Best Way to Prepare to Stain a Deck

Nothing compares to an afternoon with your family in the backyard. Decks are a cherished feature of a home to host backyard barbecues and fun get-togethers. A properly prepared new deck stain is the foundation for your summer memories. 

At Brush & Roll Painting in Omaha, NE, we take the time to do detailed prep work that will help ensure your stain lasts as long as possible.

In this article, we will discuss the mandatory steps it takes for the best deck staining. By reading this, you should have a better idea of what a thorough prep work process is. This will come in handy while you are looking for the best company to re-stain your deck. 

Remove everything from the deck

Everything on the deck will need to be removed in order to re-stain all parts of the wood. The homeowner typically does this before a team begins the project.

While moving furniture or large items, it is important to lift rather than drag the items. On delicate wood, dragging furniture might gauge the boards, causing more areas to be repaired.

It’s a trickle effect. When wood is damaged, it is prone to further damage by water. Water damage is just the beginning of popped nails or mold and mildew stains.

This is also why it is necessary to remove snow off of decks or wood during the cold winter months.

Scrub the deck

A new deck stain starts with a clean slate. A thorough power wash of the deck will allow for the best finished results. This will help scrub away the particles that make your deck look old and worn, including dirt, algae, and mildew stains. This will make it easier for the team to see any areas of concern.

There are several cleaners available, depending on your needs. They include; deck cleaners, mildew removers, and wood brighteners. 

Your refinisher will know what chemical is best used for your deck after the first wash is completed.

Repair boards

Next, an inspection of any problem areas will be necessary. Typical issues that tend to happen in the Midwest include cracked or curling boards, rotting wood, and popped nails or screws. An average-sized deck will typically have a half to full days worth of repairs and sanding to get it best prepared for the next step. 

This part of the process is key to extending the life of not only the stain but also the deck itself. Covering up problem areas with a new stain is only going to make matters worse in the long run. 

Prepare to enjoy your deck

Summer memories in the backyard come easily, so choosing the best company to re-stain your deck should as well. While considering your options, find a company that has a thorough prep work process and uses high-quality materials on top.

At Brush & Roll Painting in Omaha, NE, we know our detailed prep process is not every company's routine. We value our customers and their projects, so we strive for high-quality and a great experience each and every time. 

Next, learn about some ways to extend the life of your deck. Wood on decks can be delicate, so it is important to learn how to maintain a cleaning routine and know key things to remember.