2026 Deck Stain Trends

January 9th, 2025

2 min read

Outside corner of a small deck with a light stain on the wood.

The color of your deck doesn’t have to stick out like a sore thumb. There are a multitude of staining options to get your deck to adhere to your style. We have seen deck stains have their own trends and common stains of the year.

At Brush & Roll Painting in Omaha, NE, we have been refinishing decks since 1996. While serving hundreds of customers, we have noticed deck staining trends and colors that have become popular this spring/summer.

In this article, we will provide both trends and stain colors that are all over Omaha homes for 2025. By reading this article, you might have a better idea of what you are looking for with your next deck staining project.

Wood Deck Stain Trends

Two-Toned Decks

Deck with white railings and warm brown stain on wood. Deck has patio furniture and grill on with flowers along the exterior of the house.

A common trend that we are seeing this year is choosing two separate shades for staining decks. This style makes the railings stand out from the wood and vice-versa.

Many homeowners have done the railings a lighter shade and the base of the deck a darker shade. This trend will make your deck stand out from others in your neighborhood!

Light Deck Stains with Black Iron Railings

Lightly stained wooden deck with curvy iron black railings and rods.

If you have black iron railings, A lighter tan-brown shade is a flawless match. It is modern but timeless. It can also match any exterior paint color, especially neutrals or light blues.

Wooden Deck Stain Shades

Chocolate-deep Brown Shade on Decks

Deck being stained a chocolate deep brown shade with a brush.

A chocolate shade of brown is a classic color for decks. It pairs well with nearly every shade for the exterior of homes.

A darker brown deck base is fairly simple to decorate and accessorize with. Whether you love lots of plants on your deck or a few furniture pieces, or both, the versatility is endless.

Lighter Solid Colors On Decks

Deck that has been stained with a solid-color, white.

This transformation brings a fresh and contemporary vibe to outdoor spaces. While white and grey have been popular choices, the palette extends far beyond these hues. Solid stains allow homeowners to explore a wide range of colors to match their personal style and the overall aesthetics of their homes.

Solid light shades create a clean and airy ambiance, making outdoor areas feel more open and inviting. The subtle charm of these hues lies in their ability to reflect sunlight, creating an atmosphere that's both relaxing and up-lifting.

Medium Brown Stains on Decks

Deck in process of being stained. On the left, the wooden boards are stained a medium brown shade and on the right they are sanded, ready to be stained.

In the ever-evolving world of color and trends, the medium brown shade remains a favorite for deck stains. Its popularity is attributed to its versatility and time-tested appeal. A medium brown stain is like a reliable friend – it complements a wide array of outdoor wood pieces, seamlessly merging with different architectural styles and landscape designs.

This classic choice brings a sense of warmth and familiarity. Whether your deck hosts cozy gatherings, tranquil moments of solitude, or vibrant social events, a medium brown stain harmonizes effortlessly with these experiences.

As a go-to stain for outdoor wood, the medium brown shade maintains its status as a beloved option for those seeking a timeless and versatile aesthetic for their decks.

The Best Trend or Deck Stain for You

In conclusion, when it comes to deck staining trends and colors for 2026, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you prefer the modern look of two-toned decks, the classic appeal of chocolate-deep brown shades, or the versatility of medium brown stains, there is a stain for every style.

At Brush & Roll Painting, we know how crucial the right stain and the right style is. Your deck is a primary feature of the exterior of your home, so it's important that you love it's look and that it stands the test of time.

If you are ready to transform your deck and make it stand out, download your deck staining project checklist to help guide you through the process.

Kaylea Kuhlman

Kaylea is the Content Manager at Brush & Roll Painting, where she leads the company’s marketing strategy, content creation, and brand messaging. She graduated summa cum laude from the University of Nebraska at Omaha with a degree in Journalism and Media Communications and a minor in Marketing, combining strong writing skills with a clear understanding of how to connect with homeowners. Since joining Brush & Roll Painting at the end of 2022, Kaylea has played a key role in shaping how the company communicates with its customers. She works closely with the team to turn real, on-the-job experience into helpful, easy-to-understand content that answers the questions homeowners are already asking. Her approach focuses on clarity, honesty, and making sure people feel confident before starting a painting project. Kaylea’s work helps bridge the gap between technical painting knowledge and everyday decision-making. Whether it’s explaining the difference between paint finishes, helping homeowners choose the right cabinet color, or breaking down what to expect from a professional painting process, her goal is always the same: to make the process feel simple and stress-free. Topics Kaylea Covers: Kaylea writes and creates content across all areas of residential painting, including: -Interior painting (walls, ceilings, trim, and woodwork) -Exterior painting and maintenance -Cabinet painting and refinishing -Deck staining and wood care -Paint colors, finishes, and design decisions -What to expect when hiring a professional painter -Common homeowner questions, concerns, and mistakes to avoid Her content is designed to give homeowners clear answers, set realistic expectations, and help them make confident decisions about their home.

Topics:

Deck & Fence

Paint & Finishes