Semi-Transparent allows the wood grain to show through while noticeably adding the desired color. It will last 2 to 3 years between applications. Semi-Opaque or semi-solid hides most of the wood grain beneath the rich pigment. It should be repainted every 3 to 4 years. Solid Stains (Opaque) has the richest color and hides the grain the most.
Expect to pay between but that could be higher or lower depending on the complexity of the job and the materials required. And if you’d rather pressure wash your own deck, a good pressure washer will set you back about , although you can spend as little as for a small electric oneor as much as for a commercial-grade one.
Hopefully, you have a better understanding of deck sealing vs. staining, what they do, and what will protect your deck better. If you found this article of value, please share it with others. Your comments and suggestions are always appreciated. Eugene has been a DIY enthusiast for most of his life and loves being creative while inspiring creativity in others.
Although stain doesn’t cover the wood in the same way that paint does, deck stain acts as a barrier between moisture and wood. Water-soaked wood can begin growing mold or mildew, and may also expand and grow soft, causing you to have to replace planks and repair the deck. Many people fall victim to the false notion that sealing a deck with deck sealant will solve all potential wood issues, but cracking is one thing that sealants alone won’t help or prevent.
Wood that absorbs water will absorb stain or sealer for a better bond. Sealing helps to maintain the color and smooth surface of the wood. The longer you wait, the more faded the wood will become, and the more ‘furry’ the board surface. New decks constructed of pressure-treated or SPF timber should be stained or sealed as soon as the water stops beading.
Your deck should undergo a general inspection annually, especially if it is over 10 years old. While the condition of your deck boards is paramount to staining, it’s vital also to check that all of your deck’s connectors, fasteners, and joints are in good condition. Hire a contractor to fix them if any of these structures are in disrepair.
Depending on the frequency of use and weather conditions you might have to reapply yearly. A semi-transparent deck stain will give your home’s exterior a modern, creative touch. You can still see the wood grain and enjoy its beautiful appearance without losing any of that traditional appeal. The clear sealer is a thin layer that just covers the wood.
However, grilling on the deck may not be the safest idea. The paints or stains that you use on your deck could be flammable. Even if your deck doesn’t have paint or stain, the wood could ignite if flames touch the dry surfaces. It generally isn’t recommended to grill on your deck.
Not only does it help remove dirt and mildew, but also helps restore wood back to its natural color. One of the most labor-intensive steps in maintaining a deck is cleaning it. Pressure washing not only gets rid of that nightmare of a mess you know awaits, but also allows for quick and easy removal of stains.
However, wood that is sealed will still fade over time but will continue to show the natural wood grain. Adding a sealer over a stain isn’t advisable. The stain will protect the wood the same as the sealer. However, since the stain has already sealed the wood grain, the sealer won’t penetrate, or penetrate well, and will peel and flake.
A sealer will have the least impact, preserving the natural look of the wood in your deck, making it ideal for projects where you’re using a fresh milled high quality wood. It simply serves as a clear coat that helps the wood repel water and everyday stains and spills. This allows the wood to resist mildew growth and rot, keeping it’s fine appearance.
Alright, you’ve completed this project and you’re in luck. A properly stained deck required very little maintenance. As you would with other outdoor surfaces around the house, keep your deck free of dirt and debris. A full wash won’t hurt either. In short, if you properly care for a well-stained deck, you’ll enjoy 3-5 years of beautiful protection.
The thicker the color, the more UV protection it provides. Staining also makes the wood grain less visible, which is ideal for protecting spruce, pine, fir, plywood, OSB decks, fences, and other surfaces. Untreated and pressure-treated wood that is exposed to the elements will dry out, crack, split, twist, and discolor.
Decks are a place of gathering outside where we grill, eat, drink, and enjoy the comforts of friends and family. However, to get the most out of your wood deck, you need to properly maintain it. Part of that maintenance includes re-staining the deck every few years. Staining is important maintenance for a few reasons.
Sand the floor of the deck to 80-grit and the handrails with 100- or 120-grit sandpaper. When you’re done sanding, hose the deck off again to get rid of all the dust. Let it dry for another 24 hours. Credit: Reviewed / Jesse Flores / Wagner Paint can get farther and messier with a paint sprayer.
Enhance and protect your outdoor design by learning how to stain a deck with these simple steps using deck stain.
Staining your wood deck is a great way to ensure it looks its best and lasts for a long time. You can expect to pay between to stain your deck, or an average of. But, obviously, the size of the deck plays a role in determining the cost of staining.
Now allow your deck to completely dry before you apply any protective coatings. 24 hours would be a safe bet. Once the boards are dry, make sure you apply the coating with a Deck, Brush applicator, not a roller or lambswool applicator. And don’t forget to use the brush on, Brush off Technique You should only need one coat of stain for a recoat, or 2 to 3 coats if you had to strip your deck back and start again.
If you’re hoping to avoid painful blisters and scrapes on your feet when walking across the deck, it is important that the wood grain be sanded. Especially if the act of cleaning it caused the wood to raise. An electric sander is definitely recommended. Start with a course grit paper for the first pass.
