Don’t skimp on the cleaning!
Preparation is the most important factor when staining a deck or staining a fence. An older deck or fence may require a rotating pressure washing process to remove the thin layer of rotten wood on the surface. Always clean a brand new deck or fence as well! Most decks and fences can be cleaned with a specialized cleaner called TSP (trisodium phosphate). Heavier mold or mildewed spots should be treated with a diluted bleach solution. Thoroughly rinse everything down to ensure maximum absorption and adhesion.
Should you use water-based or oil-based deck stain?
That all depends on several factors. Oil-based deck stain will provide a better initial waterproofing. It can usually be re-coated multiple times through the years without having to use a chemical stain stripper. The drawback to oil-based deck stain is that it is an organic compound and will require cleaning and re-staining more often as mold and mildew feed on it, especially in low sunlight exposure situations. Oil-based stain will also blend easier during the application process, but does require wiping off excess rather quickly to prevent very long dry times. Water-based stains will usually last longer than oil-based stains, however they do not penetrate as far into the wood. The result is more of a waterproof coating on the surface that will have to be removed before another water-based coat of stain can be applied in the coming years. Water-based stain is also more mold and mildew resistant, as it is not an organic compound. Application of water-based stains requires more back brushing, but excess does not have to be wiped off.
Work boards with the grain.
In order to prevent stain lines from showing up after completion, never brush or roll across the grain. Make sure to get a good quality deck staining or fence staining brush to work stain between all the boards and crevices to maximize the waterproofing feature of the stain
Give your deck time to dry before you put furniture back on it.
Most manufacturers recommend to wait at least 3-5 days before furniture is placed on a newly stained deck, but it never hurts to give it a few more days.
Stay hydrated as you work.
Deck staining and fence staining is hard and tedious work. It’s mostly done in the hot months, and with almost no shade around. Stay hydrated and be careful in the heat!