How to stain a deck yourself
- Tarp or cover the house, plants surrounding the deck, and any nearby concrete. ...
- Stir the stain evenly for 1 minute. ...
- Always start with vertical surfaces such as railings. ...
- After completing the railings, double-check for any missed spots or drips.
- Move on to staining the floor. ...
- Finish and staircases last.
- Stain the deck boards using a paint pad applicator attached to a pole, or a pole-equipped roller. ...
- Apply one coat of stain in long, even strokes. ...
- Use a paint brush to stain between cracks and in any problem areas.
- Once you're finished, clean the brushes and paint tray.
What is the easiest way to stain a deck?
The easiest way to stain a deck is by using the StainStick with gap wheel from HomeRight. by DeDe Bailey
How often is staining needed on a deck?
To keep a deck looking great and prolong the life of the wood, a deck should be stained every two to three years. Other signs your deck needs staining are: The deck has mold or mildew buildup. Water soaks into the deck boards and no longer beads up. The stain color is wearing off.
How do you prepare a deck for staining?
- 2 Clear and Sweep the Deck. Thoroughly clean the deck surface before staining to ensure the stain coats are applied evenly and do not peel when dry.
- 3 Prepare the Deck for Staining. The task of how to stain a deck begins with preparation. ...
- 4 Stain the Railing and Other Raised Features. ...
- 6 Stain the Stairs. ...
What do you need to know about deck staining?
- Take your brush and dip it into the can.
- Stain all of the vertical surfaces first. ...
- Make sure you don’t trap yourself in. ...
- Once you have finished staining the body of the deck, you can work your way down the stairs.
- Look at the back of the can to see if it requires 1 or 2 coats. ...
- Do not walk on the deck for 24 hours.
What to use to stain a wood floor?
How long does it take for a stain to dry?
What to do after inspecting a deck?
How to get rid of a sanded sand?
What is the easiest way to stain a deck?
4:2212:33How To Stain Your Deck Quickly And Easily - Environmentally FriendlyYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipToday. We can do it either by spray. Application or by brush. Or any other agreeable method but theMoreToday. We can do it either by spray. Application or by brush. Or any other agreeable method but the important thing is to get enough material on the wood. We've brought this little mill thickness
Is it better to roll or spray stain on a deck?
In fact, starting your staining process via spraying is often the way to go, as long as you implement the proper technique. Spraying your waterproof deck stain from the get-go allows you to cover even more area than rolling does and also reach those tighter spaces.
How can I stain my deck without a sprayer?
Rollers are a great way to apply wood stain as well for the speed at which you can apply the stain. However, when using rollers can be a disadvantage when you have hard to reach areas. If you are going to use a roller to apply your stain, make sure to have a brush as well for those hard to reach areas.
Can I just sand my deck before staining?
Sand the Deck If you plan to stain the deck, sand the surface before application to make the wood better absorb the coating. Use an orbital sander to remove any old gloss and smooth out any rough areas on decking boards. You may need to use a sanding sponge on the railings or balustrades.
What is the best tool to use to stain a deck?
You can use an airless paint sprayer to apply stain quicker than is possible with a roller or brush. While staining your deck with a sprayer is the fastest way, it helps to have some experience in using a sprayer for the best results.
Does deck stain need to be wiped?
Water-based stains need to be stripped off before you apply a new finish, while oil-based stains can be recoated after you use a deck cleaner. To test the stain: Apply a small amount of deck stripper to a small area on your deck. Let it sit for about 15 minutes, then wipe it off with a cleaning rag.
What happens if I don't power wash my deck before staining?
If you decide not to power wash beforehand, not only will your new paint not stay for very long, but your old paint will still be underneath. Pressure washing will not only remove the dirt and grime, but it can also remove old, chipped paint that may cause discrepancies in you new paint job.
How many coats of stain should you put on a deck?
two coatsWe always recommend two coats of stain for any wood project, but you should only apply as much stain as the wood can absorb. Extremely dense hardwoods may only be able to absorb one coat of wood stain. The general rule of thumb is to apply only as much as the wood can absorb.
What happens if you dont wash your deck before staining it?
But don't just slap a coat of stain on in a hurry — you'll need to clean your deck before staining it. If you stain a deck without cleaning and prepping it first, the results will look blotchy, uneven, and, well, amateur. Any time you save skipping the cleaning stage, you'll spend twice over repairing the botched job.
How do you clean and stain a deck in one day?
A Simple Way to Restore a Deck In One DaySet the Nail Heads. ... Power Wash Decking and Railings. ... Apply a Cleaner Brightener. ... Apply a Combination Stain/Sealer. ... Let Dry and Enjoy.
How much stain do I need for a 20x20 deck?
approximately 2 and 1 quarter gallonsTo stain a 20x20 ft² deck area, you'll need approximately 2 and 1 quarter gallons (2.25 gal). You can get this result by assuming that 1 gallon can cover up to 175 ft2. Also, consider this amount is for one coat of stain.
What should I wash my deck with before staining?
We'd also recommend using a deck brightener before staining your deck, though this step isn't required. Deck cleaners, such as the Wood Deck Cleaner and Brightener by DeckWise or the TimberTech Deck Cleaner, will lift and remove any stuck-on grime from your wood deck boards.
Can deck stain be applied with a roller?
Rollers do the best job of distributing stain evenly. And because it also happens to be the fastest way to stain your deck, choosing a roller to do the job is a no-brainer.
Is it better to paint a deck with a brush or a roller?
For the best coverage of your deck, using a paint or stain brush is your best bet. It may require a bit more effort and time, but the results will speak for themselves. Using a roller is also a great option, as it speeds up the process while still achieving good coverage.
What is the best way to apply stain to wood?
The best way to apply stain is with a lint free rag and wiping it into the grain of the wood. Using a lint free rag is the best way to apply wood stain because it is great for controlling the amount of stain that is applied and for removing any excess stain.
Is it better to spray stain?
Brush/Roller: We highly recommend using a brush to apply stain to your product. It's an easy way to ensure that you have covered every part of your wood, and that you do an even coat. It can take a little more time but it's cost effective because you have little to no wasted product.
Best Stain for an Old Deck | Best Deck Stain Reviews Ratings
This post was updated on January 19, 2022 . What is Best Stain for Old Wood Deck. We appreciate you visiting Deckstainhelp.com as we continue to be your go-to source for the latest in deck restoration news and trending topics through 2022 If you are looking for honest deck stain ratings, look no further.
What is the best way to stain a deck? And how do I stain my deck for the first time?
First, clean the deck appropriately, especially if it's been a few years since your last staining. You want to avoid using a pressure-washer because it could damage the boards. Instead, use your hose to spray any dirt off the deck. Then let it dry thoroughly. Next, sand any spots that need to be smoothed, and sweep away the dust. Tape up any spots you don't want to get stain on using painter's tape. Now you’re ready to stain.
What are some popular deck-stain colors?
The best way to select a color for your deck is to evaluate the overarching color of your yard and choose something in the same tone. But if you need inspiration, here are three popular colors that won’t steer you wrong.
How to apply wood stain?
Apply your stain using a natural bristled brush going with the grain of the wood. Yes, you're going to be tempted to use a roller—it's a lot faster to cover all that area with a roller than to paint it on by hand—but the brush will do a better job of getting the stain into the grain of the wood. If you do opt for a roller, go over ...
How long does it take for a stain to dry after rolling?
Tip: Aim to stain in the morning or evening, not during peak sun time at midday. Wait 24 to 48 hours after staining for the stain to dry.
Is staining a deck a chore?
While it may not be the household chore you most look forward to, staining a deck is an essential part of home maintenance and not a task to be skipped. Thankfully, it's also a backyard idea that won't break the bank. Whether you're installing a new DIY floating deck or re-sealing your existing deck to keep it safe and attractive, ...
Who is Ashley Leath?
Ashley Leath Ashley Leath is the Copy/Research Editor for Country Living and Veranda magazines.
Does Country Living make a commission?
Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. More about us.
How to Choose the Right Stain
Start by seriously considering what you want in the end result. If you have gorgeous wood, you don’t want to cover it up. In this case, a transparent stain is a good bet. There are also semi-transparent and semi-solid stains, which can still allow the wood to show through but add a bit of color as well.
How to Stain a Wood Deck
Start by making certain the deck is as clean as possible. You can use a pressure washer to make quick work of this, but you will also need to do some scrubbing by hand, as you want to avoid any areas that might make the stain uneven. A good cleaner is essential to combat mold and mildew.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Knowing when to stain is just as important as choosing the stain. You want to stain on a day when there isn’t high humidity that will leave the stain wet for a long while, which isn’t what you want. On the other hand, a day of very high temperatures can mean the stain dries very quickly, and that can lead to uneven penetration and a splotchy look.
Always Read the Label and the Instructions
Finally, remember that less is not necessarily more. Though it might be tempting to add more than one coat with the idea that it will help protect the deck, applying too much actually just creates unsightly buildup. Always apply stain as directed on the packaging.
Tips for staining a deck yourself
Deck staining is a very important process that improves the appearance of your deck and helps to protect it from the elements. A good quality stain can help your deck last for a much longer period of time than if left untreated.
Prep your deck first
First of all, you must prep the deck correctly. If you miss this step, it is likely problems will occur in the future.
How to stain a deck yourself
Tarp or cover the house, plants surrounding the deck, and any nearby concrete. Make sure if spraying that you pay close attention to overspray and that it only lands on the tarps.
What stain will protect the longest?
Opaque stains will also protect your deck the longest. Whichever stain you choose, you'll likely be applying it like this: With a brush, apply the stain to the more-difficult-to-cover areas like board ends, corners, cracks and in-betweens.
How long does semi transparent stain last on a deck?
They still come right through, just with a slight tint. Semi-transparent stains can protect your deck for three years or more. Semi-colored: Another step up in opacity, semi-colored stains have more pigment, increased coverage, and longer life -- they can protect for up to five years.
What are the different types of outdoor wood stain?
While there are differences in how they act, your choice will be related mostly to aesthetics -- specifically, color and opacity. There are four main types of outdoor wood stains: Advertisement. Clear/yransparent: Sometimes called wood toner, these stains are basically clear sealants.
What is the best stain for outdoor furniture?
There are four main types of outdoor wood stains: 1 Clear/yransparent: Sometimes called wood toner, these stains are basically clear sealants. They're either colorless or very lightly tinted, and they're the way to go if you want a totally natural look. This type of stain may not last as long as the others, though, so you may find you need to re-do the process more often to protect your deck. 2 Semi-transparent: This one's got just a bit more pigment, so you can give your deck some oomph -- but not so much the natural properties of the wood disappear. They still come right through, just with a slight tint. Semi-transparent stains can protect your deck for three years or more. 3 Semi-colored: Another step up in opacity, semi-colored stains have more pigment, increased coverage, and longer life -- they can protect for up to five years. This stain gives you bolder options in color choice. It also hides more of the natural tones and textures of your wood. 4 Colored/opaque: At the top of the opacity spectrum, opaque stains hide your wood with pigment. If you want a red deck that matches your house's red trim, this is probably the way to go. Opaque stains will also protect your deck the longest.
Is it necessary to brighten a deck?
Brightening. While not strictly necessary, wood brightener is a great way to bring out the original look of the wood you loved so much you built a deck with it. Cedar and redwood benefit from a brightening product especially, but it can make any wood look fresher and has the added benefit of removing rust and mildew.
Do deck stain colors last?
They're either colorless or very lightly tinted, and they're the way to go if you want a totally natural look. This type of stain may not last as long as the others, though, so you may find you need to re-do the process more often to protect your deck.
Do you have to remove old stain before applying new stain?
Stripping. If your deck has been stained previously, and you're adjusting the color, you'll need to remove the old before applying the new or else the new finish won't "take" the way you want it to. This is also your chance to eliminate any old-finish flakes or stray wood fibers.
What to Use for Staining a Deck
A paint roller is one of the tools essential to apply stain smoothly and efficiently. Choose a roller for this task with a nap that can hold a good amount of stain and spread it out quickly. Look for rollers with a nap of 1/4 to 3/16 inches for a smooth deck surface and a nap of 3/8 to 1/2 inch for rougher or textured wood surfaces.
Check the Weather
Wondering when to stain a new deck? After construction, the deck’s wood needs time to acclimate. In most cases, you should wait six to 12 months to stain your new deck.
Clear and Sweep the Deck
Thoroughly clean the deck surface before staining to ensure the stain coats are applied evenly and do not peel when dry. The deck must be free of dirt and dust, mildew, grease and organic debris like leaves and wood fibers.
Prepare the Deck for Staining
The process of how to stain a deck begins with preparation. Applying stain over damaged wood does not improve the deck’s appearance or protect it from the elements. Whether your deck is new or more seasoned, check to ensure there is no damaged wood and the structure is sound.
Stain the Railing and Other Raised Features
The first step is to apply stain to the handrails, balusters and spindles. Before applying any stain, use painter’s tape to protect areas like the house's siding. Sweep the deck one more time to remove any leaves, dust or debris that might have settled while the cleaner was drying.
Stain the Deck Boards
Before you begin to stain the deck boards, decide if you want to use exterior stairs or the door to your house as your exit. This comes in handy when it is time to do the next step. Apply the stain while moving in the direction of your exit. Don’t stain yourself into a corner.
Stain the Stairs
Once you’ve applied stain to the railings and deck floor, all that’s left is to stain the stairs. Use a large paint brush or hand-held paint pad applicator for best results. Deliver an even coat of stain to the stairs and add another coat if needed.
What to use after stripping wood?
A neutralizer or brightener should be applied after chemically stripping the wood to restore the pH of the wood. It is recommended to clean any surface you plan to paint, stain, or seal, and a deck is no different. For decks with mold or mildew, a mildewcide cleaner should be used.
How long does it take for a deck to dry?
To avoid stripping or sanding the old stain off your deck, thoroughly clean and rinse it, and then let the wood dry for 24 to 48 hours. Apply the same (or darker) stain color or tint from the same manufacturer. Otherwise, you’ll need to strip or sand the old stain out.
What is the best cleaner for decks?
For decks with mold or mildew, a mildewcide cleaner should be used. Wood that has weathered and grayed will benefit from a restorative cleaner or brightener. An all-purpose deck cleaner with a mild detergent in it to remove dirt, grease, and grime will work for most decks.
Where to test stain on deck?
Always test the stain on the deck where it won’t be seen. You don’t want to be halfway done and decide you don’t like it.
What is a transparent stain?
Transparent stains show the wood grain, color, and texture while the solid stains mask the grain and color, but not the texture. Transparent stains will gray unless they are tinted to provide UV protection, so pick a tinted one that most closely matches the desired wood tone.
What is the difference between transparent and solid stain?
Transparent stains show the wood grain, color, and texture while the solid stains mask the grain and color, but not the texture. Transparent stains will gray unless they are tinted to provide UV protection, so pick a tinted one that most closely matches the desired wood tone.
What to do if you don't want stains?
Tape plastic or paper over surfaces that you don’t want stained.
What to use to stain a wood floor?
You should use a roller brush or sprayer to apply a steady coat of quality stain, such as Olympic Elite stains or Olympic MAXIMUM stains . If you see that too much wood stain has been used in an area, use a roller or brush to fix the imperfections.
How long does it take for a stain to dry?
Wood stains needs 24 to 48 hours to dry, but this may vary depending on the deck and wood. The time that it will take for the stain to dry will also depend on the temperature and humidity in your location. Once the stain is dry, you can put back your furniture and start entertaining.
What to do after inspecting a deck?
After you finish inspecting the deck, you may have to remove and replace any imperfections. Repairing may be an option. Use your best judgment. The most important step to staining is cleaning your deck. A clean surface allows the stain to soak in and properly cure.
How to get rid of a sanded sand?
Wash away the residue with a hose or pressure washer, using low to moderate pressure.