How to stain a new deck. Tips on how to clean and stain a new deck along with how to avoid stain lap marks.
We were advised not to stain our homes pressure treated deck as it was drying out completely.
But by the time it was fully dry, the deck was in desperate need of stain and had faded pretty badly. So we bought stain and supplies from the home improvement store and got to work.
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.
HOW TO STAIN A NEW DECK
Materials
- Paint pad applicator
- Quality stain- water or oil based
- Paint pan
- Paint brushes
- Hose or pressure washer
For this post we used BEHR Premium transparent waterproofing finish in Cedar Naturaltone
This is our own personal experience. Be sure to seek professional guidance.
CLEAN THE DECK
Remove all furniture. Using a hose or pressure washer, wash the deck. If using a pressure washer be sure to use a fan tip at no more than 600psi. Keeping the spray nozzle about 4-6 inches away from the deck. Failing to do so will result in damage to the wood.
Allow the deck two days to dry completely.
WHAT STAIN TO USE
Be sure there is no rain in the forecast two days prior to and after staining the deck. Follow stain manufacturers directions.
Water based vs Oil based stain
You can choose between water based and oil based stain- all weather protection.
Water based- Easy clean up with soap and water. May chip away in high traffic areas over time.
Oil based- Designed to fade over time.
Transparent vs Semi-Transparent
Transparent- Allows the natural pattern of the wood to show through with subtle hints of color. Designed to last up to approximately 4 years on decks.
Semi-Transparent- Allows wood grain and texture to show through. Added subtle color and enhances wood patterns. Designed to last up to approximately 6 years on decks.
Related posts:
- How to make a flower bed tree ring | On a slope
- How to makeover faded outdoor garage lights | Easy DIY
- How to re-stain an faded swing set
STAIN ONE DECK BOARD AT A TIME
Think about where you’ll be exiting the deck.
Stain from the top down. If staining the railing along with the deck, start with the railings first.
Using a paint pad applicator, stain one deck board at a time going the full length of the board. You may want to use a paint brush to get into any hard to reach areas.
Doing one section at a time instead of one deck board at a time may result in lap marks.
THINGS TO REMEMBER
Allow pressure treated wood to fully dry out, waiting approximately one year before staining. Pick two to three days where there is no rain in the forecast. Always go the length of the deck boards. If you have someone who can help, it’s useful to use a paint brush to get into any small grooves.
You also might like…
Follow me on…
Back to Home and Garden DIY
Back to Home Page
Save this project to Pinterest for later