Deck Staining 101
Spring weather is upon us, and with it, the need to work on our exteriors. Get more use out of your backyard this spring after a fresh stain! We talk process, tips, and what to avoid below:
- MDF's professional advice is to start any DIY exterior painting or staining job with a thorough pressure wash. We realize everyone may not have access to a pressure washer, so sanding is another option. Sanding strips off any layers of dirt and existing sealants while resurfacing any splinters or damaged areas. Work in the direction of the grain for the best results. The grit will depend on the type of wood that is on your deck.
- Adding a primer before applying any new stain seems like an easy step to skip, but it is important! Without it, tannin bleeding from the knots in wood could set in. If you notice any tan, brown, or yellow spots on your deck, let the primer cure for 3-5 days. If you notice them after your new stain is applied, sand away the discoloration, and add more product. If the bleeding is severe, adding a second coat of primer is recommended.
- Deck stains come in clear, translucent, semi-transparent, and solid finishes. If you like the color of your wood or the unique patterns in the grain, using clear, translucent, or semi-transparent will allow that to be visible. Translucent, semi-transparent, and solid sheens will add color to the deck.
Sherwin Williams offers their Woodscapes collection, and Benjamin Moore has their Arborcoat line for staining wooden surfaces. MDF Painting offers free estimates for deck staining! If you're looking for inspiration on what colors and finishes will look best on your deck, check out our Pinterest page! We also have extensive photos of our previous deck staining projects throughout our social media and website.
https://www.pinterest.com/mdfpainting/
