QA

How To Restain Your Deck

Do I need to remove old stain before restaining a deck?

Removing the old stain before reapplying a new coat isn’t always necessary. If you are applying the same color and brand to the wood, you shouldn’t have to strip the old stain. Using a quality deck cleaner should be all you have to do before reapplying the same stain.

Can you stain over deck stain?

Can I stain over a stained deck? If your deck is in good condition and you’re looking to apply a maintenance coat to keep your deck looking new, then yes… you can stain over a stained deck. It’s the same if the surface of your boards are starting to look really worn and faded. Applying more stain won’t hide the damage.

Can you apply stain over stain?

Staining over stain is easy and works beautifully if your applying a dark stain over a lighter stain on raw wood. 2. You can mix 2 or more stains together to make DIY custom stains.

How do you Restain a deck that has already been stained?

Staining a Previously Stained Deck: Step by Step Guide Step 1: Prepare the Area. Step 2: Clean Your Deck. Step 3: Removing Old Stain (if necessary) Step 4: Sanding. Step 5: Get Staining. Step 6: Apply the Finishing Touches. Step 7: Admire Your Hard Work.

Can you power wash stain off a deck?

Pressure washing is a quick way to remove a deck finish, but it requires some care so as not to damage the deck. A pressure setting of 1500 psi should be strong enough to clean away deck stain. Hold the sprayer about 3 inches off the surface and move the sprayer as you work in the same direction as the grain.

Can I Restain wood without sanding?

If the wood has been stained but not finished, DO NOT scuff or sand. Doing so will remove the color from the edges, leaving the project looking uneven.

What happens if you stain over stain?

Be advised that the color of your stain will be influenced by both the already existing stain and the new stain you apply, but this is typically going to make it darker, which is what we are trying to achieve unless the stain you are applying over the original stain is so light in pigment that it is almost clear.

How often do you need to Restain a deck?

Typically, homeowners should restain horizontal surfaces such as decks every two to three years. Poor deck upkeep will decrease the time you have to enjoy the deck before restaining it, while good deck upkeep may give you another year or two before you need to restain the deck.

Can I change the Colour of my decking?

To get the wood surface smooth again before you stain it, use a power sander to sand the planks. Select the new stain color and finish for your deck. Use a paint pad to apply the stain in wide, even strokes on the deck. Allow the first coat of stain to fully dry before you decide whether or not to apply another coat.

Can I stain over sealed wood?

Yes, you can stain over varnish without any issue. But staining varnished wood is different than staining untreated wood. Clean and sand the wood using fine-grit sandpaper before applying stain over varnish to remove dust, debris and to emphasize wood grain which helps to take the stain better.

Will vinegar lighten wood stain?

If you want to lighten the wood further, mop on a second application of freshly mixed oxalic acid solution. Pour a small pool of vinegar onto the wood, then spread it around with a cloth. On vertical surfaces, wipe with a cloth saturated with vinegar. Then wipe with a dry cloth and finish by rinsing with plain water.

Can I stain over stain without sanding?

You can stain over stained wood without sanding off the old finish.

Should you sand deck before staining?

Sand the Deck If you plan to stain the deck, sand the surface before application to make the wood better absorb the coating. Use an orbital sander to remove any old gloss and smooth out any rough areas on decking boards. You may need to use a sanding sponge on the railings or balustrades.

Is it better to sand or power wash a deck?

DO sand your deck before sealing. At that point, lightly sand the surface to remove splintery or fuzzy patches caused by pressure-washing the deck. A pole sander with 80-grit sandpaper will suffice; a power sander is overkill. Then seal the deck to protect from cracking, cupping, and warping.

Why did my deck stain peel?

Deck stains will generally peel for two basic reasons: over application and poor adhesion. This is simple — too much stain on the surface of the wood. If there is too much stain, it restricts the moisture from evaporating away, so peeling can occur.

How long should I wait to stain my deck after washing it?

A basic rule of thumb for DIY deck builders, homeowners, and professional contractors is that roughly 48 hours is an adequate drying time for a newly washed deck.

How do you prepare a weathered deck for staining?

Before you apply stain, make sure the surface is clean (no dust, dirt, wood fibers or grease), dry and free from mildew. When a surface is not clean, stains and other finishes have trouble sticking and may end up peeling. Confirm no rain for 24-48 hours. Thoroughly sweep the deck to remove all leaves and other debris.