How To Stain My Deck
Do you want to give your backyard barbeque setting a makeover? Or is your deck old and in need of some upkeep? A new layer of deck stain can be the perfect way to update your backyard. However, figuring out how to stain a deck can feel like a huge project. It can be easy to get overwhelmed with questions like "How should I stain my deck?" and "What are the right stains and other products to use?" These five steps will teach you how to master the proper technique and learn how to stain a wood deck successfully.
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How To Stain My Deck
How To Stain My Deck: Step 1 - Look Over Your Deck
How To Stain My Deck
The first step to a good, smooth stain job when learning how to stain a wood deck is to make sure there are no hazards or imperfections on the deck itself. Chipped wood, loose screws or bolts, and areas of wear and tear will not be able to be covered up by stain. The first step to a good deck stain is a good foundation, so make sure the loose screws are gone and the broken pieces of wood are repaired before continuing.
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How To Stain My Deck
How To Stain My Deck: Step 2 - Give it a Thorough Clean
How To Stain My Deck
Wood stain won't hold as tightly to a dirty deck. Your deck experiences a lot of foot traffic and can get exceedingly dirty with mud, dirt, and grime. In order for the deck stain to set properly, you should wash your deck with a quality deck cleaner and scrub it with a durable brush. Remove the furniture when you do this to make sure every area is clean. Once it's been scrubbed, power wash the deck or use a hose to rid it of grime. Make sure your deck is completely dry before you start to stain it.
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How To Stain My Deck
How To Stain My Deck: Step 3 - Apply Your Stain of Choice
How To Stain My Deck
Once the deck has dried, tape off any areas you don't want the stain to be. Also, take care to protect your garden or lawn from possible accidental staining. Before you apply your stain to the entire deck, make sure you test a small area and let it dry to be sure the stain the correct color and shade that you want. Use a long rolling brush to apply the stain, as this will allow you to create the smoothest application. Back brushing over an area a second time will help the stain set better and create long-lasting protection for the surface of your deck. Correct errors as you go with the roller brush so that they don't end up set into the wood.
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How To Stain My Deck
How To Stain My Deck: Step 4 - Wait for Your Stain to Dry
How To Stain My Deck
Give your deck ample time to dry before walking on it. Follow the directions on your individual stain, though most wood stains will be dry in 24 to 48 hours. Also note the temperature in your location, as this will affect how quickly the deck can dry. Humidity in an area is also a factor.
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How To Stain My Deck
How To Stain My Deck: Step 5 - Enjoy!
How To Stain My Deck
Once your new stain is dry, move all of your deck furniture back into its place. Redecorate and rearrange until you're happy with the space. Then, celebrate with a backyard party or a relaxing morning on the deck with some coffee.
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How To Stain My Deck
How To Stain My Deck: Adding Protection and Value
How To Stain My Deck
Learning how to stain a deck is well worth the effort. A new layer of stain on your deck adds protection to the wood, making your deck look better and last longer. Additionally, staining your wooden deck properly adds value to your home. Use these tips for your next deck-staining project and be amazed at the difference it makes!
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