How To Stain A Deck

With a few tools, some stain and a little time, you're set to tackle the project.

Your efforts will keep the wood from weather damage and add beauty to your deck.

Although, once you have mastered how to stain a deck, you may want to hide...

...Your friends and neighbours will be wanting you to do theirs as well.

Tools And Supplies

Roller Cages and Sleeves

Stain Brushes (3-4 Inches)

Rags

Drop Cloths

Broom

Power Sander

Roller Tray

Disposable Roller Tray Inserts (I really like these)

Rubber Gloves

Best Deck Stains

Will cover up wood defects better and add more pronounced color. It is less durable especially on horizontal surfaces and has the look of deck paint.

Clear Finish

Goes on clear and shows more of the wood grain. It doesn't provide as much UV protection.

Semi-Transparent

Soaks into the wood better and is more durable for wear and tear. The grain shows through, it looks like a sealer but can come tinted with color.

All types are available in oil or water based.

Oil seems to stay on the wood longer, but needs a solvent for clean up.

Water based deck stain is easy to clean up. Just use soap and water.

The pro's all used to swear by oils, but more and more they're changing over to the better developing latex brands.

Choose a color that YOU think, compliments the exterior of your house, so you won't to have to restain your deck.

Preparation

Sweep all debris off the deck.You can spray your deck with a garden hose or use a compressor and blower, to get in all the corners.

Make sure it's clean and dry before you start!

How To Stain A Deck

Start with the top of the rail and then stain the spindles. You can use a roller or a brush. I find a roller is faster, but you will still need to fill in the hard to reach spots with a stain brush.

Watch for drips. Stain over them as soon as you see them. They will harden and become diffucult to remove if left too long.

Don't put too much stain on your roller or brush at a time, as it can end up in a big mess.

Always leave the floor for last and plan your escape route. Don't stain yourself into a corner.

Finishing at the stairs is a good idea, so you'll always have a way out.

Stain the floor of the deck in the direction the grain runs, not across it.

You will probably want to do this project in the morning. The afternoon sun gets pretty hot and soaks up the stain. This means that you could end up using more.

One coat will do, but two coats is much better looking and will last longer.

Let the deck dry for a full day before putting your barbeque and patio furniture back. This will save needless fix-ups to your finish.

If you have any deck stain left, don't throw it away. You should save it for touch ups.

If you do have some to throw away, It doesn't do well in the landfills. Take it to your local recycling plant for disposal.

Deck Designs
Ground Level Deck
Interior Painting
How to build a deck
Best Deck Material
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