Ah, the wood deck – an iconic American symbol of indoor=outdoor living at its finest. An outdoor sanctuary, a summer stage, and, occasionally, a faded, maybe peeling and splinter-riddled beast demanding attention. While a well-stained deck can be the crown jewel of your backyard, staining your deck is a job in and of itself and not for the faint DIYer heart! Fear not though, fellow deck owners and DIYers, we are here to stain your deck if you don’t feel like it! However, if you do want to give it a go, this article will attempt to explain to you (like one might try to explain how to tie shoelaces) how to stain a deck like yours so that you can enjoy it for the summer and all year round. Please note: We highly discourage painting your deck.
Before any sort of stain material can be applied or reapplied, you must clean the surface of the wood. This is still true if the material is new as it can have a film on it from milling. Start by removing any furniture, plants, or rogue barbecue grills that have taken up residence. Sweep away leaves, dirt, and anything else that might be plotting against your perfect finish and do a good rinse with preferably a power washer. Be careful not to damage the wood or leave marks from the high pressure. You can clean mildew and mold with a mixture of water and mild detergent. Even better to use a deck brightener if it’s really dirty or has embedded mildew. After the wash, you may see some raised wood grain. Sand it down.
Your deck might be hiding secrets beneath its weathered exterior – loose nails, cracked boards, or splintering wood. Inspect and address these issues before you begin stain application. Tighten screws, replace damaged boards, and sand down rough spots. This is your chance to play deck doctor and ensure your wooden patient is in tip-top shape before the staining process begins.
Stains come in a myriad of options, but that doesn’t mean that all of the options are appropriate for your deck. From transparent to semi-transparent, semi-solid to solid, the choice can be overwhelming. Transparent stains highlight the natural beauty of the wood grain, but can only be used where transparent stain has been used before or when a deck is new. While solid stains offer robust protection and vibrant color, they act more like a paint and can start to peel. We heavily discourage solid stain, but sometimes it is unavoidable. We cannot offer much of a guarantee against peeling. If the previous owner used it, you may be stuck with it unless you have a large budget to sand it down and remove it. Consider the level of exposure your deck endures – full sun, partial shade, or the occasional monsoon – and choose accordingly. Remember, the right stain is your deck’s armor against the elements and it can save you a lot of time in ongoing maintenance.
Staining a deck isn’t just a task; it’s an event, and like any grand event, timing is crucial. Aim for a mild, dry day with temperatures between 50°F and 90°F. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can cause the stain to dry too quickly, leaving you with a patchy finish. Also, ensure no rain is in the forecast for at least 48 hours post-application. If you must stain a deck ahead of a threat of rain, use an oil-based product. We highly recommend Messmers UV Plus.
You will need:
Make sure you have everything before you get started because you don’t want to stop mid-application or in a place on your deck where you will see overlap when you pick back up again.
Most stains have stock colors. Finding the perfect color should not be difficult. Go with a semi-transparent stain like Messmer’s UV plus and choose from their 8 colors. If you need a solid or semi-solid stain, Benjamin Moore’s Wood Luxe product can be mixed into any Benjamin Moore color. Give your stain a thorough stir to ensure the pigments are evenly distributed. Before you commit to covering the entire deck, test a small, inconspicuous area. This will allow you to see how the stain interacts with your wood and ensure you’re happy with the color. Remember, stain colors can vary depending on the wood type and previous treatments, so this step is your safety net against unexpected surprises.
Now, for the main event – the application. Start with the railings and intricate areas, as these often require more precision. Use long, even strokes, working with the grain of the wood. For larger areas, a roller can speed up the process, but follow up with a brush to ensure even coverage and avoid lap marks. Work in manageable sections, and always keep a wet edge to prevent streaks. Patience and consistency are your allies here. And again, make sure to watch the weather. Do not apply more than one coat of oil-based semi-transparent paint. It will not absorb evenly and will become sticky and splotchy looking.
After stain, resist the urge to dance upon it immediately. Drying times vary depending on the stain type and weather conditions, but generally, 24-48 hours is a safe bet. You can read the product label to see what type of dry time your specific product has. Keep an eye on the forecast and ensure your deck remains dry during this period. This is the perfect time to plan your next backyard barbecue, dreaming of the compliments your newly stained deck will garner.
A beautifully stained deck is a sight to behold, but maintenance is key to preserving its glory. Regularly sweep away debris, clean up spills promptly, and give it a gentle wash as needed. Every few years, depending on wear and tear, you might need to reapply a fresh coat of stain to keep it looking its best. Think of it as a spa day for your deck – a little pampering goes a long way.
Staining a deck requires skill, preparation, precision, and patience. Feel free to call us if you don’t have those! We’d be happy to do your deck. Otherwise, follow these nine expert tips, you’ll transform your outdoor space into a stunning retreat that will stand the test of time. So, roll up your sleeves, channel your DIYer, and bring the glory to your deck that it deserves.