
What is the ideal temperature to stain a deck?
Things To Consider
- Ideal Temperature. So, what is the temperature range to stain a deck? ...
- Season. Summer is considered to be the best season for staining the deck. ...
- Rain. Before starting the staining process, always check the forecasts. ...
- Part of the Day. Mornings are the best time of day to stain a deck. ...
When is it too cold to stain a deck?
Do not stain a wood deck in cold weather where the temperature is below 50 degrees. The ideal temperature to stain wood at is 68 degrees, but any temperature within the range of 50 degrees to 90 degrees will work. Cold weather increases the stain’s viscosity and hinders drying. Staining in cold weather has problems.
When is the best time to stain a deck?
- Sweep the deck to remove all leaves and other debris.
- Apply wood cleaner to the surface of the deck and allow it to remain on the wood surface for about 15 minutes.
- Work the cleaner into the surface of the deck with a scrub brush. ...
What time of year is best to stain your deck?
When is the Best Time to Stain Your Deck?
- Hat Basket – One popular idea is a hat basket. ...
- Shower/Pamper Basket - If your teen or older child isn’t into baseball hats, try a bag of shower goodies. ...
- Starbucks Basket/Cup - Another fun idea for a teen who likes Starbucks is to get them a Starbucks thermos for their “basket” and fill it with a Starbucks gift ...

Can you stain a deck when it's cold?
Avoid the Cold If you're staining your deck in the spring or fall, wait for a day with highs above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, make sure freezing temperatures aren't in the forecast for that night. If it drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit before the stain has thoroughly dried, it can hinder the curing process.
What outside temperature can you stain a deck?
The suggested temperature range for applying deck stain is on average 45-95 degrees Fahrenheit.
At what temperature should you not stain outside?
As a rule of thumb, with older decks make sure the temperature is over 50 degrees, sunny, but not hotter than around 80 degrees.
Can you stain wood in 40 degree weather?
“Staining wood usually works between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit,” says Phillip Ash, the founder of Pro Paint Corner, “but the best temperature would be at around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.” Some brands or types of stains may work outside that range, but it's the generally accepted best temperature for staining wood.
What happens if you stain when it's too cold?
If it's too wet or cold, the drying time for stains can easily double. In extreme cases, the product will just stay wet until the humidity decreases or the temperatures rises. Oppositely, if it's too warm, the stain will dry very quickly and could lead to lap marks or uneven penetration.
How long does stain take to dry in cold weather?
Oil-based stains take longer to dry, even in cold weather, so be sure to follow the product's instructions. It could be up to 48 hours.
Whats the lowest temperature you can stain wood at?
Most stains can be applied from about 50° F to 90° F — but many people don't realize this range refers to the temperature of the wood surface, not the air. A day that's 70°F and sunny can push deck surface temperatures above 90°F leading to application challenges and shortened open times.
How long does it take for a stained deck to dry?
With the temperature above 60 degrees, an oil-based deck stain typically dries in 4-24 hours. Most can take rain within 12 hours though as water will not “wash” out the oil stain from the wood. Wait 24-72 hours for full cure before walking on the deck and replacing furniture.
Can you stain wood in the cold?
Wood stain works in a wide range of temperatures. Staining at temperatures ranging from 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit usually works, but the optimal temperature is around the mid-70s, not too hot and not too cold.
Is it too late to stain my deck?
The effects that can occur due to a lack of treatment are aesthetic in nature. After 6 months, the wood will start to lose its color and will begin to fade. Ultimately it will fade to grey or silver.
How long does deck stain take to dry before rain?
Applying Stain Remember, no rain 24 hours before you apply stain and no rain 24 hours after the staining project.
Do you need to power wash a deck before staining?
There is a common misconception that just pressure washing a deck prior to staining is all you need to do in order to prep your deck for stain. Pressure washing can help, but if you want your stain to last, using a good deck cleaner and brightener on the deck prior to pressure washing will provide you the best result.
What to use instead of staining a deck?
Additionally, if the deck is VERY old and the wood is cracked or falling apart - instead of staining you should use a deck resurfacer. Deck resurfacers fill in the cracks on the wood and create a sort of shell around the wood of the deck itself. Check out our de ck resurfacer for older wood below. See Deck Resurfacer. Deck Stain Color Advice.
Can you stain wood after it rains?
Additionally the temperature outside should not be 'too hot' or 'too cold' or the stain will not apply properly to the wood. Check out Olympic Maximum - a wood stain that can be applied after it rains and even in temperatures down to 50 degrees. See Weather Ready Stain.
Can you stain an old deck?
Newer wood, treated wood - both absorb moisture in different ways. If your deck is really old it may be more porous than a smooth treated younger deck and so it may absord more stain depending on the temperature of the wood.
Can You Stain A Deck In Cold Weather?
Do not stain a wood deck in cold weather where the temperature is below 50 degrees. The ideal temperature to stain wood at is 68 degrees, but any temperature within the range of 50 degrees to 90 degrees will work. Cold weather increases the stain’s viscosity and hinders drying.
Cold Weather Staining Problems
Staining in cold weather has problems. The biggest of those problems is the slow drying of the stains. That’™s why the people living in colder areas prefer to stain during the day, rather than at night.
Ideal Weather Conditions for Staining
If you can consider some things before staining, it’™ll be great for your decks. As a matter of fact, it doesn’™t matter if you’™re staining in summer or winter, these factors are applicable for all.
How to Stain a Deck in Cold Weather
Yes, we know that it’™s not ideal to stain the deck in colder climates. But, if you live in a cold area and don’™t have any other option left, you’™ll have to continue with the work.
When is the best time to stain a deck?
You are likely to find such days in either late spring or early to mid-autumn.
How long does it take to stain a deck?
The amount of time it will take up depends on how big the deck is. You will want to set aside a minimum of two days, including drying time.
Why is my deck stain peeling?
If you stain your deck too soon, in the spring season, it may result in cracking and peeling, the wood pores saturating, making it extremely difficult for them to take in the treatment. The summer month is problematic for another reason; in summer, the temperature, being high, may result in the stain evaporating far too quickly, ...
Why is staining a deck important?
Staining it is a great way to renew your deck’s appearance, helping it remain in top condition in the long run.
Why do decks peel and crack?
The reason for this is that humidity is absorbed by the wood in these seasons, whereas it is best receptive to new stain treatments when it is dry. If you stain your deck too soon, in the spring season, it may result in cracking and peeling, ...
What does it mean when water is absorbed on a deck?
If, however, the water instead beads up, standing on the deck, it means that the deck doesn’t need to be stained as yet. Unless your just trying to improve the overall appearance .
When to apply stain to wood?
You want to apply the stain when the wood surface and air are in the temperature range of 50° – 90°F. You also want to avoid the direct application of sunlight. Lastly, do not apply a stain if there is a forecast of rain in the following one to two days, or all your hard work could end up being washed away. You want to pick a day that’s warm ...
Why do decks need to be stained?
The sun, rain, snow, and even wind can cause the appearance of your deck to look old and worn. Staining your deck can not only make the structure look new again but it can also help the deck stay in good condition longer. The best time to stain you deck is when you have two things that can work together, time and the weather.
How long does it take to power wash a deck?
Depending on how large your deck is will depend on how long it will take you. Ultimately you want two set aside at least two days. If you need to power wash your deck or replace any boards it may take you an extra day or two.
Why is my wood stain peeling?
Staining too early in the spring may lead to peeling or cracking because the wood pores are still saturated, making it very difficult for the wood to absorb the treatment.
Can you stain a deck in the sun?
It is ideal to stain your deck in a season that experiences mild temperatures. Extreme heat or sun can work against you when you are staining your deck. The direct sunlight can cause the deck to dry too quickly which will leave water marks.
How long does it take for wood to dry before staining?
Proper dry time is anywhere from 4-12 months depending on your area's climate and weather. It's ideal to allow the wood to season to a 15% or less moisture reading.
How to test for mill glaze?
To test for this condition, simply apply water to the area and let it sit for a few minutes. If you see the water beading up and failing to penetrate, you'll need to address the issue. If you're seeing signs of mill glaze, you'll want to use a wood brightener on your deck lumber, followed by a light wash and thorough rinse.
Can you use oil soaked stain rags before disposal?
When done with your oil-soaked stain rags, it is important to handle them properly before disposal. Lay them flat on the ground in single layers to dry fully. Be sure to check out this helpful tutorial from Dunn DIY for more information.
Can you stain wood more than it absorbs?
Don’t apply more stain than the wood can absorb. Over-application is the most common problem people experience. More is not always better, and puddling stains can turn into a gummy mess that will create hours of additional work to rectify. Work in small areas, keeping a “wet edge” as you go along.
Is it safe to stain a deck before it is dry?
Staining your deck before it is completely dry runs the risk of trapping moisture that could lead to mold or mildew challenges. Consider using a moisture meter to help you determine if your deck is dry enough for staining to begin.
