Deck staining is something most do-it-yourselfers can handle, but there are a few tricks to the trade that will make the process much simpler. Before you tackle this project, learn what the pros would tell you if they could.
Are you considering tackling a deck staining project? This is something you can easily do yourself,
if you have the time and right materials, but there are a few things you should know before you do in order to do the job right.
First, take your time. This is a multi-step task, and it could be tempting to do one or two of the steps quickly just to get it done faster. Make sure that you do not give into this temptation. When decks are built using pressure treated lumber, it is best to give them a few months to weather and dry before you start to stain. This ensures that the stain will adhere properly. Similarly, you need to give each layer enough time to dry and cure before you move to the next one.
Next, make sure that you properly prepare the wood before you start to stain. Clean it, no matter how new it is. Choose a sodium precarbonate wood cleaner to do this, and you will not harm the plants around your decking while still getting the wood very clean. If your deck has old stain, make sure you use a stain stripper, but follow the package directions carefully.
Once everything is clean, deck staining pros will tell you that you should use a brightener, but many do-it-yourselfers will skip this. Brighteners will help neutralize the cleaners and help the stain to adhere to the wood. Simply spray, wait, and rinse. This is such an easy step, there is no benefit in skipping it.
When you buy your stain, buy the good stuff. The cheap stuff is cheap for a reason and will not last. It might look good for a year or two, but if you are going for longevity, buy the more expensive option. Water based stains are an excellent choice, as they are both durable and environmentally friendly.
Once you have your stain, read the directions and follow them perfectly. Many deck staining projects are ruined because the homeowner thought he knew how to do the process and didn’t read the directions. Read the label before you even open the can, and make sure you understand exactly what you need to do. Following the label instructions is particularly important when it comes to learning how much stain to apply. Too much will cause the finished product to peel and crack.
No matter how you apply the stain, you need to go over it with a paintbrush. This causes more of the stain to be absorbed by the wood. Brush the stain while it is still wet to ensure proper penetration.
Once you have finished the deck staining process, wait a little while before you add your furniture back onto the decking surface or use it. The stain needs at least 24 hours, often more, to cure before you subject it to use. If you skip this important step, you will be re-staining in the near future, and you may end up with some unwanted stain on your furniture or feet.
