How to Finish Cedar Decking

Finish cedar decking as soon as the lumber is dry to preserve its natural beauty.

Cedar is a popular choice for decking because it is naturally weather- and rot-resistant, easy to finish and pitch- and resin-free. Cedar decking should be finished as soon as the new deck is dry, rather than waiting six months or so as some finish manufacturer's recommend. This ensures the cedar is protected from the get-go and will last for years.

Things You'll Need

• Metal paint scraper
• Hammer or screwdriver
• Belt sander
• Broom or vacuum
• Semi-transparent stain
• Long-handled paintbrush or roller
• Old rags (optional)

Instructions

1. Run a metal paint scraper along the length of the decking to catch any nails or screws with heads above the plane of the deck. Hammer in or screw down any nails that could become snags.

2. Sand the deck with a belt sander, working in the direction of the decking rather than across the decking planks. Don't use an orbital sander, as this can scratch the fine-grained cedar and show ugly marks through the stain.

3. Vacuum or sweep up the sanding dust from the deck.

4. Apply a semi-transparent stain to the decking, using a long-handled paintbrush or roller. Follow the stain manufacturer's instructions for the appropriate number of coats and absorption time between coats. Use old rags to rub the stain into the decking, if necessary, or to wipe off excess stain.

Tips & Warnings

• Transparent water-repellent preservatives can substitute if a colorless finish is desired.

• Avoid paints or film-forming finishes on cedar, as they not only cover up the natural beauty of the lumber, but can blister and buckle in inclement weather, ultimately requiring more maintenance.

References

• "Western Red Cedar Lumber Association"; Finishing Western Red Cedar Decks; William C. Feist
• Western Red Cedar Export Association: Finishing Cedar Decking