Cleaning up the backyard not only makes everything look good out there, it also makes the wood last longer and it will improve the real estate value of the home. There are a few steps and a few things to remember, but you can do it. Here is what you need to know to stain your deck or fence.
Get Ready
The weather does matter. It will take longer for the stain to dry in wet weather, and the wood will absorb the stain better when it has been dry for a few days. When you feel the time is right, take a good look at your deck. Inspect it for loose boards or other damage, and repair what needs to be fixed. Then clean the wood. It needs to be free of dirt so that the stain can take hold. If the wood is painted or has an older finish, or if the deck or fence is sun damaged, it may need stripping and sanding as well as cleaning.
A power wash is a good way to get everything clean, but it can cause damage as well. Use the least amount of pressure possible to get things clean and don’t hold the nozzle or the tip too close to the wood. You can rent a power washer, but if you prefer, you can wash it with a garden hose and scrub it with a brush. Whichever you choose, be sure to allow a few days to let the wet wood dry after washing.
Choose the Stain
What can a wood stain do for your wood? There are a lot of reasons to stain and a lot of types of stain. The stains both colour the wood and soak in to protect it. Some stains are water based, some are oil based, with the oil stains soaking in and protecting the wood fibres better. Be sure to check how the stain will look on your particular type of wood first. Here are the best stains to buy in 2024.
Get Started
Use a paint pad applicator for the large areas of your deck or fence and have a paintbrush for the detail work. Use long thin strokes to stain multiple boards at once and try to keep the coats thin. This prevents the stain from failing to soak into the wood. Two coats will ensure that there are no missed spots and there will be a better finish. Let it dry and enjoy the beauty of your deck in the summer!
This story was made possible by our Community Partners Program. Thank you A. Clark Roofing for helping to expand local news coverage in Alberta. Learn more.
