How To Properly Stain A Wood Deck
Use the water test to check your deck every few months to ensure the sealer is still repelling water.
How to properly stain a wood deck. If you have a brand new deck made of treated lumber as opposed to cedar or redwood wait at least a few weeks before sealing it for the first time. This allows the wood to dry so the stain is absorbed. Dip paint pad into your tray and apply a solid coat of stain to the entire surface of your deck. Use a garden hose to wet down the entire deck.
If the wood absorbs it within 10 minutes plan to stain as soon as possible. Let the cleaner sit for 10 to 15 min. If you do opt for a roller go over the stain with a brush after rolling to ensure that you have a good coat. Once the surface is complete apply stain to the sides of your deck with paint pad.
Apply stain when the temps are between 50 and 90 degrees and avoid staining in direct sunlight if possible. If the water pools on the wood surface the need for exterior stain is less urgent. Regularly sweep off debris. Lightly sand the deck with a drywall sanding pad and 150 grit sanding screen.
Aim to stain in the morning or evening not during peak sun time at midday. Whether you re staining a new deck or restoring an old one sherwin williams line of superdeck deck stains cleaning and maintenance products can help you achieve professional quality results. A stained wood deck should be maintained every one to three years. Keep a distance of 8 to 12 inches from the surface and spray with the grain of the wood to avoid damage to the surface of the deck.
When staining deck boards the decking should be clean and dry. Wait 24 to 48 hours after staining for the stain to dry. Sprinkle water on the wood. In the backpack pump sprayer mix a one to one ratio of biodegradable wood cleaner to water.
Try a simple test to see if your deck repels water or needs staining. If the paint pad doesn t cover inside spaces between boards use a 1 paintbrush for proper coverage. Before scrubbing with a stiff bristle broom. Then rinse the entire deck and let it dry.
When should i stain a deck. Use a garden hose with a good stream to completely rinse the cleaner from the wood. You may also use a power washer equipped with a 45 degree tip set at 1200 1400 psi.