Deck Stain

The key to maintaining a natural-looking deck season after season, is staining your deck regularly. Staining your deck seals the pores in the wood, which prevents it from taking water, protects it from the sun’s damaging UV rays and prevents discoloration. At Anderson Lumber, we have everything you need to stain your deck with confidence.

The Ideal Time of Year to Stain Your Deck

When staining your deck, you want to choose a day when the weather is relatively warm and dry. We recommend staining your deck in April and May, preferably on a day when there is no rain expected two days before or after treatment. 

Choosing the Right Stain

There are a variety of stains that you can buy for your deck, each with varying grades of protection and color selection:

• Transparent Stains – Allows the natural color of the untreated wood to show while protecting it from moisture but doesn’t provide the same level of UV protection as other stains. Typically provides the least amount of protection and requires a yearly application.
• Semi-Transparent Stains – Provides moisture protection with a light tint of color. Allows for easier absorption and lasts longer over time.
• Solid Stains – Provides the most protection and helps address discoloration of the wood. 

While the protection of the stain will vary depending on the type you use, we recommend routinely inspecting and treating your deck every one to two years to ensure it stays in good condition.

At Anderson Lumber, we carry a wide selection of stains from Ready Seal in a variety of finishes that provide your deck superior protection and style.

Preparing Your Deck

To have your stain absorbed into your deck and provide the most protection possible, it’s important to prepare your deck before applying the stain. Start by removing any outdoor furniture, plants, and anything else on your deck and begin cleaning the dust and debris. If your deck has a lot of dirt and grime, you may need to use a hose or pressure washer to properly clean your deck.

Once the surface is clean, you should inspect your deck for damage. Replace any broken or rotted boards and address any rough spots and splinters.

Once the deck is clean and in good condition, you can confirm if your deck will properly absorb the stain by putting a small amount of water on your wood. If you see bubbles on your deck, that means the wood has retained moisture and needs more time to dry out. 

Applying the Stain

Once your deck is completely dry, you’re ready to start staining your deck. Using a brush, roller, or sprayer (the applicator will depend on the type of stain that you choose) begin applying an even coat in small sections of your deck. You may need to apply a second coat depending on the type of stain that you use. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying time and recoating. 

To maintain a quality-looking deck that lasts for years, staining your deck is a must. Trust the pros at Anderson Lumber to provide you with the tools and knowledge you need to maintain a quality deck.