An old and tired wood deck that’s in good shape can be brought back to life with a coat of stain. Not only will it look good, but the stain will protect the wood from harsh weather and water damage. There are many stain colours to choose from and you will need to decide between semi-transparent or solid stain. Semi-transparent allows the natural woodgrain to show through the stain while a solid stain completely covers it. To keep your deck looking it’s best and for optimum protection, stain will need to be applied every 3-5 years. Below are the steps required for staining a wood deck. If you are applying stain to a new pressure treated deck, let the decking dry for 2-4 months, then follow the same steps.
1. Preparation
Like any DIY project, preparation is key. After you remove the grill, furniture and potted plants, make necessary repairs to your deck. Replace broken screws and rotted or warped boards. Give the deck a good clean with a pressure washer on low. If your deck is very dirty, use a wood cleaner. After the deck has thoroughly dried, sand it with 60-80 grit sandpaper to remove any bits of raised grain on the wood surface. Remove the sanding dust with a broom or a leaf blower. Next, use a wood brightener to bring out the natural grain and so the wood accepts the stain better. Let the deck completely dry. Apply painter’s tape to protect areas like the siding and doorways. Read the stain manufacturer’s application instructions to find out coverage, optimum weather temperature and dry time. You’ll have to time your staining project to favourable weather conditions.
2. Railing first
Start from the top and work to the bottom. Apply stain with a brush to railings and balusters first. Use a drop cloth under railings to catch drips. You may not be able to hide the drips under the railing when you apply stain to the decking so it’s important to use a drop cloth. You can also use a paint sprayer but will have to cover nearby gardens, walls and anything under the deck. Do not spray on a windy day.
3. Stain the deck
Before you start staining the decking, plan where you want to exit. You don’t want to stain yourself into a corner. The simplest way to stain deck boards is with a paint-pad or roller attached to a pole. Apply one coat in long, even strokes. Use a paint brush for hard to reach areas and cracks in the wood. It is possible to use a paint brush to paint the entire deck and there are those that believe a brush allows the stain to soak into the wood surface better than a paint pad or roller. But be warned, the paint brush method will take a toll on your back. You can also apply stain with a paint sprayer by working in sections as far as you can reach.
4. Stairs and skirting
Finally, apply the stain to stairs and skirting, working from top to bottom. By this time you will have found the method of application that works best for you so continue with your preferred brush, paint pad, roller or sprayer.
5. Sealant
A top coat of sealant on all wood surfaces will help keep your deck looking its best longer. Read manufacturer’s application instructions for coverage, weather temperature and dry time.
6. When deck is dry
Whatever was your last coat, stain or sealant, check the manufacturer’s dry time instructions to see when it is safe to move your grill, furniture and plant pots back onto the deck.
Ready to get started? Visit your local TIMBER MART to find everything you need for your deck restoration project, from high-quality stains to expert advice. Your dream deck is just a coat of stain away!
