You’ve likely seen a deck that used to look beautiful but now appears gray, splintered, or patchy from peeling stain. Maybe that deck is yours. And while it might be tempting to call the first company that pops up online and get a quote, rushing the process can cost you more in the long run, whether it’s a stain that fades after one season or a crew that doesn’t properly prep the wood.
At Brush & Roll Painting, we’ve worked on hundreds of decks across Omaha and have seen the full range of what can go right—or wrong—depending on who you hire.
That’s why we put together this article. By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly what to ask before hiring a painter or staining crew for your deck, fence, or pergola project. You'll be able to spot the difference between someone who will do the job right and someone who might cut corners.
Click here to watch a video on Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Painter
Questions To Ask a Painter About a Deck Staining Project
1. What prep work will be done before staining?
Staining without proper preparation is like painting over dust, it won’t last. Ask if they plan to power wash, sand, and repair boards and popped nails. Most painters don’t sand wooden decks. However, sanding decks is important because it opens the wood grain and ensures the stain can absorb properly. Prep is where most failures start, so don’t skip this question.
2. What kind of stain will you use?
Not all stains are created equal. Ask whether they’re using a water-based or oil-based stain, and whether it’s a solid, semi-transparent, or clear finish. Each has pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your wood type, sun exposure, and aesthetic goals.
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3. How will the stain be applied?
The way stain is applied can make a huge difference in how long it lasts and how evenly it looks. Ask if they plan to spray and then back brush the stain into the wood, this is a best practice that helps the product penetrate and coat every surface.
Simply spraying and walking away isn’t enough. A quality crew will take the time to work the stain into the grain, especially on older or rougher wood. If they promise a fast single coat without mentioning how it’s applied, that’s a red flag.
4. What will you do if the forecast changes?
Weather matters, and stain needs time to dry. So what happens if it rains unexpectedly? A responsible company will track forecasts and delay work if needed, rather than push forward and risk a ruined finish.
Questions About the Deck Staining Quote
5. Is this quote firm, or could the price change?
Some companies give low estimates and then surprise you with “unexpected” costs once the work begins. Ask if the quote is final or if there are conditions that could change the price, like extra prep or repairs they may discover.
6. What’s included in this price?
Does the quote cover labor, materials, prep, and cleanup? Some painters leave out key services (like sanding or powerwashing steps) to make the quote lower. You should clarify this, so you’re comparing apples to apples if you're getting multiple quotes.
Questions About the Painter or Painting Company
7. Who will actually be doing the staining?
Is it a team of trained employees, or are they subcontractors hired per project? At Brush & Roll Painting, our own crew does the work, people we’ve trained and trust. Knowing who will be at your home matters.
8. Do you carry insurance and workers’ compensation?
Accidents can happen, especially on multi-level decks or around large power tools. Make sure the company has general liability insurance and workers’ comp, so you aren’t stuck if something goes wrong.
9. How will communication work before and during the project?
Will someone call you the day before they start? Will they update you if weather delays the schedule? It’s frustrating to be left in the dark. Ask how they’ll keep you in the loop throughout the job.
10. Can you show photos of similar past work?
Deck and fence staining takes skill, especially with older wood, varying surfaces, and tricky angles. Ask for examples of similar projects they’ve completed so you can feel confident in their capabilities.
11. How long have you been staining decks in Omaha?
Local experience counts. Painters familiar with Omaha weather patterns know when to stain, what products last through the freeze-thaw cycle, and how to deal with the region’s humidity. A company that’s been around for years likely has a solid reputation and won’t disappear after the job is done.
Deck Staining in Omaha, NE
In the past, many homeowners have had bad experiences with deck staining crews who rush through jobs, skip important prep, or apply the wrong products. That leads to frustration, wasted money, and a deck that looks worse in six months than it did before.
Now that you’ve read this guide, you know the most important questions to ask before you hire a painter or staining crew. You’re no longer in the dark, and you can confidently choose someone who will do the job right the first time.
Looking ahead, a well-stained deck, fence, or pergola doesn’t just look better, it lasts longer and protects your investment. Whether you’re hosting summer cookouts or enjoying your morning coffee outside, your outdoor space should be something you’re proud of.
At Brush & Roll Painting, we’ve been helping Omaha homeowners protect and refresh their decks, fences, and pergolas since 1996. We don’t cut corners, we use high-quality stains, take time with prep, and apply products the right way so your outdoor spaces last longer and look better.
If you're ready to get your project started, we’d be happy to provide a detailed, no-pressure quote. Let’s make your outdoor woodwork something you’re proud to show off. Reach out today and let’s talk about what you need.
If you're ready to move forward but want to make sure you hire the right professional, download our free guide to hiring a painter. It’s full of helpful tips that will make the entire process smoother and more stress-free from start to finish.
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