While a stained deck looks good and withstands the elements, it needs proper care and maintenance to preserve its appearance and extend its lifespan. Usually, cleaning your deck and recoating it every couple of years is all it takes to keep it looking its best for years to come. Below we will explain how to clean your stained deck as well as share some recoating tips.
How to Clean Your Stained Deck
Your deck can be an attractive place for natural contaminants like dirt, mold, moss, and mildew. If not cleaned periodically, these contaminants can settle on your deck’s surface, making it look unappealing and causing real damage to the wood. Here’s how to clean it properly:
- Debris removal – Remove any furniture or objects that can be taken off your deck. Then thoroughly sweep the deck with a broom to remove dirt or debris. Ensure you use a soft-bristled broom to avoid any scratches.
- Inspection – Thoroughly inspect for any loose, broken, or damaged parts that need repair and fix the same to avoid future issues.
- Deck Cleaning – Use an oxygenated deck cleaner that’s right for your deck stain. Follow the instructions on the package so you can apply it evenly across your deck. Use a sprayer or a brush to avoid drips and blobs. Scrub tough spots with a stiff broom or a brush. Avoid using a wired broom to prevent any damage to the wood. Let it sit for a few minutes as mentioned in the written instructions.
- Rinsing – Rinse the deck with care while ensuring that the solution gets washed off completely. Use a garden hose or a pressure washer on a low setting so that you don’t damage the wood.
- Drying – This process may take 24 to 48 hours for the deck to dry completely.
Recoating Your Stained Deck
Staining your deck is advised if you see color fading or paint stripping off your deck. It is important to clean and repair the deck before re-staining it. The usual rule is to re-stain it every 2 to 3 years. Here’s all that you need to know about re-staining your deck:
- Check for and wait for the right weather conditions. Recoat your deck when the weather is dry and overcast with temperatures between 500 to 900 F.
- Choose the right stain. Ensure that your deck stain is compatible with the existing one unless you want to change it entirely.
- Sanding your deck – You may need to sand your deck if you:
- have widespread peeling or flaking
- plan to change the stain color to a lighter shade, or
- notice that the wood surface is rough, weathered, or damaged
- Prepare your stain correctly. Stir the staining solution well, especially if using multiple cans, to ensure an even color.
- Apply the stain in even coats. Use a good quality deck roller, brush, or applicator to apply the stain. Remember, solid stains need two coats of paint whereas, semi-solid, transparent, or clear stains need just one coat of paint.
- Wipe off excess stain. If the paint pools at the surface, wipe it with a clean cloth.
- Let it dry properly. It may take 24 to 48 hours for the stain to dry completely.
If you need help to clean or re-stain your deck, get in touch with deck and wood restoration experts who can help. At Mastercraft Painting and Finishes, our licensed and trained crew will ensure that your deck not only looks good but stays in great condition for many years ahead.
Maximize savings and time on deck and wood repairs by hiring the experts at Mastercraft Painting and Finishes for your home in Montgomery & Bucks County, PA. Contact us at 267-496-5307 or online for a FREE estimate.