Proper Deck Staining

A beautiful deck is often preferred over today’s synthetic wood products used for decking surfaces. Decks made with wood are warmer and more traditional, but come with a bit more maintenance than new synthetic decks. Decks are one of the most...

A beautiful deck is often preferred over today’s synthetic wood products used for decking surfaces. Decks made with wood are warmer and more traditional, but come with a bit more maintenance than new synthetic decks.

Decks are one of the most challenging surfaces to seal and protect due to many outlying variables. Weather, wood type/age, previous stain, temperature and exposure to sunlight all play a part in deck staining. Don’t worry, once prep work is completed and the deck is stained, you are protecting the wood from rot, insects and the elements. Here we will cover what you should know about proper deck staining.

Deck Prep Work

The right preparation of the deck surface will ultimately yield the best results. First-Cleaning dirt and debris off decking surfaces is probably easiest done by power washing. Second-Take care of extruding nails or screws on the deck surface or on railings. Sand to remove any areas where previous sealant is preventing exposure to wood. If the new stain can’t penetrate the old sealant, the new stain will dry on-top of the old stain and will dry with an odd sheen and eventually crack.

Previously Stained?

Applying the stain by rollers and then following up with a brush to even out the volume of stain on the wood surface is a common practice. More complicated surfaces such as lattice can even be sprayed with stain.

Deck stain will keep its color for 2-4 years depending on the environmental factors. Direct sunlight, snow, and rain, extreme temperatures will help fade the stain and eventually the process will have to be repeated.

If you have questions on your deck staining projects, contact us for a free quote!