When it comes to deck staining, many homeowners feel like they’re on their own.
They might watch a few YouTube videos or read a couple of blog posts and think that they can handle the project themselves.
But deck staining is more complicated than it seems, and if you don’t know what you’re doing, you could end up with a deck that looks terrible and doesn’t last very long.
In this blog post, I’m going to share some tips for deck staining that will help you get great results every time.
What Is Deck Staining?
Deck staining is the process of applying a protective coating to your deck. This fresh coat can help protect the deck from water damage, UV damage, and other types of wear and tear.
It’s important to stain your deck regularly, especially if it’s made from wood, to keep it looking its best.
Some of the best deck stains are the Thompson’s WaterSeal Transparent Wood Sealer, Ready Seal Wood Stain and Sealer, and Cabot’s Australian Timber Oil.
Types of Deck Staining
There are two main types of deck stains: solid stains and semi-transparent stains.
Solid stains provide the most coverage and protection, but they can also be difficult to apply evenly. Semi-transparent stains offer less coverage but are easier to apply, and they allow you to see the grain of the wood.
When choosing a deck stain, it’s important to consider the type of wood your deck is made from. Some woods are more porous than others, and some are more likely to fade in the sun.
You’ll also want to think about the color you want for your deck. If you want a natural look, choose a stain that is close to the color of the wood. If you want a deck that makes a statement, go for a bolder color.
Tips For Staining Your Deck
- Start by cleaning your deck. You’ll want to remove any dirt, debris, or stains that are on the surface. Power washing can be helpful for this step or try special deck cleaners as well.
- Next, it’s time to sand the deck. This will help create a smooth surface for the stain to adhere to.
- Once you’ve sanded the deck boards, it’s important to remove any dust that’s left behind. A vacuum can be helpful for this step.
- Now you’re ready to stain the deck. Make sure to follow the instructions on the can, and apply the stain evenly.
- Once you’ve applied the wood stain, it’s important to let it dry completely before using the wood surface.
What are the benefits of doing it yourself vs hiring a pro?
- It's cheaper. Deck staining can be expensive, but if you do it yourself, you'll save a lot of money.
- You have control over the finished product. You can choose the color and type of stain you want, and you can be sure that the job is done right.
- You'll get to enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done.
However, there are also some benefits to hiring a deck staining pro:
- They have the experience and knowledge to get the job done right.
- They have the proper equipment to do the job quickly and efficiently.
- They can properly stain your deck in a fraction of the time it would take you to do it yourself.
If you’re considering deck staining, weigh the pros and cons of doing it yourself versus hiring a professional. Depending on your situation, one option might be better than the other.
Check out our article on choosing the best contractor that will help you with refinishing your deck and staining it.
Hiring A Pro? Consider These Tips
- Get multiple quotes. Deck staining can be expensive, so it's important to get multiple quotes from different companies. This will help you find the best deck staining costs.
- Check reviews. When you're hiring a deck staining pro, you want to be sure that you're hiring someone who is reputable and has a good track record. Checking online reviews is a great way to do this.
- Be clear about your expectations. Before the job starts, be sure to discuss your vision for the finished product with the deck stainer. This will help ensure that you're both on the same page and that the job is done to your satisfaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common mistakes people make when staining their wood decks are applying the stain unevenly, not allowing enough time for the stain to dry, and using the wrong type of deck cleaner.
To avoid these mistakes, be sure to apply the stain evenly, allow enough time for the wet stain to dry completely, and use the right type of deck cleaner during the staining process.
By following these tips, you can be sure that your deck staining project will go smoothly and that you’ll be happy with the results.
The frequency with which you need to stain your deck depends on the type of wood, the weather conditions, and the amount of traffic the deck receives. In general, however, it’s a good idea to stain your deck every 2-3 years.
When choosing a deck stain, be sure to select a product that is specifically designed for deck use. These products will provide the best protection for your deck and will ensure that it looks its best for years to come.
You can find more information on deck staining by doing a Google search for “deck staining tips.” This will give you a variety of resources, including articles, videos, and how-to guides.
To get started with deck staining, you’ll need to gather the necessary materials and equipment. Be sure to read the instructions that come with the deck stain carefully, as this will ensure that you get the best results. Once you have everything you need, you can begin staining your deck!
Closing Thoughts
So, now you know a little more about deck staining and why it’s important. If you decide to take on the project yourself, be sure to read up on the best techniques and products to use.
You can find lots of information online, or get in touch with us for advice. We would be happy to help!
But if you don’t feel confident about tackling the job yourself, that’s no problem either.
Give us a call at (865) 801-4545 and we can connect you with one of our experienced professionals from Riverview Decks. We’re a dedicated team of deck builders and we offer professional deck building and deck repair services for homeowners in Knoxville, TN.
