Staining your deck can enhance the beautiful, natural wood grain the material offers. However, implementing a stain does more than leveling up your deck’s appearance. Wood stain provides protection against the elements for a long-lasting deck.
Follow these tips to get familiar with the process:
- Sweep and clean debris – The first step in any deck staining project is to make sure that you’re starting with a blank canvas. Removing any fallen leaves, sticks, dust, and other debris will set you up for success.
- Repair any damage – Before deck staining, you’ll want to repair any visible damage, as the stain can enhance impurities. Filling holes and replacing deteriorating boards makes for a clean starting point.
- Sand – If your deck has been previously painted, stained, or has a layer of grime, sanding the whole structure before staining is crucial. The wood stain needs a clean surface to properly cling to. Stripping your deck lets it breathe, in turn allowing the stain to soak deeper into the fibers.
- Choose the stain – There are so many finishes and hues to choose from when it comes to staining. Finding the perfect one to suit the color and vibe you’re going for can be overwhelming, but consulting a professional can help to point you in the right direction.
- Wipe and seal – After applying the stain, it needs to be wiped while it’s still wet to prevent oversaturation and uneven patchiness. Sealing off the wood with a clear finish locks everything in for long-lasting results.
Taking on a DIY deck staining project can be a big job to do by yourself. Give us a call to learn more about our deck staining services.