If you have a deck, it is of utmost importance to take care of it. It needs to be prepared to withstand the harsh natural elements – including rain, snow, sun, and wind – that can damage it. Staining your deck is a great way to renew its appearance and leave it in good condition for the long run.
When to Stain Your Deck
When your deck is peeling, bubbling, or flaking, that indicates it needs to be stained. Unlike walls, it is not recommended to use paint on decks. Regardless of the kind of wood you have, paint will cause it to shrink and expand at different rates. The paint on the wood will also peel off more easily than a stain, especially when it is being exposed to the elements on a constant basis, making it a poor deck finish. However, if your deck has already been painted, you should do maintenance on a yearly basis. This includes lightly sanding the surface and applying a fresh coat of paint to any area that is peeling. A deck should be stained every two to three years in terms of how often it should be done. That way, it will look great, and extend the life of the wood.
It is difficult to have a uniform colour on your entire deck, especially if all the wood has not been stained at the same time. If the stain is wearing off in certain areas, the entire deck should be redone. But for those who are not bothered by it can stain only the horizontal surfaces that experience the most wear and tear. An oil-based stain is the best option, because it is able to penetrate the wood while repelling water.
The Weather
You should stain your deck either in the spring or the fall. If you stain it in the summer, you have to do it away from direct sunlight. Otherwise, it will cause the stain to dry quickly, resulting in premature stain failure. In the summer, stain your deck in the morning or evening when the deck is not too hot and there is no chance of rain.
How to Test the Wood to See if it Needs Staining Yet
You can test your wood by sprinkling water on your deck. If it immediately becomes absorbed, that is a sign that the wood is ready for staining. On the other hand, if it beads up, it does not need to be stained yet – unless you want to take the extra measure in improving its appearance.
After checking to see if your deck needs to be stained, you can either turn it into a DIY project or contact a professional deck maintenance and staining service for further assistance. If you are looking for professional and reputable deck builders in the Brampton, Milton, Mississauga, Vaughan or Brampton areas, TorOnCa can help!