How to Stain Trex Decking
Trex decking is a brand of composite decking--decking made out of woods and plastic fibers. Although it isn't necessary to stain the decking in order to protect it, if you wish to enhance or change the color, you can stain it--in the same manner as solid wood decks. However, according to the TREX website, you should wait at least three to four months (12 to 16 weeks) for the decking or fade before applying paint or stain--otherwise, the staining product may not go on as well, and you may not achieve the desired color. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Soft bristled push broom
- Liquid soap/deck cleaner
- Water
- Bucket
- Sponge mop
- Garden hose
- Plastic sheeting or drop cloths
- Rubber gloves
- Wooden stirrer
- Wood deck stain (the kind requiring no primer)
- Paint brushes
- Long-handled paint roller
Instructions
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How to Stain Trex Decking
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1
Remove everything, including furniture and flower pots from the deck. Cover nearby plants and grass with plastic sheeting to protect them in case of stain splatters.
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2
Brush the deck with a push broom. Remove all loose soil, leaves and other debris. Mix liquid soap (Simple Green or dish detergent will do) and warm water in a bucket. Mop the deck clean of any remaining soil and let it dry. Rinse the soapy residue off completely with a garden hose.
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3
Put on protective rubber gloves. Open and stir the deck stain with a wooden stirrer. Dip a clean paint brush into the stain and apply the stain to the railings.
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4
Stir the stain again and pour some into a paint pan. Cover the roller of a long-handled paint roller in the stain. Apply it immediately to a deck section--approximately four foot square--and work it into the decking with the roller. Dip the roller back into the stain and move to the next four foot section
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5
Repeat the process if the stain does not look as dark as you desire. When complete, allow the stain to dry fully before putting furniture or plant pots back onto the deck.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Wooden rulers work well to stir the stain. For best results, choose a mild day for staining the deck--the stain should have plenty of time to dry before it is rained on. You don't have to do this all in one day. You can do the railings and steps, for example, one day and the floor of the deck the next.
Do not sand Trex decking prior to painting or staining--this decking is not intended to be sanded.
