An outdoor deck is a great way to add additional living space to a home; However, decks require special treatment simply because they are exposed to the elements on a regular basis. Rain, sunlight (UV rays in particular), spills from food and drink and general wear and tear can age a deck much faster than it need be. Staining that deck every few years will help to keep it looking like new for as long as you have it.
1 – The Stain
You have many options to choose from when looking for the right stain for your deck. Basically, a stain that is opaque will fight weather and wear more effectively. Lighter stains will emphasize wood grain for a stunning look. To enhance the natural colour of the wood, choose clear or wood-toned stains. Semi-transparent stains permit grain to be shown and can change the tone of the wood. Solid or semi-solid stains will cover the grain but will allow vibrant colours to set the tone of your deck space.
2 – Preparing The Surface
Sweep the surface of the deck clean, wash it with a water hose where needed and allow to dry completely. Sand any and all peeling stain and sweep clean again. Before you begin staining your deck, do not work in direct sunlight as the stain will dry unevenly. The best temperatures to stain are between 10 and 32-degrees Celsius. You also need several warm days to follow staining to ensure a complete and even drying time.
3 – Tape Off Surfaces
Any surfaces you do not want to get stain on should be taped off with painter’s tape, also, use drop cloths on other items that you cannot remove. When applying the stain, use a natural bristle brush. You could use a roller – which will be far quicker in the long run – but brushing allows you to force the stain into open pores and grain in the wooden boards.
4 – Cover A Lot Of Space
While staining your deck, it is a good idea to work stain into the butt joints that form when two boards meet. It is also effective to stain more than one board at a time. If you can stain several at once you can avoid splotches from forming when stain spills over to adjacent boards. Regardless of how meticulous you are, you are going to find that you will need to do random touch ups and that is fine. Refinishing will help you complete the look you were after in the first place.
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