As the weather warms up and the days get longer, many homeowners in Northwest Arkansas start thinking about sprucing up their outdoor living spaces. A sturdy and attractive deck is one of the most important parts of any backyard oasis. But even the most well-built deck can start to look shabby after a few years of exposure to the elements. That’s where deck refinishing comes in.
We’ll answer some of the most common questions we hear from homeowners in Northwest Arkansas about deck refinishing. We’ll cover everything from the best time of year to refinish your deck to how often you should sand and seal it. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or you prefer to hire a professional, this post will help you make informed decisions about your deck care.
Introduction to Deck Staining
Before we dive into the specifics of deck refinishing, let’s briefly go over what it involves: Deck staining is applying a protective coating to your deck’s surface to help it resist water, UV rays, and other environmental hazards. A good deck stain can also enhance the natural beauty of the wood, making your deck look new again.
Is it better to refinish a deck in the fall or spring?
The short answer is that either season can work! But there are pros and cons to each. Refinishing your deck in the fall has the advantage of cooler evening temperatures and lower humidity, which can help the stain dry more evenly. If you live in a part of Northwest Arkansas that gets a lot of rain in the summer, wait until the weather is more predictable.
On the other hand, refinishing your deck in the spring means it will be fresh for summer, and the daytime hours are longer. Just be aware that you’ll need to plan around any springtime showers and make sure the wood is fully dry before staining.
What is the best temperature to stain a deck?
The ideal temperature range for deck staining is between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Staining your deck in temperatures outside this range can lead to problems like uneven drying, bubbling, and cracking. If you pick a day that is above 80 degrees, the stain can dry too quickly and not adhere properly to the wood, which will leave you with peeling stain.
When should you not stain a deck?
There are several situations where you should avoid staining your deck. First, if the wood is wet or damp, the stain won’t penetrate the surface as it should. Wait until the wood is fully dry before starting your project. You should also avoid staining your deck in direct sunlight, as this can cause the stain to dry too quickly.
Finally, if your deck has been treated with a water repellent or sealer in the past, you may need to strip it before staining. Staining over a previous treatment can lead to adhesion issues and a blotchy appearance.
Should you stain a deck in sun or shade?
It’s best to stain your deck in a shaded area, away from direct sunlight. Staining in direct sunlight can cause the stain to dry too quickly, which can lead to uneven application and a blotchy appearance. If you must stain in sunlight, work in small sections and be sure to apply the stain evenly.
Deck Upkeep and Care
How often should you sand and seal a deck?
The frequency with which you need to sand and seal a deck depends on several factors, including the type of wood, the amount of foot traffic, and the climate in your area. In general, most decks should be sanded and sealed every 1-3 years to maintain their appearance and protect the wood from weathering.
How many coats of stain does a deck need?
The number of coats of stain needed for a deck depends on several factors, including the type of stain, the condition of the wood, and the desired appearance. In general, most decks only require one or two coats of stain, but if you’re looking for a deeper or more vibrant color, you may need to apply additional coats.
What happens if you don’t clean your deck before staining?
If you don’t clean your deck before staining, dirt, mildew, and other contaminants can prevent the stain from adhering properly to the wood. This can cause the stain to peel or flake off, leaving your deck unsightly and unprotected from the elements.
Can you clean and stain a deck in one day?
While it is technically possible to clean and stain a deck in one day, it is not recommended. The deck needs to be completely dry before applying stain, and depending on the weather conditions, this can take several hours or even overnight. Additionally, it’s important to allow adequate time for the stain to dry before you walk on or use the deck.
How long to not walk on deck after staining?
The time you should wait before walking on a freshly stained deck depends on several factors, including the type of stain, the weather conditions, and the temperature. Generally, you should wait at least 24-48 hours before walking on the deck, and even longer if possible to ensure the stain has fully dried and cured.
Finishing a New Deck
Why wait a year to stain a deck?
It is recommended to wait at least a year before staining a new deck if it was made from pressure-treated wood. This allows the wood to dry out and settle, which can improve the absorption and adhesion of the stain.
Additionally, if you apply stain too soon, it may not penetrate the wood properly, which can lead to uneven color or premature peeling.
Refinishing an Old Deck
Should I sand or strip an old deck?
Whether you should sand or strip an old deck depends on several factors, including the type of finish currently on the deck, the condition of the wood, and the amount of prep work you’re willing to do. Stripping is generally a more effective method for removing old stain or paint, but it can be messy and time-consuming. Sanding is typically faster and easier, but it may not be as effective for removing heavy layers of old finish.
Should you sand an old deck before staining?
Sanding an old deck before staining can help remove any remaining finish, smooth out rough spots, and open up the wood pores for better stain absorption. However, if the deck is in good condition and the old finish is not peeling or flaking, you can skip sanding and simply clean the deck thoroughly before applying the new stain.
Can you stain over a peeling deck?
It’s generally not recommended to stain over a peeling deck, as the new stain may not adhere properly and could result in an uneven or blotchy appearance. Instead, it’s best to remove the old stain or paint using a stripping agent or sandpaper and then clean and prepare the deck before applying the new stain.
Deck Upkeep and Care
How often should you sand and seal a deck?
The frequency with which you need to sand and seal a deck depends on several factors, including the type of wood, the amount of foot traffic, and the climate in your area. Generally, most decks should be sanded and sealed every 1-3 years to maintain their appearance and protect the wood from weathering.
How many coats of stain does a deck need?
The number of coats of stain needed for a deck depends on several factors, including the type of stain, the condition of the wood, and the desired appearance. In general, most decks only require one or two coats of stain, but if you’re looking for a deeper or more vibrant color, you may need to apply additional coats.
How long will a deck last if you don’t stain it?
If you don’t stain or seal your deck, it will likely show signs of wear and tear within a few years. The wood may become soft and show signs of rot.
The best time of year to refinish your deck or finish your new deck in Northwest Arkansas is generally in the fall or spring when the weather is mild and dry.
When it comes to applying stain, it is important to choose a day when the temperature is between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and there is no chance of rain. It is also important to properly clean your deck before staining it and to take proper care of it once the stain has been applied.
Whether refinishing an old deck or finishing a new one, Schneider Painting of Springdale, Arkansas, can help you get a long-lasting finish that will protect your deck for years.
