Wood decks are great places to relax. Woodstains don’t adhere well to damp wood and can break and flake easily. Apply the stain after it hasn’t rained for several days and the forecast predicts two consecutive days with low to average humidity between 50deg F and 90deg F. Direct sunlight could pose problems when staining directly in sunlight; choose an hour of day that allows both absorptions as well as drying before sunlight can penetrate it. If you plan to stain exposed to direct light, make sure you select an hour that allows both processes to coincide.
Prepare the Surface
To ensure proper stain adhesion, wood surfaces must be free from stains and dirt. Start by sanding any splintered areas with a mask to avoid inhaling dust particles. Sweep your deck first and use a putty knife to scrape away any dirt across the boards. Finally, use an exterior cleaner such as a high-pressure washer; however, bear in mind that some wood may take up to 3 days to dry after being exposed to this method.
If your deck was constructed prior to 2004 and is peeling, we recommend hiring a professional who can remove dust, finish, and other debris. This is because most decks built prior to 2004 were constructed from lumber pressure treated with Chromate Copper Arsenate (CCA) for anti-rot and insect control; sanding the wood releases poisonous arsenic into soil and air.
Utilize the Correct Brushes
Synthetic brushes are ideal for applying water-based stains onto wooden surfaces. Natural bristles, on the other hand, become soft as they absorb water from the finish. Do you prefer an edging roller? Look for one with a nap of less than 1/4 inch; this ensures an even coat of stain adheres to the wood without pooling.
Choose the Correct Wood Stain Type
Every stain type has its own advantages, and depending on what kind of decking is already present will affect your decision. However, solid stains have no pores in them, which prevent transparent or clear dyes from penetrating into wood pores; solids, however, can be applied over any previous stain type.”
Apply Thin Coats
If you plan to use several gallons of stain for your project, mix them thoroughly, so the color is consistent. Use long, even strokes when staining three or two boards simultaneously with solid stains in thin coats and semi-transparent stains or clear sealers in thinner ones; this prevents puddles from penetrating into the wood, leading to staining brittleness after drying. Whichever stain type you select, ensure you apply two coats, so there are no missed spots and that there’s an even finish.
