property. The finish you choose — oil, stain or paint — determines how often you'll redo it and how it looks in between.

Oil

Best for: new hardwood decks and timber you want to keep looking natural.

• Soaks into the timber rather than sitting on the surface
• Brings out the grain and natural colour
• Never peels, just fades — so it's easy to recoat
• Needs redoing every 6–12 months in exposed spots

Stain

Best for: adding colour while still showing the grain.

• Available in water-based and oil-based formulas
• Adds a tint without hiding the timber
• Lasts 1–3 years depending on exposure

Paint

Best for: older or patchy timber you want to fully cover, and a uniform look.

• Forms a film over the surface, hiding imperfections
• Lasts 5–8 years with good preparation
• Needs the timber to be clean, dry and stable first

Preparation is everything

Whatever the finish, the timber must be clean, dry and free of old flaking coating. Professionals wash, sand and — for paint — prime before applying. Skipping preparation is why DIY deck finishes often peel within a year.

What it costs

Professional deck coating typically costs $25–$45 per square metre depending on the finish, access and how much sanding is needed. Fences are usually cheaper per metre, especially with spray application.

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