The most common times to stain your deck are spring and fall. The hot summer sun can cause the stain to dry out too quickly and peel. Springtime can also be difficult if your deck boards are still damp. If the boards are still damp, oil-based stains won’t work well. Choose a water-based stain instead. It’s much safer, too. Here’s why:
If your deck is made of cedar
If your deck staining is made of cedar, a good option to protect it from weather is to apply a stain. There are hundreds of different kinds of cedar deck stains available for both indoor and outdoor use. While cedar is naturally weather-resistant, it still needs some protection from the elements. A stain can help enhance the wood’s natural beauty and cover blemishes.
If your deck is made of cedar, allow it to weather for at least three months before applying a stain. This time frame varies according to climate and sunlight. Decks in sunny areas will dry out faster than those in rainy ones. Pressure-treated lumber needs more time to dry out than cedar, because it has been treated with a lot of moisture. For that reason, it is important to allow your deck to dry completely before staining it.
Depending on the condition of your cedar deck
Depending on the condition of your cedar deck, it might be necessary to sand it before applying the stain. Cedar boards undergo a planning process at the mill, which leaves an oily surface that prevents the wood stain from penetrating them properly. To avoid this problem, sanding is essential. In addition to sanding, the sanding process will remove loose wood fibers and also prepare the wood for the new stain.
Before applying the new stain or sealant, you must first remove the old one. Old sealant may prevent the new one from being absorbed by the wood. Before you begin, be sure to sand the new deck and remove the old sealant. Remember that a sealant is not the same as a stain; it doesn’t protect the wood from moisture and UV rays.
If you’re considering staining your deck, be sure to prep it before applying the stain. A 6-inch random orbit sander will work well. Another option is to sand the wood with an 80-grit abrasive. If you’re doing it by hand, use an 80-grit abrasive to prepare the surface for the stain.
If it’s made of cedar
Whether your deck is made of new or old wood, there are many ways to improve the look and feel of the space. Staining a cedar deck will increase the longevity of the deck while enhancing its natural beauty. It will also make the space more comfortable and inviting, especially if you line it with citronella candles. You can also purchase outdoor furniture with light colors or prints for added appeal. A dark stain can make the space look drab, so you may want to go with a semi-transparent stain.
The easiest way to stain a cedar deck is with a garden sprayer and car wash brush. Another option is to use an airless sprayer. After spraying, back-brush the area to break surface tension and make sure the stain is evenly distributed. You can also use a regular paint brush to stain edges and trim. You should also apply stain in the direction of the grain, paying special attention to joints, edges, and seams.
For a cleaner that will remove iron or brown-black tannin stains, you can use oxalic acid. This acid is both a brightener and cleaner. However, it’s only effective on cedar and redwood. It’s highly toxic, so be sure to wear protective gear when working with it. If you do decide to stain your deck, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before beginning.
Conclusion
When staining a cedar deck, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. You’ll need at least a few days of dry weather between each application. And, remember that the drying time depends on the temperature and humidity. Avoid using oil stains, as these can make you ill for a week. For the best results, always read the manufacturer’s instructions. However, do remember that a cedar deck will require some time to dry.
