Staining a deck is one of the most important projects you can do to protect your home’s wood. BEHR wood stains seal out unwanted moisture while still allowing your deck to showcase its natural wood texture.
Choose from transparent, semi-transparent and solid color stains. Water-based stains require less maintenance, but oil-based stains wear better and provide more color penetration. Contact Mount Joy Company LLC for professional help.
With the weather warming up, it’s time to start thinking about all those outdoor projects you’ve been putting off while it was too cold. Among them, staining your deck is one of the most important home improvement jobs you can undertake this spring. Taking the time to stain your deck properly will not only make it look great, but also protect and extend its life.
Before you can begin, your deck must be clean, free of mildew stains and dirt. Wash the wood surfaces with a deck cleaner, like Cabot Problem Solver Wood Cleaner, to remove any buildup and contaminants. Rinse thoroughly to remove any residual cleaner. Let the wood dry completely for two to three days.
After your deck has been cleaned, you must decide what type of stain to use. You can choose between water-based stains, oil-based stains or semi-transparent stains. Water-based stains are easier to apply, dry quickly and require less maintenance than oil-based stains. They are also lower in VOCs (volatile organic compounds) than oil-based stains, so they have a better environmental impact.
Semi-transparent stains are transparent enough to allow the natural wood grain to show through, but they also provide some color retention and protection. They’re available in a wide range of colors, including clear finishes. They may fade slightly over time, but will still provide good UV protection and help keep your deck looking new for longer than a solid stain.
Oil-based stains are a bit more difficult to apply, but they last longer and provide a richer color. They are also low in VOCs, so they have a better environmental impact than water-based stains.
Solid stains are thicker than other stains, so they will cover the wood grain and offer a variety of color options. However, they may be harder to clean, and they can be difficult to lighten or restore if you want to go back to a more natural-looking deck.
Once you’ve decided what type of stain to use, plan your project carefully. It’s best to apply the stain when the air and surface temperatures are between 50 and 90 degrees F, and avoid applying it in direct sunlight if possible. The sun dries out stain quickly, which can cause uneven color and brush marks.
Cleaning
As soon as the frost has melted and the warm weather arrives, homeowners are eager to tackle the dozens of lawn and garden projects they had put on hold during the winter. Staining a deck is one of those tasks that can add great appeal to the outdoor living area and enhance the look of the home. But before a single drop of stain can be applied, the surface must be clean and free of any contaminants that may interfere with the stain’s performance.
The cleaning process is usually done with a power washer, but it is important to use the right type of cleaner in order to avoid damaging the wood. A non-toxic wood cleaner is the best option, such as a mildew and mold killer. Oxygen bleach is another safe cleaning agent that will brighten the wood and remove dirt stains. It can also kill any mold and mildew growing on the surface of a stained deck, and it is available as a powder that needs to be mixed with water according to product instructions.
Before beginning the cleaning process, it is recommended that you remove any furniture from the deck or fence and set it aside. This is a good opportunity to sweep the deck to get rid of any loose dust or debris. Then, you can use a garden hose and wood cleaner to spray the surface of the deck. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the type of cleaner and the distance that you should keep the nozzle from the surface in order to avoid gouging the surface.
Once the deck is clean, you can start by sanding the areas where it has worn down. This will help to smooth the rough surface and prepare it for the new stain. It is also a good idea to inspect the deck for any areas that need replacement or repair. If you notice any signs of rot, make sure that the rotten sections are replaced before re-staining the deck.
There are a number of different ways to apply the stain, but a paint brush is the most effective way. It will work the stain deep into the pores of a board, and it is always a good idea to back-brush your work when you are applying a wood stainer.
Staining
Staining does more than add color to a deck, it protects against water damage, rot and mold, as well as other pesky problems. Preparing for the staining process and applying it correctly is key to a successful project. Gathering the right materials, tools, cleaners and stain is a big step toward a smooth, long-lasting job.
Before you can start staining, it’s important that the wood surface is free of mildew stains, dirt and debris. Sweep the area thoroughly and scrub it with a screwdriver to get into crevices and at the ends of boards where dirt tends to collect. If there are any noticeable stains, clean them with Cabot Problem Solver Wood Cleaner and rinse well before staining. It’s also best to do this before a major weather change as it can affect how the stain dries and the overall result.
When the deck is ready to be stained, the first thing you’ll need to do is decide what type of stain you want to use. There are different options available, depending on your specific needs and budget. Clear stains offer a natural look, allowing the wood grain and texture to show through. They are typically used on newer decks or in areas that don’t receive a lot of sunlight.
Semi-transparent stains offer a bit of color, while still allowing the wood to shine through and offering moderate protection against sun and moisture. These are the most popular stain option and can be used on most decks.
Solid stains are more like traditional exterior paint, providing the most coverage and hiding the wood grain. However, they are not ideal for decks, as foot traffic and the freeze-thaw cycle cause them to wear down quickly and require re-application every season or two.
Water-based stains are easy to clean and typically contain less VOCs (volatile organic compounds) than oil-based stains. They are available in a wide range of colors and can be applied with a roller, brush or stain pad applicator. For a smooth finish, it is recommended to apply the stain in the direction of the grain. A technique known as “back brushing” is also recommended, where you will take a large paintbrush and go over the stain after it’s been applied to help it soak into the deck wood better.
Drying
Your deck is an important part of your home. It’s a place for relaxing and making memories, so it’s important to maintain it properly. A well-executed stain job not only enhances the look of your deck, but it also protects and extends its lifespan. Staining your deck every two to three years will help preserve its beauty and longevity.
Before applying any stain, you should always clean your deck thoroughly. This will remove any dirt, debris, or mold buildup that may be present on the surface of your deck. It’s also a good idea to use a wood brightener after cleaning, as this will neutralize the pH level of your deck’s wood, and help the color and finish of your stain last longer.
Whether you’re staining a new deck or restained one, it’s best to apply your stain on a warm, dry day. This will ensure that the stain dries properly and quickly.
Check the weather forecast in advance to see if rain is expected before starting your staining project. If rain is in the forecast, it’s a good idea to cover your deck with a tarp to prevent water from coming into contact with your freshly-applied stain.
Once your deck is stained, it’s important to let the stain dry completely before using it for heavy traffic or placing any furniture on it. To speed up the drying process, use a fan or open windows to provide ventilation. You should also avoid walking on your deck while it’s drying. If you have to, try to walk on the edges of your deck or use a designated pathway to minimize contact with the newly-stained surface.
There are many different types of stain available on the market, so it’s important to decide what type is right for your deck. Water-based stains and acrylic stains are low in VOCs, meaning they’re less toxic and dry faster than oil-based stains. However, they’re not as durable and don’t offer the same protection from sun damage that oil-based stains do.
Solid and semisolid stains are more opaque and contain a lot of pigmentation, so they’re the most protective against sun damage. They’re also a great choice for revitalizing old pressure treated decking. When applying these stains, it’s best to work on a section of two or three boards at a time, working from end to end to blend any lap marks.