When are you supposed to be re-finishing your wooden deck? You can expect to need to restain every two to five years. The biggest sign that you should break out your can of stain is when you notice that the wood is absorbing moisture rather than repelling.
There are a few steps you will need to take before you get down to actually restaining your deck. If you skip these essential steps, your deck will not only not look it’s best, but the stain will most likely fail. This means your wood deck will continue to be exposed to the elements.
- Remove everything from your deck
This is the easiest step you will take on your deck re-staining journey. Get all your outdoor furniture, planters, canopies, and anything else that sits on the surface of your deck out of the way.
- Power wash your deck
It is important to get any dirt and grime off of your deck. This way when you apply the stain, it goes on smoothly and is able to fully protect the wood.
- Replace damaged boards
Whether they are rotted or too splintered to use anymore, replacing them is essential to having a safe deck for people to be on. Do this by unscrewing the board from the deck. Then measure how long the new board is and secure it in place.
- Sand and strip your deck
You need to make sure that the wood is as smooth as possible. This includes stripping the old stain, especially if it’s peeling. By doing this step, you will ensure that your deck will stay protected for longer.
- Stain your deck
Depending on what kind of stain you buy will depend on the number of coats you will need to apply. As well as how you will be applying it. After staining, you’ll want to go back with a stain brush and make sure that all of your wood has been coated. This includes getting in between the boards, and any other nooks and crannies that your initial staining may have missed. If you didn’t get a stain with sealer in it, then you’ll have to apply that afterwards. Although, most exterior stains today are all-in-one.
If you are looking to add a deck to your home, or any other home improvement project here in Lancaster, PA, Shakespeare can help. Contact us today for a free estimate!