Staining your deck can transform an old, weathered deck into a beautiful new outdoor living space. While it may seem daunting, with the right materials and a bit of elbow grease, you can stain your deck by yourself. This easy guide covers everything you need to know to stain your deck like a pro.
Planning Your Deck Staining Project
Staining a deck is a big project, so proper planning is key. Here are some tips to prepare for staining your deck by yourself:
Choose the Right Time of Year
The best time to stain a deck is in spring or fall when temperatures are moderate. Avoid staining in direct sunlight or extreme heat which can cause the stain to dry too quickly. Staining in cooler weather allows for better absorption.
Clear Your Schedule
Set aside enough time to properly clean and stain the entire deck. Rushing can lead to a streaky, uneven finish. Expect staining to take at least 2-3 full days depending on the deck size.
Purchase All Materials Upfront
Buy everything you’ll need including stain, brushes, rags, cleaners, and safety gear. This prevents having to stop mid-project due to missing supplies.
Cover Nearby Plants & Structures
Protect plants, patios, siding, windows, etc near the deck using tarps or plastic sheeting. Stain overspray can permanently damage surfaces.
Check Weather Forecast
Don’t stain if rain or extreme heat is expected. Stain requires 24-48 hours of dry weather to cure properly. Monitor the forecast to pick ideal staining days.
Choosing the Best Deck Stain
With so many deck stain options on the market, selecting the right product is essential for long-lasting results. Consider these factors when choosing stain:
Oil-based vs. Water-based
- Oil-based stains penetrate wood deeper for longer protection. Water-based are easier to apply but wear faster.
- Oil-based emit strong fumes so ventilation is a must. Water-based are low odor.
Transparent, Semi-transparent or Solid Color
- Transparent shows the most natural wood grain while solid hides it completely. Semi-transparent is in between.
- Transparent needs more frequent reapplication than solid stain.
Purpose of Your Deck
- If used frequently underfoot, choose a more durable solid or semi-transparent stain. For decorative appeal, transparent works well.
Wood Type
- Some oil-based stains can discolor soft woods. Check if a stain is recommended for your deck wood.
Brand Reputation & Reviews
- Stick with top brands like Behr, Cabot, Olympic, etc. Check reviews to ensure a stain holds up over time.
Cost
- Higher quality stains often cost more but also last longer per application. Consider lifecycle cost, not just initial price.
Color
- Test stain colors on a hidden spot first. Favor neutral wood tones over intense ones which can look unnatural over time.
Necessary Supplies for Staining a Deck
Gather these supplies before starting your staining project:
- Deck Stain – Have at least 2 gallons for an average sized deck.
- Stain Brushes – Angled sash brushes allow controlled application on deck boards.
- Paint Roller & Handle – For quickly covering large open areas of the deck. Select a thick nap roller.
- Paint Tray – To hold stain for rolling. Disposable plastic trays work well.
- Paint Rags – Cotton rags apply stain smoothly. Have plenty for wiping excess.
- Stiff Scrub Brush – For heavy duty cleaning of badly weathered areas.
- Garden Hose & Nozzle – For power washing and rinsing debris. Adjust nozzle to fan spray.
- Bucket & Broom – Fill bucket with water and use broom to scrub deck.
- Eye Protection – Safety glasses protect eyes from debris when cleaning.
- Knee Pads – Cushion knees when kneeling to stain deck boards.
- Drop Cloths – Protect surfaces from stain drips and spills.
Having all materials ready ahead of time ensures efficient staining from start to finish.
Cleaning and Prepping an Old Deck for Stain
Thoroughly cleaning the deck is the most important step before staining. Follow these tips:
Sweep Away Debris
Use a broom to clear dirt, leaves, and other debris from between deck boards and rails. Hose off with water.
Remove Furniture & Decor
Clear space to stain by taking away patio furniture, planters, rugs, etc. Store items off the deck.
Power Wash
Set the nozzle to a wide fan spray and power wash at a high pressure. Target weathered gray areas and inspect for remaining dirt.
Scrub With a Stiff Brush
Scrub extremely dirty spots using a stiff brush and bucket of water mixed with a small amount of deck cleaner.
Rinse Thoroughly
Power wash the deck again to rinse away all cleaner residue which can interfere with stain absorption.
Allow to Dry Completely
Give the deck 1-2 full days to dry out before applying stain. The wood should have less than 15% moisture content.
Make Minor Repairs
Replace cracked boards, loose nails/screws, warped planks, etc. for optimal stain penetration.
A clean, dry deck allows new stain to adhere and penetrate properly for long-lasting protection.
How to Apply Deck Stain Like a Professional
Follow these simple steps for staining your deck perfectly every time:
Read Manufacturer Directions
Follow all label instructions including recommended application temperature, dry time, number of coats, and tools.
Use Painters Tape
Apply tape along the edges of siding, railings, walls and trim to keep stain neatly contained.
Stir Stain Thoroughly
Mix the stain to achieve uniform color and consistency throughout the can before starting.
Saturate Brush Well
Dip brush into the stain, covering the bristles fully. Tap brush against side of can to remove excess.
Apply Stain With the Grain
Brush on stain following the wood grain for even coverage. Maintain a wet edge and avoid overlapping.
Spread Stain With Roller
Once deck boards are coated, use the roller to quickly cover large open areas of the deck.
Maintain Consistent Coverage
Apply the stain at a consistent thickness over the entire deck. Avoid heavy buildup in spots.
Work Methodically Board to Board
Stain a few boards at a time working in a systematic pattern from one end of the deck to the other.
Wipe Up Excess Stain
Use a dry rag to gently wipe up puddles and excess stain before it dries to avoid tackiness.
Allow Proper Dry Time
Let the deck dry thoroughly between coats according to manufacturer guidelines for full curing.
Carefully following these application tips will result in a perfectly stained deck with minimal mess, splatters, or streaks.
Tips for Avoiding Common Deck Staining Mistakes
Staining a deck for the first time can seem tricky. Avoid these common mistakes:
Rushing the Job
Allot enough time so you don’t need to hurry. Rushing leads to sloppy brush strokes and uneven coverage.
Applying in Direct Sun
Heat causes the stain to dry too fast preventing proper absorption. Stain early or late in the day.
Not Prepping Properly
A dirty or damp deck will cause streaking when stain is applied. Always prep thoroughly.
Choosing the Wrong Stain
Be sure your chosen stain matches your wood type and traffic level to get the best protection.
Not Maintaining a Wet Edge
Work systematically and maintain a wet edge as you go to prevent lap marks at overlaps.
Over-brushing
Excessive brushing can create bubbling. Apply stain using smooth, even strokes instead.
Not Allowing Proper Cure Time
Rushing lead coats or walking on the deck too soon can smudge and ruin the finish.
Applying Too Thin
Multiple thin coats are not as effective as fewer properly saturated coats.
Avoiding these missteps will lead to stunning staining results on your first try!
Easy Cleanup After Staining Your Deck
Finish your staining project by properly cleaning up with these tips:
Collect Drop Cloths
Carefully gather any drop cloths, gently folding inward to contain stray drips. Dispose of properly.
Clean Tools
Use mineral spirits to thoroughly clean brushes and rollers. Allow them to fully dry before storing.
Seal & Store Leftover Stain
Pour remaining stain from paint tray back into can. Seal the can well for safe storage and future use.
Remove Tape
Once stain is fully dry, gently remove all painters tape from deck edges and surfaces.
Check for Spills or Splatter
Inspect siding, railings, windows etc and wipe up any drips or overspray.
Rinse Off Deck & Surrounding Areas
Use a hose to wash away any stray stain splatter on patio surfaces.
Reinstall Furniture
Arrange patio furniture back in place on your newly stained deck.
Taking time to properly clean up will leave your outdoor space looking fresh rather than splattered with paint.
Maintaining and Reapplying Deck Stain Over Time
Regular deck maintenance is crucial to extending the life and look of your deck stain. Here are some tips:
Inspect Annually
Check your deck each year for signs of wear, damage, peeling, etc. Address issues quickly.
Reseal as Needed
Reapply stain on high traffic areas as needed to maintain protection.
Clean Regularly
Sweep debris from the deck often and scrub periodically with a deck cleaner.
Remove Furniture in Winter
Take away temporary furniture each winter to prevent rust stains on the deck.
Re-stain Every 2-4 Years
Expect to do a full re-stain every 2-4 years depending on exposure and usage.
With proper care, your freshly stained deck will continue looking like new year after year.
Frequently Asked Questions About Staining a Deck
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about deck staining:
How long does deck stain last?
On average, deck stains last 2-4 years before needing to be reapplied. Factors like weather, sun exposure, and traffic impact how often reapplication is needed.
What temperature should stain be applied?
Ideally deck stain should be applied in moderate temperatures between 50-90°F. Avoid extreme heat over 90° as it causes the stain to dry too quickly.
Does wood need to be completely dry before staining?
Yes, the deck should have a moisture content under 15% before applying stain. Any residual moisture can cause bubbling and peeling issues.
How long does deck stain need to dry?
Cure times vary by product but most deck stains take 24-48 hours to fully dry and cure. Avoid foot traffic during this time.
Can deck stain be applied in direct sunlight?
It’s best to stain a deck early or late in the day out of direct sunlight. The heat can cause imperfections in the final finish.
How do you revive a weathered deck?
For severely weathered and gray wood, power washing and scrubbing with a wood brightener can help restore the natural color before staining.
What happens if it rains after staining a deck?
Unexpected rain after staining can sometimes cause a white, cloudy blotchiness in the finish. Always check weather forecasts before starting.
How many coats of stain should be applied?
For optimal protection, two coats of deck stain are recommended. For a more translucent look, one saturated coat is sufficient.
Conclusion
Staining your deck is an extremely rewarding DIY project that can completely transform your outdoor living space. Following the steps outlined in this easy guide will help you achieve stunning, professional results. With a quality deck stain, a few simple tools, and some elbow grease, you can successfully stain your deck by yourself. Just be sure to properly prepare the deck, apply the stain methodically, and perform regular maintenance to keep your deck looking perfect for years to come. Happy staining!