Can you stain or paint? What would be the best stain?

Stain will not absorb into the wood if it has been painted. that is the difference.. paint stays on top of wood and stain is created to be absorbed and show wood textures etc. It would probably peel

You can paint over stain but you cannot stain over paint. The paint can be sanded off then you could stain the railings. You can also use a darker stain over the stained flooring.

You can for sure paint over stain, if it is completely dry. Stain over paint will act like an "antiquating technic" used many years ago to turn modern furniture or cabinets in to "instant" antiques. (yeah I'm that old-sigh)

However if your paint is worn out and chipping/flecking off then a good sanding will remove the worst and a good deck paint could be applied. Contact a paint supplier and ask for their recommendations as to what is best for you area.

oops dbl post

to get a even look on the deck it will be in your best interest to strip the exsisting finish

You can't paint over stain, find out...maybe pressure wash it and see what you get.

I'm sorry! I meant you can't stain over paint! :)