How to Apply Deck Stain

Staining your deck will give it longer life and make it look great. This is a time-consuming project, but it only has to be done every other year if done properly. Check the weather for the day you plan to stain and make sure it's not going to rain. You should not apply the stain to wet, cold or hot wood. There are many methods to applying the stain, but brushing it on is the most common, giving the best results with the least amount of mess.

Things You'll Need

• Stain
• Paint brushes
• Rags

Instructions

Apply Deck Stain

1. Make sure your deck is clean and free of all debris before you start staining. Test your stain on a scrap piece of wood to make sure it is the color you want. Check the temperature, as deck stain should only be applied between the temperatures of 40 to 90 degrees, which includes the deck temperature, not just the air.

2. Start staining high areas and work your way down. Use a natural bristle brush for oil-based stains and a nylon brush for water-bases stains. Brush the stain onto railings, lattice work and pickets first. Apply liberally, but don't leave any puddles. If you get it on too thick, just brush it out. Stay with a wet edge. Don't let the stain dry out and then go back to it or you will leave overlap marks on the wood.

3. Stain any benches or wooden flower boxes that you have on the deck. Apply the stain in the same manner. If stain drips or runs, wipe with the rag or begin to stain that area before the drip sets. If it runs onto the floor of the deck, try to wipe it up.

4. Stain the floor of the deck, beginning at the house and working toward the steps. Leave a little space next to the house and then back-brush it into that area. It's much easier to create little pools of stain on the floor, so watch for them and brush out as soon as you can. If the pools are allowed to dry, they will peel up later and look bad.

5. Stain the steps on your way off the deck. Check with the manufacturer's directions for the amount of coats to use. It's better to have one good coat than two thin ones. However, if it's a clear or very thin stain you will probably need two coats. This staining should last for two years depending on the age of the wood and the temperature in which it was stained.

Tips & Warnings

• Stain two boards at a time or a section that is easy for you to handle. This way you won't create any overlap marks on your deck. Brush with the grain of the wood for the best look.

• Don't stain in excessive heat or in direct sunlight. The stains are flammable and will not penetrate hot wood.

Resources

• Deck Stains and Cleaning Products