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If properly maintained, the wood can last decades. As a contractor and decking specialist, I’ve seen some cedar decking last more than 50 years. But the key to that longevity is maintenance. You need to stain it every one to three years to keep it looking its best.
How long should you wait to stain cedar?
We completely agree. You don’t want to incur any chipping or pealing or cracking so staining within a 2-3 month period is best. Cedar Deck Association adds a great quote on finishing exter cedar decks: “Decks should never be allowed to weather before finishing.
Should I stain my new cedar deck?
A: Need some wood staining advice? Cedar wood makes for a beautiful deck surface, but it won’t stay that way if it isn’t protected. Finishing off your newly-installed cedar deck with a sealant or wood stain will help to prolong the life, beauty, and appeal of the deck for years to come.
When Should I seal my new cedar deck?
DO wait 30 days before sealing a new deck. If it beads up, the wood is still too wet to seal, but if the water is absorbed, it’s ready to seal. Be sure to apply sealant as soon as the wood is ready; leaving the deck exposed any longer increases the likelihood of both ultraviolet (UV) and moisture damage.
What month should you stain your 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.
Should I stain cedar 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.
What temperature should it be to stain a 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.
Should you stain or seal cedar?
Cedar offers a durable option for exterior and interior building projects with natural resistance to rot and decay, so a protective finish is optional. If you’re using cedar for an outdoor project, give it a light seal coat to guard against moisture and sunlight.
Should cedar deck be sealed?
Sealing your deck will keep it safe from water damage, rot, and insects. Every two to three years, you will want to reseal and stain your cedar deck. Some deck sealants include a stain so you can do both tasks with one product.
What stain looks good on cedar?
Stains for Cedar Wood Natural or Clear Wood Stain. Semi-Transparent Wood Stain. Semi-Opaque Wood Stain. Opaque Wood Stain. Best Overall: READY SEAL Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood. Premium Choice: DEFY Stain for Cedar. Most Cost-Effective: THOMPSON’S WATERSEAL Waterproofing Stain.
Can you leave cedar untreated?
If you leave cedar wood untreated, it will not succumb to the devastating effects of mold, rot and insect damage. However, it will lose its typically golden-brown color. However, even with the proper maintenance, cedar will eventually succumb to fading—usually after about 10 years—and lose its natural tone for good.
How long should you wait before staining a new deck?
Depending on the wood and drying conditions, you should usually wait 4 to 8 weeks after installation before staining a deck.
Is it better to stain or seal a deck?
Sealing a deck is best for cedar, teak, mahogany, or other quality woods as it enhances the wood grain and natural color. Staining a deck protects the wood from mold, mildew, moisture, and rot, and UV rays and sun damage.
What happens if you stain 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.
Is it too late to stain my deck?
Fall is the perfect time to take on the task of staining your deck. Not only will you not roast in the sweltering summer temperatures, but the cooler fall weather is ideal for staining. Most deck stains recommend that they be used when outdoor temperatures are above 50 and below 90.
What happens if you stain your deck and it rains?
Splotchy Appearance 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. This will result in a splotchy surface rather than an even tone. If it rains right after you apply the stain, the stain will peel and flake off.
How do you prepare a cedar deck for staining?
How to Prepare a Cedar Deck for Stain Sand the deck surface lightly with a fine-grit sandpaper and an electric sander. Inspect the deck thoroughly for warped boards or screws that are sticking up. Sweep the deck to remove dust, dirt and sawdust. Spray the deck down with water from a garden hose.
How many coats of stain do 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.
How do you prepare cedar for staining?
Prepare your cedar siding by washing it with soapy water to remove any dirt or dust (if any has accumulated). After you have washed it, wait for it to dry before applying any stain to the cedar.
