QA

Quick Answer: When To Apply Deck Stain

That means staining as soon as possible after your deck is complete to prevent dust and dirt from accumulating on the surface of your deck. Apply stain when the temps are between 50 and 90 degrees, and avoid staining in direct sunlight if possible. Sun dries out stain quickly and can create uneven color or brush marks.

What is the best time to stain a deck?

The best time to stain your deck is either the spring or the fall. If you stain your deck in the summer, make sure you do it out of the direct sunlight. Applying a deck stain in direct sun will cause the stain to dry to quickly and can result in premature stain failure.

Can you stain a deck if it rains the next day?

It is best to never stain any exterior wood when inclement weather is forecasted, especially rain. Most deck stain brands will warn against the application of their product within 12-24 hours of rain being forecast. Some stains can handle rain shortly after being applied better than others.

What happens if I stain my deck too early?

Staining too soon can lead to the stain not being absorbed by the wood and result in a patchy and failed upgrade for your deck. Make sure the wood has dropped all of the excess moisture before trying to apply stain. Test to make sure that water is absorbed by the wood which ensures this drying process is done.

When should you not stain a deck?

Apply stain when the temps are between 50 and 90 degrees, and avoid staining in direct sunlight if possible. Sun dries out stain quickly and can create uneven color or brush marks. Check the weather forecast to make sure you have several dry days ahead.

What if it rains 12 hours after staining deck?

If it rains within 48 hours after you apply the stain, the water will soak into the wood pores and try to displace the stain. If it rains right after you apply the stain, the stain will peel and flake off. If your stain has been drying for close to 48 hours, this may not happen.

How many dry days do you need to stain a deck?

New wooden decks should always receive a coat of paint or stain. Generally, all new decks should dry out for at least 30 days before stain or paint is applied. Although a finish can be applied immediately after construction, more work is involved, so it’s best to let the wood fully dry before finishing.

Can you use a roller to stain a deck?

A paint roller can be used to roll stain on. A wide 18-inch roller may work well for staining a few fence or deck boards at a time but a mop or stain pad will hold more stain lessening the amount of time you have to dip back into the stain bucket.

Should you pressure wash deck before staining?

There is a common misconception that just pressure washing a deck prior to staining is all you need to do in order to prep your deck for stain. Pressure washing can help, but if you want your stain to last, using a good deck cleaner and brightener on the deck prior to pressure washing will provide you the best result.

What temperature should it be to stain a deck?

Helpful Stain Application Tips Apply stain only at the proper temperature. For most stains, 70 degrees Fahrenheit is the optimum, with the safety range from 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

How many coats of stain should you put on a deck?

The general rule of thumb is to apply only as much deck stain as the wood can absorb. Typically this will be 2 coats, unless your dealing with extremely dense hardwoods which may only be able to absorb 1 coat of wood stain.

What temperature should you stain a new deck?

If you’re staining your deck in the spring or fall, wait for a day with highs above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, make sure freezing temperatures aren’t in the forecast for that night. If it drops below 32 degrees Fahrenheit before the stain has thoroughly dried, it can hinder the curing process.

Can you stain a deck over multiple days?

Ultimately you want two set aside at least two days. If you need to power wash your deck or replace any boards it may take you an extra day or two. It is ideal to stain your deck in a season that experiences mild temperatures. The direct sunlight can cause the deck to dry too quickly which will leave water marks.

Do I need to sand new deck before staining?

Do I need to sand the deck before staining? The answer to this is “it depends.” You won’t hurt the deck by applying a light sanding. Sanding is more for the feel of the deck than to prepare it to accept a new stain.

Should I stain deck boards before install?

As before, we recommend you do not stain new wood prior to installation. Instead, wait 3+ months after installation before staining new wood surfaces. This will allow the wood to weather, creating an ideal porous surface that will hold the stain better.

How do I know if my deck is dry enough to stain?

Another way of checking if your wood is ready for stain is to pour a little water on the wood. If the water beads up, the lumber still too wet to be stained or painted. If the water is absorbed into the wood easily, it’s ready to be sealed or stained.

How long after rain Can I stain deck?

Remember, no rain 24 hours before you apply stain and no rain 24 hours after the staining project. Assuming the deck is dry and thirsty for stain, it’s time to make your deck amazing. When applying stain, a pad, brush, roller, or rag can be used to apply the stain.

How long does deck stain need to dry before second coat?

If a second coat is required, wait 4 hours between applications. Depending on temperature and humidity, allow 24 – 48 hours of dry time before using your beautifully restored deck or porch.

Why is my deck sticky after staining?

“A sticky or tacky deck is usually due to over-application or failing to wipe the excess stain from the surface of the wood. Rinse thoroughly with a garden hose and spray nozzle, and let the wood dry. This removes any tackiness or residue.”Aug 31, 2011.

What is the best way to apply decking stain?

Deck stains can be applied in several different ways. Using a pump-up garden sprayer and roller are two popular methods. Regardless of how you apply your wood stain, keep a paint brush at hand. A paint brush will work the stain deep in to the pores of a board.

What is the best way to apply wood stain?

The basic rule for getting good results with any stain is to apply a wet coat and wipe off the excess before it dries. You can use any tool – rag, brush, paint pad, roller or spray gun – to apply the stain. You can even dip the object into stain or pour the stain onto the wood and spread it around.