How to Stain a Deck: Deck Stain Step-by-Step Guide & Ideas from Experts

How to Stain a Deck: Deck Stain Step-by-Step Guide & Ideas from Experts

A natural wood deck is a beautiful addition to any home. It’s a place to gather outdoors with friends and family, a place to unwind after a long day, and a place to celebrate life’s milestones. But as the years pass, if your wood deck has been neglected, it will start to show signs of wear and tear.

Wood, being a natural material, has a shelf life, and even if you’ve used pressure-treated lumber to build your deck, it still needs yearly upkeep. This upkeep comes in the form of staining your deck. So, if you’ve ever wondered how to stain a deck, you’ve come to the right place! At Olympic Decks, we have the answer to your question!

After years of working with every type of decking material, we know exactly what you, as a homeowner, need to know to find the best deck stain and apply the best deck staining techniques to keep your natural wood deck looking like new—no matter how old it may be!

How to Choose the Right Deck Stain

When it comes to deck staining tips, the first thing you need to know is the different types of deck stains available on the market. The choice of stain can influence the appearance and longevity of your wood deck. Here are the types of deck stains:

Clear Deck Sealers:

Pros: Offers water protection and some degree of UV resistance.

Cons: Does not prevent underlying wood color from graying over time.

Best For: Decks in shaded areas where sun damage is less of a concern.

Semi-Transparent Stains:

Pros: Shows some wood grain, provides medium UV protection, and requires low maintenance.

Cons: Less protective against weathering than more opaque options.

Best For: Those who prefer a balance between natural wood aesthetics and protective features.

Semi-Solid Stains

Pros: Richer color while still showing some wood grain.

Cons: May require scraping and more intensive maintenance when reapplying.

Best For: Decks that need moderate protection but with more visible color.

Solid Stains:

Pros: Excellent coverage, hides imperfections, and resembles paint in appearance.

Cons: Requires significant maintenance, including scraping, before reapplication.

Best For: Older decks that need a comprehensive refresh and are not focused on showcasing wood grain.

4 Tips for Choosing the Best Deck Stain

Now you know more about the types of deck stains available to you, you need to select the best deck stain for your particular deck. Here are 4 things to consider before purchasing a deck stain:

1. Durability: Consider how long the stain is expected to last. Semi-transparent stains generally need reapplication every 5 years, whereas more robust treatments like solid stains may offer longer protection but at the cost of more intensive maintenance.
2. Application: Always prepare the deck properly before applying any stain or sealant. This may include cleaning, sanding, and repairing any damaged areas to ensure the best results.
3. Climate Suitability: Choose a stain that matches your local climate conditions. For example, decks in very sunny areas may benefit from stains with enhanced UV protection.
4. Personal Preference: Ultimately, the choice of stain will depend on your aesthetic preference and how much maintenance you are willing to undertake.

Prep Your Deck for Staining

Once you’ve selected your deck stain, you need to prepare your deck before staining. A mistake homeowners make is thinking that because their deck doesn’t look dirty, it’s ready to be stained. Never stain a deck without first cleaning your deck. Even a well-kept deck has dust and debris that needs to be cleaned away before any stain is applied.

• Remove debris by sweeping
• Use a deck cleaner to remove mold, mildew, or stains
• Repair any loose boards or protruding nails
• Sand any rough spots
• Rinse and dry the deck with water
• Allow the deck to dry before staining

How to Stain a Deck: Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you’ve bought the stain and prepped your deck, you can finally start staining it! Here are Olympic Decks step-by-step instructions for staining a wooden deck:

Step 1: Shake the Stain. Before opening your stain, give it a good shake to mix any settled solids back into the liquid. This ensures a more consistent color and better application. If the can isn’t rusty, you can also have it shaken at the store. For immediate use, shaking by hand just before application is effective. (For clear stains or sealers, avoid shaking to prevent air bubbles. Instead, stir them gently but thoroughly to ensure the ingredients are well mixed without creating bubbles).

Step 2: Apply Evenly. Use a brush, roller, or sprayer to apply the stain evenly across the deck. Work in sections and maintain a wet edge to avoid lap marks and ensure a uniform finish.

Step 3: Follow the Grain. When using a brush or roller, apply the stain in the direction of the wood grain. This technique helps improve absorption and gives a more natural finish.

Step 4: Allow Proper Drying Time. Refer to the stain manufacturer’s instructions for drying times. To prevent smudges and uneven coloring, avoid walking on or replacing furniture on the deck until the stain has completely dried.

Step 5. Apply Multiple Coats. Depending on the stain’s opacity and the condition of your wood, you may need to apply multiple coats. Wait for the first coat to dry completely before applying the next to achieve deeper color and better protection.

By following these deck staining tips, you can achieve a professional-quality stain on your deck that enhances its appearance and protects it from the elements.

FAQs on Deck Staining from Olympic Decks

How do I know what deck stain color to choose for my deck?

Consider the color of your home’s exterior and surrounding landscape. Choose a stain that complements these elements. Test the stain on a small, inconspicuous area of the deck to see how it looks when dry.

Should I use a roller or brush to stain my deck?

Use a brush for better control and to ensure the stain penetrates deeply into the wood grain. A roller can be faster for applying stain on flat areas, but a brush is essential for detailed work and edges.

How long should I wait to use the space after staining a wooden deck?

Wait at least 24 to 48 hours before using the deck. Check the stain manufacturer’s recommendations, as drying times can vary based on weather conditions and stain type.

How often should I restrain my deck? 

Generally, your deck should be re-staining every 2 to 5 years. The frequency depends on the deck’s exposure to sun and rain, the type of stain used, and the condition of the wood.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when staining a wooden deck? 

Avoid staining in direct sunlight or on overly hot days, which can cause the stain to dry too quickly. Don’t apply too much stain, as it can peel or flake. Ensure the deck is clean and completely dry before starting.

When should I contact a professional about staining my deck?

Contact a professional if your deck requires extensive repairs, if you are unsure about the type of stain to use, or if you want to ensure the highest quality finish. Professionals like Olympic Decks can provide expertise and ensure that the job is done right.

Get the Best Deck Staining Tips from Olympic Decks

As deck experts, Olympic Decks is committed to helping homeowners in the Seattle area beautify their decks. Staining your deck is an important part of its upkeep and is vital for protecting the wood from the elements. So whether you are a first-timer or looking to improve your deck maintenance routine, Olympic Decks is here to help with all things deck-related!

If you’re ready to rejuvenate your deck, contact Olympic Decks for expert advice. Let us help you keep it looking its best!